First Impressions Matter: The Importance of a Strong Résumé

My Career Readiness Chat with Dr. Zeba Shahbaaz 
By Dajha Wardlow
LLP Social Media Intern

Me with Dr. Zeba Shahbaaz

Preparing for a career after college can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to creating a résumé that truly stands out. Throughout the semester, students have the opportunity to gain valuable advice from Dr. Zeba Shahbaaz, the Career Readiness Chair for the Department of Languages, Literature, and Philosophy.  She provides practical tips to LLP students on how to build a strong résumé that will make a lasting impression on potential employers.

I sat down with Dr. Shahbaaz’s in her office to discuss the importance of presenting experience, skills, and achievements in a clear and confident way. Many students think a résumé is simply a document listing past jobs or activities, which could lead to a missed opportunity.  "It should be seen as a personal marketing tool that tells the story of what a student brings to the table," she explained.

Dr. Shahbaaz emphasized that a strong résumé should be organized, easy to read, and tailored to the intended job or opportunity. Instead of listing general responsibilities, students should highlight accomplishments, leadership experiences, and measurable results whenever possible. This helps employers quickly understand what makes a candidate unique and qualified.

Beyond formatting and content, Dr. Shahbaaz also spoke about the human side of professional success. She reminded students that the way they interact with others can leave a lasting impact. 

“People will forget what you said and what you did but they will never forget how you made them feel,” she said.  This message highlighted the importance of professionalism, confidence, and strong communication skills when entering the workforce.

The conversation served as a reminder that a résumé is often the first step in making a strong impression. A well-prepared résumé not only showcases qualifications but also reflects the effort and professionalism of the person behind it. By taking the time to carefully craft and revise their résumés, students can better position themselves for internships, jobs, and future career opportunities

Learn more by listening to my chat with Dr. Zeba Shahbaaz.