Get Hired

Get Hired: Science + Health

For complete information on job search strategies, resumes, cover letters, LinkedIn, interviews, and more, review our starter tips to Get Hired in all careers as well as the specialized tips on this page.

Developing a Curriculum Vitae

Just like a resume, a curriculum vitae (CV) is a document that showcases your acquired skills and experiences for the professional world. How this differs, however, is the length and audience; a CV will be between two to six pages whereas a resume will only be one page long. Resumes are often used when applying to industry positions that are not research related, while CVs are used to apply to academic and research related positions. Thus CVs allow you to more deeply elaborate on your research, conference presentations, volunteerism, teaching, awards, publications and other experiences within the Science + Health realm.

When deciding between using a resume or a CV, consider the purpose of the document as well as what message you would like to convey. With the length and limitations of a resume, there will often be a focus of task and duties with a measurable component. When developing your CV, the spacing is more forgiving to include the details of academic based experiences which include, but are not limited to, objectives of the project, methodologies, processes, and teaching.

To get started on your CV, it is a good idea to refer to your resume. If you have experiences on there which will be relevant to your potential positions, incorporate them into sections on your CV. Make sure to list your relevant courses, as this will let the employers know what background knowledge you can contribute to the position. In addition, include class and research projects that are relevant to the experience you are applying for. Any experience that exhibits that you have the knowledge and skills needed to uphold the position is worthy of incorporation.

Job Search Strategies

Oftentimes, finding a job in the Science + Health fields before obtaining your graduate degree is difficult, as many of these positions require extra expertise in the area. However, there are options available as you progress in your undergraduate career. If you are interested in pursuing graduate studies, we recommend searching for paid research positions. Researchers from different universities frequently post RA positions available to students outside of their campus. Take a look at universities in your area for summer internships or full-time Lab Coordinator or Research Assistant positions, and remember that your UCSB background will provide those researchers with new perspectives and additional background knowledge. 

Also keep in mind that there are less blatant careers in which your degree is essential. For example, if you are interested in public health, check out Direct Relief in Goleta. Their marketing and event coordinating teams prefer professionals to have background knowledge in the health field. In addition, Apeel Sciences often looks for interns and professionals with expertise in Biology, Chemistry, Engineering, and Material Science. While you search for experience, consider your skills and interests outside of the Science + Health field, and search for positions that bridge the two worlds together. For further information in regards to conducting a job search during and after your time at UCSB, visit our Job Search Strategies page.

Interviews

In essence, an interview is a chance for you and an employer to get to know each other on a professional level. In other words, while they ask you questions that may seem like a test, they are trying to visualize you in their workspace and around their colleagues. This is why it is important to research beforehand; if you understand their organization, you can better explain to them why you are a beneficial candidate. 

Since you have already submitted an impressive resume/CV, it is time for you to expand on those experiences as well as what is not blatantly outlined on there:

• Interpersonal skills (i.e.: teamwork, communication, ability to teach and learn)
• Your passions for this field
• Background knowledge
• Critical thinking capabilities
• Research methodology and environments

Once you have researched the organization and determined what experiences and skills you hope to expand on, practice! The day of your interview should not be the first time you verbalize your experiences. Make sure to practice so that your knowledge and capabilities are communicated as clearly as possible. When you do this, also reiterate relevant skills so that the interviewer is reminded of all of your qualifications. The more you advocate for yourself, the easier it will be for them to picture you in their workplace.

Learn More 

To fully prepare for your interview, review our Interviews and Offers page.