Career Guide | Engineering Career Resource Center

CAREER

GUIDE

Engineering Career Resource Center

230 Chrysler Center

career.engin.umich.edu 3

Engineering Career Resource Center

230 Chrysler Center

2121 Bonisteel Boulevard

Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-2092

career.engin.umich.edu

General Questions:

(734) 647-7160

[email protected]

INTERVIEWS

RESUMES, CVs AND

COVER LETTERS

STUDENT SERVICES

GRADUATE

SCHOOL

EVALUATING

OFFERS

JOB SEARCH

CONTENTS

4 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

STUDENT SERVICES

Our Commitment

The Engineering Career Resource Center (ECRC) supports

College of Engineering students in their career exploration

and job search process. We oer comprehensive career

development services to support our students’ successful

transition from campus to career. We are passionate about

providing excellence, innovation, and integrity through our

services and relationships.

Our Expertise

We encourage you to pursue activities and organizations that

interest you during your time at Michigan. These experiences

will help you develop skills that will prepare you for your future

career. Throughout your exploration, we will help you reﬂect on

your successes and challenges and teach you to communicate

them in a meaningful way to recruiters, researchers, and others

with whom you would like work!

Your Responsibility

All students who engage in recruiting activities are

bound by the ECRC Job Search Code of Ethics, which

asks that you:

• Act in good faith

• Honor your commitments

• Preserve your integrity and ours

• Show respect and concern for employers in the

process

• Discontinue interviewing once you have accepted

an oer

Be sure you read it carefully and understand its intent

before you check the box.

career.engin.umich.edu/career/job-search-policies

Learn About Exciting Careers

• Networking Events

• Oce Hours

• Career Fairs

• Job Postings (Engineering Careers, by 12twenty)

– Get to know company reps (often alumni)

– Learn about interesting companies

– Ask questions about jobs that interest you

– Read job postings to understand requirements

Get ECRC Advice and Expertise

• Meet with a Career Advisor

• Connect with a Peer Advisor

• Attend an ECRC workshop

– Learn employer expectations for successful

candidates

– Discover best practices for demonstrating your

value in person (networking events, interviews)

and in writing (resume, cover letter, email)

– Find job leads and networking tips

– Pursue activities that help you develop core skills

Achieve Success in Your Search

• Make a positive impression

• Get the interview

• Land the job

• Evaluate oers

– Deliver a memorable elevator pitch

– Submit targeted resume that connects YOU

to the JOB

– Demonstrate your interest in and ability to

perform the job

Invest in your career

development by:

EXPLORING

opportunities

PREPARING

for the job search

CONNECTING

with people

EXPLORE

PREPARE

CONNECT

career.engin.umich.edu 5

WHAT'S YOUR CAREER PATH

Everyone has a unique career path. As your journey begins, focus on YOUR individual career trajectory. Below are some

recommendations on how to eectively utilize the ECRC’s resources during your time as a Michigan Engineering student, as well as a

general recruiting timeline for fall and winter semesters.

How to Utilize the ECRC

Beginning Your Career Search

• Research a variety of industries, companies, and

positions to explore potential interests.

• Seek out informational interviews with professionals.

See page 34.

• Attend ECRC workshops on a variety of topics: Introduction

to Resume Writing, Strategies for Career Fair Success, and

Interview Preparation Workshop.

• Participate in Engineering Career Fairs to learn more

about the recruitment process.

• Schedule career advising appointments to learn about

the ECRC and job search strategies.

Seeking Your First Position

• Prepare and practice your elevator pitch. See page 31.

• Schedule ECRC career advising appointments to

review your application materials.

• Apply to positions on Engineering Careers, by

12twenty and company websites.

• Attend recruitment events to engage with employers

and learn more about speciﬁc positions.

Preparing for the Interview

• Research the company’s annual reports, ﬁnancial

outlook, and funding priorities; mission, values, and vision;

history; locations; current challenges and opportunities;

industry and industry challenges; competitors, etc.

• Prepare answers to common interview questions.

See page 43.

• Schedule a mock interview and/or interview preparation

advising appointment with an ECRC Career Advisor.

• Send a “thank-you email” within 24 hours of the

conclusion of the interview. See page 46.

Consider Job Oers

• Learn about a company’s culture and consider whether

it is a good ﬁt for you. See page 45.

• Research your oered salary and beneﬁts package to see

if it is in line with industry standards. See page 48.

• Attend an Evaluating Oers advising appointment

• Read the ECRC’s Job Search Policies:

career.engin.umich.edu/career/job-search-policies

STUDENT SERVICES

RECRUITING TIMELINE

SEPTEMBER

Peak volume for on-campus

recruiting events:

• Attend Fall Engineering

Career Fairs

• Attend Networking and

Career Development

Events

• Attend Career

Engagement

Opportunities

• Continue to apply for

positions

• Schedule Interviews if

invited

NOVEMBER

Reduced recruiting activity:

• Continue to apply for

positions

• Recommended decision

deadline to accept/

decline job offers:

November 30th

JANUARY–FEBRUARY

High volume for recruiting

events:

• Attend Winter

Engineering Career Fair

• Attend Networking and

Career Development

Events

• Attend Career

Engagement Opportunities

• Continue to apply for

positions

• Schedule Interviews if

invited

LATE AUGUST

Recruitment activity begins:

• Schedule an ECRC career

advising appointment

to prepare for the

recruitment season

• Attend ECRC Networking

and Career Development

Events

• Apply for positions posted

in Engineering Careers,

by 12twenty and company

websites

OCTOBER

High-volume recruiting

activity continues

• Attend Networking and

Career Development

Events

• Attend Career

Engagement Opportunities

• Continue to apply for

positions

• Schedule Interviews

if invited

DECEMBER

No recruiting activities

• Continue to apply

for positions through

Engineering Careers, by

12twenty and company

websites

MARCH–APRIL

Recruiting continues,

typically for ‘just-in-time’

hiring

Documents

Upload documents under the

Application Materials section of

your Proﬁle for easy access when

applying to full-time, internship, or

co-op opportunities.

• Resumes

• Cover Letters

• Copy of Your Transcript

Resource Library

ECRC resources for

students are included

in this section and

arranged by topic. Use

the Resource Library to

ﬁnd information on all

career related topics,

along with Major

Information Sheets

and company lists from

previous events.

Resume Books

Resume books help maximize your visibility with employers. Students are encouraged to regularly search and apply to

job postings of interest, in addition to opting in to resume books, since access to resume books is limited to employers

participating in the ECRC Corporate Partner Program and special events.

Events

Browse the Events section to

ﬁnd out about upcoming events

including:

• Career Fairs

• Networking Events

• Career Workshops

• CoE Internship/Co-op Seminars

• Career Events hosted by

Employers and Student

Organizations

Career Advising Appointments

Schedule a Career Advising Appointment

by selecting Appointments on the navigation

menu.

• Introduction to the ECRC

• Resume/CV Review

• Cover Letter Review

• Job Search Strategies

• Interview/Career Fair Preparation

• Evaluating Oers

• General Career Advising

Job Postings & Interviews

Utilize this section to search for full-time, internship, & co-op

opportunities.

• Utilize ﬁlters to meet your search criteria, such as City or

Type of Job

• Be sure to follow the Application Methods instructions

• Search for companies of interest in the Employers tab

6 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

STUDENT SERVICES

GETTING STARTED

Engineering Careers, by 12twenty is the career portal for all College

of Engineering and computer science and data science students. This

portal provides students with access to the highlighted features below,

review the 12twenty Student Toolkit at https://career.engin.umich.

edu/12twentyToolkit for additional details.

career.engin.umich.edu 7

STUDENT SERVICES

WHICH CAREER PORTAL IS RIGHT FOR ME?

Handshake

Students from all U-M schools and colleges are

able to take advantage of the University Career

Center's (UCC's) resources. UCC connects

students with employers interested in recruiting

from a range of academic areas for their positions.

As a U-M student it is important to leverage all

of your resources. Handshake is UCC's online

platform for ﬁnding jobs and internships and for

connecting with employers and sta.

Find opportunities to connect with employers:

• Jobs and internships in ﬁelds within and

beyond engineering (for example: consulting,

ﬁnance, environment, government, nonproﬁt)

• Employer-sponsored events such as recruiting

information sessions, webinars, or special on-

site employer visits

Find UCC Resources:

• All UCC-sponsored events including Employer

Challenges, Immersion trips, Internship Labs,

and other workshops

• Access to preparation help for pre-health

students

• And more! Check it out at

umich.joinhandshake.com

Engineering Careers, by 12twenty is the primary

career portal for Michigan engineering, computer

science, and data science students.

Engineering Careers houses an abundance of

employers looking to hire Michigan Engineering

students.

You can use Engineering Careers to:

• Sign up for a career advising appointment

• Learn about ECRC workshops and career

events

• Research careers

• Apply to full-time, internship, and co-op

opportunities

Companies that are looking to hire Michigan Engineering students will post their job opportunities in Engineering Careers, by

12twenty and collaborate with the ECRC on recruitment events. The ECRC recommends using Engineering Careers, by 12twenty

as your main job portal. However, Handshake and the services oered by the University Career Center are a great supplemental

tool to your job search.

To connect with U-M alumni interested in helping you explore

and reach your goals, visit UCAN (umich.peoplegrove.com)

8 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

STUDENT SERVICES

GET STARTED...BECOME CAREER READY

Developing professional competencies is just as important as excelling academically. By engaging in opportunities on and o

campus, you can build a foundation of professional skills that will help you in the job search and your future career.

Critical Thinking and

Problem Solving

• Engage fully in each core

course taken

• Brainstorm solutions before

asking questions

• Pursue research experiences

with faculty

Career Management

• Schedule an appointment with

a Career Advisor

• Attend career fairs and career

events

• Conduct an informational

interview

Professionalism and

Work Ethic

• Complete internships and

industry design projects

• Build a professional wardrobe

• Maintain a positive attitude

Teamwork and

Collaboration

• Join associations and

competition teams

• Eectively partner with

workplace sta

• Share responsibility on class

projects

Leadership

• Get involved in an engineering-

focused student organization

• Take a lead role in a class

project

• Volunteer to take on new tasks

in the workplace

Oral and Written

Communication

• Attend resume drop-ins;

prepare a cover letter

• Seek opportunities to present

• Complete a mock interview at

ECRC

Digital Technology

• Develop your LinkedIn proﬁle

and digital identity

• Navigate Engineering Careers

• Pursue advanced training in

industry platforms

Global and Intercultural

Fluency

• Study abroad and seek

international internships

• Participate in diversity

initiatives on campus

• Expand awareness of cultural

norms

Adapted with permission from The National Association of Colleges and Employers.

career.engin.umich.edu 9

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Pass the 20-second scan!

Recruiters quickly scan resumes looking for evidence of

your skills, abilities, and achievements related to their

hiring needs. The 20-second scan represents the time it

takes a recruiter to decide whether to pursue or pass.

How do I convey that I am the Ideal

Candidate?

10 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

RESUMES, CVs AND COVER LETTERS

RESUME WRITING FOR IMPACT

Top 4 “Must Haves” to Stand Out

1. Demonstrate required transferable skills (Career Readiness

Skills – see page 8)

2. Provide evidence of technical qualiﬁcations (degree,

computer skills, certiﬁcations, machining/fabrication, etc.)

3. Highlight accomplishments, contributions, and problems

solved

4. Showcase non-technical jobs, extracurricular activities,

and other unique experiences

Uncover Your Impact

For each of your experiences, ask yourself:

• How did I contribute to the group, organization, or team?

• What was the result or outcome of my eort?

• How did the organization beneﬁt from the work I did?

• What impact did I have on the projects I was a part of?

• Can I quantify my impact?

Develop Strong, Positive Impact Statements

Create concise, action-oriented achievement (impact) statements

that demonstrate your skills to perform the job.

Formula for Success: Impact Statements

Bullet Point Format

• Action: What did you do? (Use action verb)

• Context: How did you do it? (Deﬁne skills, tools, programs,

complexity, or environment)

• Result: Why did you do it? (Explain the purpose of your eort)

Examples of Impact Statements

RETAIL SALES CLERK

BEFORE

Replenished stock in assigned areas

Assisted customers with merchandise questions

AFTER

Created visually appealing and accessible merchandise

displays to enhance customer experience and increase sales

Studied store layout and merchandise placement in order to

assist with frequent customer inquiries

COURSE PROJECT

BEFORE

Worked in a group to research knee joint replacements

AFTER

Researched the history, physicalities, and development of

knee joint replacements to identify an opportunity to improve

implant functionality with four other team members

Action Context Results

career.engin.umich.edu 11

RESUMES, CVs AND COVER LETTERS

ACTION VERBS FOR YOUR RESUME

Administered

Analyzed

Assigned

Attained

Chaired

Consolidated

Contracted

Coordinated

Delegated

Developed

Directed

Enhanced

Established

Evaluated

Executed

Improved

Increased

Initiated

Instituted

Managed

Motivated

Organized

Planned

Prioritized

Produced

Recommended

Reorganized

Reviewed

Scheduled

Strengthened

Supervised

Adapted

Advised

Coached

Communicated

Coordinated

Developed

Enabled

Encouraged

Evaluated

Explained

Facilitated

Focused

Guided

Individualized

Informed

Instructed

Persuaded

Stimulated

Trained

Tutored

Administered

Allocated

Analyzed

Appraised

Audited

Balanced

Budgeted

Calculated

Computed

Developed

Estimated

Forecasted

Managed

Marked

Planned

Projected

Reconciled

Reduced

Researched

Acted

Adapted

Composed

Conceptualized

Created

Customized

Designed

Developed

Directed

Established

Fashioned

Founded

Illustrated

Initiated

Instituted

Integrated

Introduced

Invented

Modiﬁed

Originated

Performed

Planned

Revised

Revitalized

Shaped

Solved

Advocated

Aided

Assessed

Assisted

Clariﬁed

Coached

Counseled

Demonstrated

Diagnosed

Educated

Encouraged

Expedited

Facilitated

Familiarized

Guided

Motivated

Intervened

Referred

Rehabilitated

Represented

Resolved

Supported

Volunteered

Achieved

Awarded

Completed

Expanded

Improved

Pioneered

Reduced

Resolved

Restored

Spearheaded

Succeeded

Surpassed

Transformed

Won

Approved

Arranged

Catalogued

Charted

Classiﬁed

Coded

Collected

Compiled

Dispatched

Distributed

Executed

Generated

Implemented

Inspected

Maintained

Monitored

Operated

Organized

Prepared

Processed

Purchased

Recorded

Retrieved

Reviewed

Routed

Scheduled

Set up

Speciﬁed

Screened

Standardized

Systematized

Tabulated

Updated

Validated

Veriﬁed

Adapted

Applied

Assembled

Built

Calculated

Computed

Designed

Developed

Devised

Engineered

Fabricated

Installed

Maintained

Operated

Overhauled

Programmed

Remodeled

Repaired

Replaced

Standardized

Solved

Studied

Upgraded

Utilized

Analyzed

Clariﬁed

Collected

Compared

Conducted

Critiqued

Diagnosed

Evaluated

Examined

Extracted

Gathered

Identiﬁed

Interpreted

Interviewed

Investigated

Located

Organized

Researched

Reviewed

Solved

Summarized

Surveyed

Systematized

Tested

Addressed

Authored

Collaborated

Composed

Contacted

Convinced

Corresponded

Directed

Drafted

Edited

Elicited

Explained

Formulated

Inﬂuenced

Interpreted

Lectured

Mediated

Moderated

Negotiated

Persuaded

Promoted

Publicized

Reconciled

Recruited

Resolved

Spoke

Translated

Wrote

MANAGEMENT SKILLS

TEACHING SKILLS

FINANCIAL SKILLS

CREATIVE SKILLS

HELPING SKILLS

MORE VERBS OF ACCOMPLISHMENT

CLERICAL/DETAIL SKILLS

TECHNICAL SKILLS

RESEARCH SKILLS

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Adapted with permission from the Career Guide of Texas A&M University

12 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

RESUMES, CVs AND COVER LETTERS

DO YOU WANT YOUR RESUME TO STAND OUT?

A resume provides a CLEAR, CONCISE, CONSISTENT and CUSTOMIZED summary of your background that should inspire the

employer to want to meet you. The following tips will assist you in achieving success!

Clear

• Write in present tense for experiences you are currently

doing

• Use reverse chronological order within each section

• Dates should be in month/year with the month spelled out or

abbreviated

• Allow for white (blank) space to exist in between your

sections — your document has to be readable

Concise

• Use a variety of strong action verbs to start your impact

statements

• Use acronyms carefully; is the acronym known to your

intended audience?

• Impact statements should be 1 – 2 lines

Consistent

• Apply bold, italics and underlining consistently throughout

your document

• Be consistent with capitalization and punctuation

• Use margins between 0.5 – 1 inch

• Use the SAME font type and size (10 – 12pt) throughout –

only your name should be slightly larger!

Customized

• Your resume should demonstrate the skills and experiences

related to the job you are applying for

• Include language in your resume that is used in the job

posting.

Include your GPA! Most employers will want to know your GPA eventually and expect that it will be on your

resume. If your GPA is above a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, you should include it. It may even be a good idea if it is

under 3.0. Contact the ECRC to speak with a Career Advisor if you have questions regarding your personal

GPA for the best advice for your situation.

Include personal information such as UMID, photos, icons, race, age, sexual orientation, religion, political

aliation or marital status.

Key Resume Sections

EDUCATION

Institution, location

Degree, Minor & Expected

Grad Date

GPA

Coursework

Study Abroad Experience

EXPERIENCE (TYPE OF)

Work Experience

Internship Experience

Project Experience –

Academic, Team or

Independent

Academic Experience

Research Experience

Leadership Experience

Volunteer Experience

SKILLS

Computer

Certiﬁcations

Languages

Fabrication

Training

Lab Equipment

DON'T

OTHER RESUME SECTIONS TO

CONSIDER

Activities

Professional Associations

Awards / Honors

Publications

Conference Presentations

Objective – Explains Your Intent

Summary – Overview of skills

and experience related to a

targeted role

career.engin.umich.edu 13

RESUMES, CVs AND COVER LETTERS

What to Know About Applicant Tracking Systems

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are used by many companies to process job applications and manage the hiring process. They are

designed to save recruiters time by making applicant information easily accessible and digitally searchable. ATS allow recruiters to

sift through the thousands of resumes they may receive utilizing various ﬁlters that they have identiﬁed to be important.

How can you ensure that your resume makes it through this system and into the hands of a recruiter? Keep the following tips in mind:

1. KEEP YOUR RESUME FORMAT SIMPLE

• Stick to standard resume formatting — avoid fancy fonts,

logos, symbols, and shading.

• Use single-column layouts. There are several ATS that fail at

reading multi-column resumes. If your education and work

experience are side-by-side, the ATS might interpret your

work experience as part of your education.

• Use familiar section headings such as Education,

Experience, Skills, etc.

• Do not include images, pictures, diagrams, or tables.

• Be consistent in the formatting within each section of your

resume.

2. MEET THE QUALIFICATIONS

• If you think you meet the qualiﬁcations described by the

employer, your resume should detail that evidence.

• Customize your resume using keywords described in the job

posting. Don’t go overboard repeating keywords; 2-3 times

will suce.

• Utilize acronyms carefully. Consider using the spelled-out

form followed by the acronym, then the acronym only if

repeated.

• Do not force soft skills (communication, teamwork, etc.) into

your resume by merely listing them. They mean little without

evidence. Instead, try to convey these skills through your

achievements.

3. FOLLOW APPLICANT DIRECTIONS

• Complete the online application process in the manner that

is requested. Any deviation from what is required can be a

reason to ﬁlter you out!

• Avoid skipping sections by using the phrase “see resume.”

While it may seem redundant to enter the exact information

from your resume, some ATS use these ﬁelds to execute the

search or ranking of your background.

14 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

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disability, or any other protected class. U.S. Citizenship is required for most positions. For our complete EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please visit

www.northropgrumman.com/EEO.

ngc.com/careers

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career.engin.umich.edu 15

RESUMES, CVs AND COVER LETTERS

SAMPLE RESUME

STUDENT NAME

[email protected] • 734-647-7160 • Ann Arbor, MI

EDUCATION

University of Michigan Ann Arbor, MI

Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Industrial and Operations Engineering April 2024

GPA: 3.08/4.00

Coursework: Introduction to Optimization Methods, Introduction to Markov Processes, Linear Statistical Models, Lean

Manufacturing and Services, Global Cultural Systems Engineering

Technische Universität Berlin Berlin, Germany

Study Abroad May 2021 - August 2021

• Completed coursework in Industrial Engineering and German language

• Participated in cultural and industrial excursions to understand intricacies of German culture and business

• Volunteered in local elementary school to teach English as a second language to students

WORK EXPERIENCE

Mataco, Inc. Broadview Heights, OH

Supply Chain Management Intern May 2023 - August 2023

• Coordinated transition to new brass wire supplier resulting in $5,500 savings

• Standardized shipment process from new supplier to Mataco factories using lean manufacturing techniques

• Developed database tools to track inventory transported from new supplier to Mataco warehouses

• Presented 12 weeks of data analysis and recommendations at Mataco annual company meeting

PROJECT EXPERIENCE

University of Michigan Ann Arbor, MI

Analysis of Solar Power January 2024 - Present

• Examine use of solar power in residential and commercial areas to determine economic feasibility of environmentally

friendly energy sources

• Compare costs of diverse solar cells, taking into consideration tax refunds and divergent energy outputs

• Compile results in formal report and presented findings to company CEO and leadership team for further study

Entrepreneurial Studies: Start-up Simulations September 2021 - December 2021

• Researched design options, material costs, competitors and market demand for wearable technology to determine

optimal pricing and launch strategy

• Created a 5-year financial projection demonstrating product viability and pitched business plan to potential investors

LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE

University of Michigan Alternative Spring Break Ann Arbor, MI

Site Leader September 2021 - March 2022

• Planned and facilitated an interactive 5-day service-learning trip to Gary, IN to volunteer in a domestic violence shelter

• Appropriated budget of $10,000 for food, travel, and accommodations for 12 student volunteers

• Managed volunteer schedule to ensure sufficient staffing of all events and services at the shelter

• Acted as a liaison between shelter staff and students to facilitate successful communication between all parties

SKILLS

Computer: Excel, Access, VBA, SQL, Minitab, AMPL, Python, C++, MATLAB

Certifications: Lean Manufacturing Green Belt, Six Sigma Green Belt

Coursera Training: Data Analysis and Visualization Foundations Specialization, Foundations of Project Management

Languages: Proficient in German

ACTIVITIES

Alpha Pi Mu (Industrial Engineering Honors Society), Member September 2022 - Present

Michigan Engineering Consulting Club, Member January 2023 - May 2023

16 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

SAMPLE RESUME

RESUMES, CVs AND COVER LETTERS

STUDENT NAME

(xxx) xxx-xxxx • [email protected]

SUMMARY

Multi-Disciplined Engineer equipped with innovative design solutions for multi-faceted projects

including major OEMs. Experienced in machining processes, computer-aided design and database

design platforms. Poised to provide technical direction and leadership to diverse teams in support of

successful project rollouts.

EDUCATION

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI

Master of Science in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering April 2024

GPA 3.64/4.00

Coursework: Auto Body Structures, Quality Engineering Principles, Intro to Systems Engineering,

Hybrid & Electric Vehicles

University of California, Los Angeles, CA

Bachelor of Science in Materials Engineering April 2022

GPA 3.81/4.00

Coursework: Computer-Aided Design, Manufacturing Processes, Metallic Alloys, Polymers,

Composite Materials, Ceramics and Glass, Mechanical Behaviors of Materials, Statics and Strength

Materials

EXPERIENCE

Eaton Corporation, Tualatin, OR

Engineering & Technology Intern (eMobility) June 2023-August 2023

• Modified power distribution unit (PDU) design for major OEM’s next generation electric vehicle

platform, increased busbar area by 35% and met packaging, creapage and clearance requirements

• Researched and created connector selection guide and creapage and clearance calculation

template for future applications

UCLA Institute for Technology Advancement, Los Angeles, CA

Baseball Bat Research Assistant December 2020-June 2022

• Redesigned, machined and assembled a high-pressure ball cannon to meet new industry testing

standard for measuring high speed bat performance (ASTM F2219)

• Prototyped and tested polyurethane foam inserts of various densities for AXE Bat’s Youth

League bats and improved weight-efficiency of stiffening inserts by 25%

PROJECTS

Multidisciplinary Design Program, BASF/Xenith Helmet Project

Engineering Sub team Member January 2023-Present

• Design and built drop test fixtures to perform initial helmet PU foam testing and screening

• Analyze stress-strain curves from data collected using UTM and high strain-rate drop test to

characterize foam behavior

AIAA Rocket Project

Structure Team Member/Project Team Leader September 2020-June 2021

• Collaborated with five team members to manufacture rocket body tubes using carbon fiber

prepregs

• Led the design and successful construction of vertical rocket stand

COMPUTER

SKILLS

Platforms: Windows Vista/7, Mac OS, UNIX: Solaris, HP-UX

Languages: C/C++, MATLAB, Java, LabView

Applications: SolidWorks, Simulink, Minitab

ACTIVITIES

Mechanical Engineering Graduate Council September 2022-Present

University of Michigan Men’s Rowing Team September 2022-September 2023

LANGUAGES

Fluent in Mandarin

career.engin.umich.edu 17

RESUMES, CVs AND COVER LETTERS

SAMPLE RESUME

FIRST YEAR STUDENT NAME

(xxx) xxx-xxx, [email protected]

2121 Bonisteel Blvd.

Ann Arbor, MI 48109

OBJECTIVE

Inquisitive undergraduate engineering student seeking to apply automotive interests in a summer 2021 internship focused

on autonomous vehicle development.

EDUCATION

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI

Bachelor of Science in Engineering April 2027

Mercy High School, Farmington Hills, MI

Diploma; GPA: 3.9/4.0 June 2023

LEADERSHIP

Mercy High School FIRST Robotics Team #1461, Farmington Hills, MI

Mechanical Team Lead August 2020 - May 2023

• Designed chassis of robot using CAD software then collaborated with programming team lead to ensure proper

design requirements were met

• Machined parts for dynamic systems using a lathe, drill press, bandsaw by accounting for the forces and

• accelerations of a rigid body robot

EXPERIENCE

Mercy High School, Farmington Hills, MI

Science Tutor June 2021 - August 2023

• Led tutoring sessions for 15 students by communicating key concepts in smaller groups to facilitate a better

understanding of biology, chemistry, and physics

• Adapted lesson plans for groups of five students based on their individual learning styles to foster deeper

engagement with course material and better retention

Yofresh Frozen Yogurt Cafe, Brighton, MI

Yogurt Connoisseur June 2020 – June 2021

• Maintained welcoming store atmosphere by greeting customers and completing their orders at the cash register in

a timely manner

• Recorded detailed list of closing shift responsibilities to standardize practice across all employees

ACTIVITIES

Women in Science and Engineering Residential Program (WISE RP), Ann Arbor, MI

Community Member September 2023 - Present

• Foster community within residence hall by participating in team building activities with 100+ community

members

• Analyze scientific journal articles and presented key findings to a class of 15 WISE RP members

University of Michigan, Intramural Soccer, Ann Arbor, MI

Team Captain September 2023- Present

• Recruiter of nine peers to form a coed soccer team by utilizing social media and flyers to market the opportunity

to the campus community

• Communicate with fellow captains in the league monthly to coordinate schedules and establish times for games

SKILLS

HTML, Microsoft Office, Windows, Mac O

18 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

RESUMES, CVs AND COVER LETTERS

SAMPLE RESUME CONTENT

Additional examples of how you can display education, experiences, skills, and impact statements on your resume are included

below and on the next page.

Objective

Seeking a summer supply chain internship at Amazon, available May – August 2024

Seeking a summer 2024 environmental engineering internship with Siemens, specializing in water waste management

Seeking a full-time position as an electrical engineer, with a strong interest in VLSI design

Seeking a full-time position as a process or manufacturing engineer, specializing in quality control

Education

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI

Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Aerospace Engineering April 2024

GPA 3.0/4.0

Washtenaw Community College, Ann Arbor, MI September 2020 - April 2021

Completed 40 credits of general education curriculum

GPA 3.8/4.0

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI

Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering April 2024

Bachelor of Business Administration April 2024

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI

Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Industrial & Operations Engineering April 2024

Minor in Entrepreneurship, Engineering Honors Program GPA 3.75/4.00

Experience

PROJECT EXPERIENCE

Multidisciplinary Design Program, NAME OF SPONSOR Ann Arbor, MI

Team Member (or your title) Jan 2023-Dec 2024

• Impact Statement

Better Living Using Engineering Laboratory (BLUE Lab) Ann Arbor, MI

Woven Wind Financial Chair Jan 2023-Present

Member Sep 2021-Dec 2022

• Impact Statement

University of Michigan Ann Arbor, MI

Entrepreneurial Studies: Start-up Simulations Sep 2023-Dec 2023

• Impact Statement

career.engin.umich.edu 19

WORK EXPERIENCE

University of Michigan, Multidisciplinary Design Program, NAME OF SPONSOR Ann Arbor, MI

Team Member (or your title) Jan 2024-Present

• Impact Statement

Whirlpool Corporation Benton Harbor, MI

WERLD Intern, Materials Technology - Cooking May 2023-Aug 2023

• Impact Statement

Manufacturing Leadership Development Program Intern May 2022-Aug 2023

• Impact Statement

RESEARCH EXPERIENCE

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) Ann Arbor, MI

Project Title: Modeling Buildings with Real-Time Videogrammetry Sep 2023-Present

• Developed a program in C to test the model’s accuracy with campus buildings and recorded discrepancies for further analysis

• Presented weekly updates to graduate student mentor on discrepancies and strengths of the model and discussed potential

improvements to the model’s accuracy

Sample Remote Position

VMware Palo Alto, CA

Research Intern (Remote) May 2022-Aug 2022

• Analyzed technical issues in client databases and developed an automated workﬂow using Python to improve processing time

for end user

• Communicated with customer solutions team to identify common concerns and solutions and implemented feedback into

customized workﬂows for their teams

Skills

Programing Languages: Python, C++, C, MATLAB

Technologies: AWS, React JS, Node JS, Vue JS, Docker, SQL, Flask

Sample Impact Statements

Good

Big Three Automotive Inc.,

Electrical Engineer, Steering Development Lab

• Designed the architecture and speciﬁcations for

electromechanical hardware-in-the-loop test bench for

Electronic Power Steering (EPS)

• Implemented CAN communication capability for Steering

Lab test stands

• Developed procedure to measure energy consumption of

electronic control modules

Great

Big Three Automotive Inc.,

Electrical Engineer, Steering Development Lab

• Designed the architecture and speciﬁcations for

electromechanical hardware-in-the-loop test bench for

Electronic Power Steering (EPS) to ultimately reduce

dependence on in-vehicle testing

• Implemented CAN communication capability for

Steering Lab test stands, reducing dependence on

supplier schedule and, consequently, the overall test

time for electronic power steering systems

• Developed procedure to measure energy consumption

of electronic control modules to quantify system

energy costs

RESUMES, CVs AND COVER LETTERS

career.engin.umich.edu 21

THE CURRICULUM VITAE

What Is It?

A Curriculum Vitae, also called a CV, is a job search

document that provides extensive information on an

applicant's qualiﬁcations and background, often with

a focus on academic and research related experiences.

Whereas a resume should be limited to one or two pages,

a CV may be many pages in length.

Who Needs One?

A CV is most often used by PhD candidates. The CV is

frequently used for applying to positions in academia,

national laboratories, or research focused organizations.

PhD candidates who are applying for positions in industry

may choose to utilize a resume instead of a CV. For most

bachelor's and master's degree students, a resume is often

more appropriate than a CV.

What to Include?

CVs are highly personalized depending on the candidate and

the type of positions to which the candidate is applying. Be

sure to customize the content and arrange the sections in the

order that makes the most sense for your situation. Here are

some common sections to include in a CV:

EDUCATION

List your degrees in reverse chronological order.

Include: Institution and location; Degree; Graduation date;

Minors, concentrations, certiﬁcates, or areas of specialization

Optional (when relevant for research or academic positions):

Dissertation or title of thesis, Advisor’s name

EXPERIENCE

This section is one of the most important on your CV. The

speciﬁcs will depend on the individual candidate, but this

could include work and/or research experience. Note that if

you have a signiﬁcant experience that was of a long duration,

you may have a lot of relevant information about it you'd like to

communicate on your CV. Instead of a long list of bullet points

under one experience, consider dividing the bullet points into

themes or sub-projects under that experience.

Include: Name of organization and location; Title of position;

Dates; Description of your responsibilities

PROJECTS

This could include academic projects, independent projects, as

well as any related student project teams

TEACHING EXPERIENCE

This is an especially valuable section if you are interested in a

career in academia.

PUBLICATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS

Depending on how many presentations or publications you

have, you may want to list Select Publications based on

relevance and/or consider dividing into categories.

ACTIVITIES

In addition to extracurricular activities, be sure to include

membership in any professional associations and service or

leadership experiences.

AWARDS, HONORS, AND/OR RECOGNITION

It is common to include recognition that candidates have

received for their academic success. This is often common for

CVs in Academia.

SKILLS

Highlight your technical skills and language skills in this

section.

REFERENCES

References may be included as the ﬁnal page of your CV.

Next Steps & Resources

• Research best practices for your preferred position/

industry/sector

• Consult with your faculty advisor or other specialists in your

ﬁeld of interest

• Utilize resources, such as the Center for Research on

Learning & Teaching (CRLT) https://crlt.umich.edu/cvs-and-

cover-letters

• Schedule a CV review appointment with an ECRC Advisor

Please Note: The sample CV on the following pages is

for illustrative purposes only. Sections are condensed to

accommodate space limitations within this guide.

A CV provides extensive information on THE APPLICANT’S QUALIFICATIONS AND BACKGROUND

RESUMES, CVs AND COVER LETTERS

22 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

Mitch Igan

(555) 555-5555 | mitchigan@umich.edu | 1201 S. Main St. | Ann Arbor, MI 48105

Mitch Igan - 1

SUMMARY

Experienced biomedical engineering researcher with expertise in biomaterials, mechanobiology, and cell biology.

Biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry experience focused on early-stage discovery and development of

therapeutics for fibrotic diseases. Motivated and collaborative worker with a strong publication record and excellent

communication skills, pursuing an industry postdoctoral research position in discovery oncology.

EDUCATION

University of Michigan Ann Arbor, MI

Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering, Concentration in Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine December 2024

Graduate Certificate in Innovation & Entrepreneurship GPA: 3.93/4.00

Thesis: Biomaterial Control of Cell Forces to Enable Intercellular Communication during Vasculogenic Assembly

Relevant Coursework: Artificial Intelligence in Biomedical Engineering, Cellular Biotechnology, Commercialization

of Biomedicine, Technology-Inspired Business Models

University of Nebraska - Lincoln Lincoln, NE

Bachelor of Science in Biological Systems Engineering, Minor in Biomedical Engineering May 2019

Honors Program Scholar GPA: 4.00/4.00

RESEARCH EXPERIENCE

University of Michigan - Engineered Microenvironments and Mechanobiology Lab Ann Arbor, MI

Graduate Research Assistant November 2019 - Present

Advisor: Dr. Nigel Thomson

• Combine approaches from cell biology, materials science, and microfabrication to investigate how structure and

mechanics of the cellular microenvironment regulate fundamental cell processes

• Investigate cellular interactions with their microenvironment in order to design biomaterials that direct the self-

assembly of functional microvascular networks, and understand how the physical properties of the extracellular

matrix regulate myofibroblast activation during fibrotic diseases

• Design and characterize natural and synthetic hydrogel platforms with tunable physical properties through polymer

chemistry, electrospinning, and atomic force microscopy

• Perform 2D and 3D culture of various cell types including endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and induced pluripotent

stem cells (iPSCs)

• Visualize data with confocal microscopy and write custom Matlab scripts for high throughput data analysis

• Utilize photolithography and soft lithography approaches to develop high throughput substrates that isolate single

cells for analysis of cell behavior in user-defined microtissues

• Mentor three undergraduate researchers through one-on-one instruction in data collection and analysis

AbbVie Inc. North Chicago, IL

Experiential Intern – Discovery Dermatology and Fibrosis (Remote) June 2023 – August 2023

• Surveyed, evaluated, and proposed novel 3D cell culture platforms and techniques for in vitro modeling of

idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

• Organized and led biweekly internship group meetings to foster intern networking and cross-functional exposure

TEACHING EXPERIENCE

University of Michigan - Biomedical Instrumentation and Design Ann Arbor, MI

Graduate Student Instructor August 2020 – December 2020

• Instructed students on how to design and configure various biosensors to acquire physiological information from a

living system, interface sensing devices to a digital acquisition system, and process experimental data for analysis

• Assessed student capabilities and needs to deliver customized tutoring and support student learning during weekly

office hours

RESUMES, CVs AND COVER LETTERS

career.engin.umich.edu 23

RESUMES, CVs AND COVER LETTERS

Mitch Igan - 2

PROJECT EXPERIENCE

miLEAD Consulting Ann Arbor, MI

Project Manager June 2024 - Present

Consultant August 2022 – June 2024

• Managed a team of four consultants to provide early-stage and established organizations with rigorous analysis to

inform and guide decisions towards advancing their products and services

• Developed a project plan, communicated directly with client, and maintained focus on final deliverables

to ensure that project goals were met

• Conducted comprehensive primary and secondary market research to identify viable customer segments for a

client’s novel product or technology

University of Michigan – Biomedical Engineering Department Ann Arbor, MI

Artificial Intelligence in Biomedical Engineering: Research Report January 2023 – April 2023

• Analyzed a preexisting single cell RNA-sequencing dataset consisting of transcriptomes from 21,252 endothelial

cells (each consisting of 14,917 genes) that were isolated from healthy and cancerous lung tissue

• Utilized Matlab to analyze properties of the dataset, conduct unsupervised learning approaches, and develop

machine learning algorithms to identify unique genes that were differentially regulated as well as predict disease

state based solely on endothelial cell expression levels

SKILLS

Lab Skills: 2D & 3D cell culture, Hydrogel Formulation, Mechanical Characterization, Confocal Microscopy

Immunostaining, Live Cell Imaging, Lentiviral Transduction, Western Blotting, Microfabrication

Computer Skills: MATLAB, ImageJ, GraphPad Prism, Adobe Illustrator, AutoCAD, Microsoft Office

PUBLICATIONS

1. Igan MJ, Rossi LF, Li MR, Ivanov MI, Garcia JG, Arbor AA. Mechanical intercellular communication via

matrix-borne cell force transmission during vascular network formation. BioRxiv 2024.

2. Li MR, Igan MJ, Zhang WC, Arbor AA. Actomyosin contractility-dependent matrix stretch and recoil induces

rapid cell migration. Nature Communications 2022; 10:1186.

3. Li MR, Taylor AP, Zhao S, Weber EL, Kornakova M, Igan MJ, Soto H, Zhang WC, Murphy SK, Leung Z,

Nowak AK, Kalchik IN, Thomson, NA. Direct comparison of angiogenesis in natural and synthetic biomaterials

reveals matrix porosity regulates endothelial cell invasion speed and sprout diameter. Acta Biomaterialia, in press.

FELLOWSHIPS AND SCHOLARSHIPS

National Institutes of Health Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (Parent F31) 2023 - Present

National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship 2023 - Present

HONORS AND AWARDS

Acta Student Award Finalist, Acta Journals May 2024

ASME-BED PhD Student Paper Competition 2nd place, Summer Biomechanics Conference June 2022

ABSTRACTS AND PRESENTATIONS

1. Igan MJ, Ivanov MI, Bianchi SA, Wilson DN, Tremblay SA, Thomson NA. Synthetic matrix fibers supports 3D

endothelial cell network assembly in fibrin hydrogels. BMES 2024 Annual Meeting, Orlando, FL. October 6-9,

2024, poster.

2. Rossi LF, Martin MP, Esposito MA, Igan MJ, Jensen OW, Thomson NA. Mechanical cues drive the robust

assembly of microfabricated stem cell-derived cardiac tissues. 2024 Summer Biomechanics, Bioengineering, and

Biotransport Conference, June 14-18, 2024, virtual presentation.

Igan, MJ, Thomson NA. Cellular communication via force propagation in fibrous microenvironments.

Engineering Graduate Symposium, Ann Arbor, MI, October 26, 2022, poster.

24 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

RESUMES, CVs AND COVER LETTERS

COVER LETTER FORMAT

General: Cover letters should not exceed one page in length and should be written for a speciﬁc position. Utilizing a generic cover

letter to apply to multiple positions is not recommended.

When emailing: Insert your cover letter as page one of your resume and identify this in your brief email. Your email can simply state

that you are interested in a speciﬁc position, you appreciate their consideration, and attached is your resume and cover letter.

Your name and address as they appear on your resume

Date

Contact Person, Title (if available)

Company Name

Address

City, State Zip

Dear Hiring Representative or Contact Person:

First Paragraph—Introduction

Establishes the purpose of your letter, explains why you are interested in the position, and states why

the employer should be interested in you for the position (interests, previous experience).

• State why you are writing by naming the speciﬁc position and direct personal interest in the

company/role.

• Insert a brief sentence that gives your degree, major, college aliation, and graduation date.

• Consider including how you heard about the position/employer. (For example, mention the

contact person from whom you learned about the position).

• Conclude this paragraph with the skills you plan to highlight in your letter.

Middle Paragraph(s)—Body (1–2 paragraphs depending on background)

Generates interest with content that demonstrates you have researched the company, and that you

are able to align your skills and interests with the company as well as its oered position.

• Indicate how you can help the employer achieve organizational goals in your specialty. Focus

on what you can do for them rather than why you want the position.

• Highlight your most signiﬁcant accomplishments, abilities, and experiences that are

speciﬁcally relevant to the employer and job requirements.

• DO NOT SIMPLY RESTATE YOUR RESUME.Rather, elaborate and explain important experiences

and personal qualities that cannot be indicated on a resume.

Final Paragraph—Closing

Concludes your letter and states your commitment to action.

• Consider summarizing your skills and experiences by connecting them directly to the company

and/or position.

• Indicate that you are grateful for their consideration, and look forward to connecting with them

in the future.

Sincerely,

Student Name

career.engin.umich.edu 25

RESUMES, CVs AND COVER LETTERS

September 23, 2023

Amazon

123 Street Name

Seattle, WA 98109

Dear Amazon Hiring Representative,

I am writing to apply for the Business Analyst position with Amazon. I believe that my creativity and ability to

eciently solve complex problems are well suited to Amazon’s culture of continuous innovation. I am intrigued

by the opportunity to create ecient business processes as Amazon innovates, invents, and engineers on

multiple fronts across a variety of industries. I am currently a junior at the University of Michigan studying

Industrial and Operations Engineering and plan to graduate with my B.S.E. in May 2024. I am conﬁdent that I

possess the project management and data analysis skills to be successful in this role.

In the summer of 2023, I worked as a Research Assistant at the Center for Ergonomics at the University of

Michigan. In this role, I stepped in to continue the work that had been started to assist LG in improving their

vacuum design as it related to customer usage. This involved designing a survey that participants would

complete prior to taking part in a lab study. Information from this survey would enable the study to run more

eciently. I worked independently creating this survey; I was self-motivated and set goals along the way to

ensure timely completion. The completed product was so well received by representatives at LG that they

decided to utilize the survey nationally rather than locally, which had been previously planned.

I demonstrated my strong skills in analyzing and interpreting data this past semester in a Data Processing

class. I was part of a project team that examined information related to customer experience metrics of a car

dealership, including vehicle purchase date, inclusion of additional warranty, lease vs. purchase, etc. Our task

was to develop software to predict the point at which an escalated customer complaint would likely develop

into a lawsuit. After receiving 77MB of data to analyze, we developed metrics in SQL and used statistical

analysis tools in Minitab and Excel. The model that I created accurately predicted when a lawsuit would not

occur with 99.5% accuracy and when a lawsuit may occur within 80% accuracy.

I believe that through these experiences, along with my demonstrated leadership through my Resident

Advisor and Peer Advisor roles, I have developed a unique combination of skills that have prepared me well

for Amazon’s Business Analyst position. I appreciate your time and consideration, and I look forward to

discussing my qualiﬁcations with you further during an upcoming interview.

Sincerely,

Student Name

SAMPLE COVER LETTER

STUDENT NAME

(xxx) xxx-xxxx • [email protected]

International Center

(734) 764-9310

Main Oce: icenter@umich.edu

Located in the Student Activities Building

515 E Jeerson Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48109

26 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

JOB SEARCH

HOPING TO GAIN VALUABLE INDUSTRY

EXPERIENCE? CONSIDER DOING A CO-OP

The Cooperative (Co-op) Education Program assists students

in pursuing an optional program of work while studying in

the College of Engineering. Students can ﬁnd co-op positions

independently or by using ECRC resources such as Engineering

Careers, by 12Twenty, a web-based recruiting system. A co-op

search is the same as any other job search—students apply

to organizations and then may be invited to interview. For more

information visit career.engin.umich.edu/co-ops

What is the dierence between a co-op and

a summer internship?

Co-ops involve a longer commitment than a traditional

internship, generally May through December or January

through August. An internship typically takes place between

May and August. We recommend that you try and obtain a

summer internship or co-op before you graduate. For more

information email ecrc-intern-coop@umich.edu

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

As an international student, you should only obtain information related to your individual visa status from the University of Michigan

International Center or an experienced immigration attorney. Advice from any other source may be inaccurate.

If you are seeking employment in the United

States:

Contact the U-M International Center for guidance and make an

appointment with an International Center Advisor.

The U-M International Center and the ECRC regularly host

workshops for international students on ﬁnding internships and

full-time jobs in the United States. For more information, see

their website at internationalcenter.umich.edu.

Preparing for the Job Search

• There are many employers who hire international

employees. International students have much to oer

employers including cross-cultural skills, diversity, a global

perspective, perseverance, and language/skills.

• Networking is essential. Many jobs are found this way. In

the U.S., self-promotion in communication is considered a

strength, and is often necessary when networking.

• Language barriers, real or perceived, and/or other concerns

about communication skills may exist. For assistance, go

to the University of Michigan’s English Language Institute

website lsa.umich.edu/eli.

• Use a diverse approach when looking for opportunities.

Include companies with international locations, and seek

out occupations where international employees may be

needed. Try to gain experience through internships.

• Gain a thorough knowledge of your CPT, OPT, AT, and visa

status; this will help you as well as potential employers.

Tips for Interviews

• Some international students may not realize when their

language skills are causing them to be misunderstood. Look

for nonverbal clues, such as follow-up questions that don’t

match your responses or sudden disinterest on the part of

the interviewer.

• Make sure you express proper nonverbal communication;

always look directly at the employer in order to portray

conﬁdence and honesty.

• Pursue professional experiences that demonstrate an

immersion into U.S. culture as well as daily use of the

English language. Some experiences include intramural

sports, residence hall activities, student organizations, and

leadership positions.

• For additional resources visit career.engin.umich.edu/

career/international-students

career.engin.umich.edu 27

JOB SEARCH STRATEGIES

Utilize CoE RESOURCES

• Start your search early! Recruiting kicks o in September

and continues throughout the academic year; be in the mix

at the peak of recruiting

• Attend Career Fairs, Company Days, and other employer

hosted events

• Search and apply for internship, co-op, and full-time jobs

through your Engineering Careers, by 12twenty account

• See who is recruiting and/or hiring Michigan Engineers.

Check out the ECRC Annual Salary Report: career.engin.

umich.edu/career/salary-info

DIVERSIFY Your Approach

• Develop a list of desirable employers, then expand this list

by researching their competitors

• Job boards can lead to success

° Apply to employer career portals

° Search sites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn

° Specialty job boards typically run by professional

associations or geared toward engineering speciﬁc job

° Engineering Careers, by 12Twenty

° ECRC’s Additional Job Search Links: career.engin.

umich.edu/job-search-links

• Build and enhance your digital proﬁle (see p. 35)

NETWORK Your Way to a Job

• Build your network by connecting with faculty, family

associates, friends, and former colleagues

• Utilize LinkedIn to connect with Michigan Engineering

alumni

° Search LinkedIn groups

° Gather information through informational interviews

• Engage and interact with employers

° Via campus events, stay connected through email

follow-up or LinkedIn

CUSTOMIZE Your Materials

DO NOT send in the same resume and cover letter for each

job you apply for

• Optimize your resume; include your skills and experience

that match the position requirements

• Tailor your cover letter; articulate your interest in the job

and company, provide context for how your background

aligns with the qualiﬁcations of the job

ORGANIZE Your Way to Success

• Identify your job search goals

° Set measurable goals — for example: research two

new companies and apply for ﬁve jobs this week,

update my LinkedIn proﬁle, etc.

° Read ECRC emails and Events Calendars to learn

about upcoming employer events and recruiting

opportunities

• Set up job alerts — Immediately learn about jobs of interest

• Create a system to keep track of your applications,

employer information, job descriptions, etc.

• Pay attention to job posting deadlines — don’t miss an

opportunity

JOB SEARCH

28 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

EXPLORE AND APPLY FOR RESEARCH

OPPORTUNITIES

Gain relevant experience and expand your knowledge by

engaging in research. Explore the many robust research

opportunities available at Michigan.

Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) -

UROP provides opportunities for ﬁrst-year and sophomore

students to work on research and creative projects with

University of Michigan researchers and community partners in

all academic disciplines. (lsa.umich.edu/urop)

Summer Undergraduate Research in Engineering (SURE) -

College of Engineering-speciﬁc program that oers summer

research internships to students who have completed their

sophomore or junior year. Participants conduct research

with some of the country’s leading faculty in a wide range of

engineering disciplines. (sure.engin.umich.edu)

Multidisciplinary Design Program (MDP) - College of

Engineering-speciﬁc program that oers a variety of faculty-

led collaborative multidisciplinary research teams in addition to

industry-sponsored projects. (mdp.engin.umich.edu)

Engineering Department Research - College of Engineering

departments conduct research speciﬁc to their discipline.

Check department web pages to explore faculty members’

research topics. (engin.umich.edu/departments)

Student Employment Website - Resource for students to

explore, and apply to, part-time jobs at the University of

Michigan, both on campus and with other local employers.

Research Assistant positions may be found using this resource.

(studentemployment.umich.edu).

Tips for Applying

• Update your resume and schedule a resume review

with an ECRC Advisor via Engineering Careers, by

12twenty

• Research Programs: research timelines and application

requirements speciﬁc to that program

• Engineering Department Research: connect directly

with department faculty and/or graduate student

researchers to express interest in their research/lab;

send a concise email expressing your interest and

attach your resume

Faculty Outreach - Email Sample

Dear FACULTY PROFESSIONAL NAME,

My name is Anne Arbor, and I am a junior majoring in Biomedical Engineering with a minor in Computer Science. I learned about your

lab through the spotlight of your most recent publication in the BME newsletter. After taking Quantitative Cell Biology, I am really

interested in systems biology, so I was very intrigued to read about your research studying cellular mechanisms related to HIV. I

would like to learn more about how you use measurements of cytokines as input to computational models to investigate disease

susceptibility.

Over the summer, I participated in a research experience where I was involved in a project using data-driven modeling in order

to study gene interactions related to melanoma drug resistance. While involved with this project, I gained skills using Python to

organize data and perform principal component analysis, solve dierential equations, and perform least-squares optimization. I

believe my strong background in computation would allow me to quickly learn any languages or libraries used in your research.

I strongly believe that my dedication and skills would be beneﬁcial to your project, and I would appreciate being considered for any

openings on your team. I have attached my resume for your review and I look forward to speaking with you further.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Anne Arbor

JOB SEARCH

career.engin.umich.edu 29

JOB SEARCH

CAREER FAIRS

What Is a Career Fair?

A career fair is an opportunity for employers and students

to meet one another and determine whether there may be a

suitable job match in the near or long term. Career Fairs are

held throughout the academic year by student organizations,

engineering departments, and the ECRC.If you are searching for

a summer internship, co-op, or full-time position then you will

want to take advantage of the ﬁrst Engineering-wide fall career

fair held in September when the college recruiting cycle kicks

o. That fair, and the winter fair in January, will draw hundreds

of employers and thousands of students, so learning how to

navigate the fair experience is essential.

Tips for Virtual Career Fairs

• Prepare as you would for an in person fair by following

the tips on page 31

• Carefully read the instructions and/or guide for the

Virtual Career Fair you plan to attend so you fully

understand how to use the platform and follow any

recommended tasks before the fair. This could mean

setting up a proﬁle and testing technology

• Plan the location you will be at during the fair to make

sure you have secure internet and phone reception as

well as a professional background for video calls

• Know that technical diculties may happen. Whether

your connection is not strong or your video does not

work, try not to let that interfere with your focus

• Pay attention to when sign up for 1-on-1 appointments

begins and ends

Hello [Contact],

I enjoyed meeting you at the EVENT NAME last week. I

appreciate you taking the time to speak with me about

potential career opportunities with COMPANY NAME. I

was very interested to hear about your work involving the

rehabilitation of natural streams and have applied to the

available environmental engineering internship position

online as you suggested.

I wanted to rearm my interest in working for your

company. As we discussed, I am conﬁdent that my

experience in teamwork and creative problem solving

gained while working on the Living Building project with

BLUELab at the University of Michigan would allow me to

contribute signiﬁcantly to your team.

Thank you again for your time and consideration. I look

forward to hearing from COMPANY NAME.

Sincerely,

NAME

Sample Follow Up After a Networking Event

30 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

LILLY FOR BETTER

We live in an amazing era for medicine. At Lilly, we

use groundbreaking science to meet unmet medical

need in the areas of diabetes, oncology, immunology,

neurodegeneration and pain. Our determination is to

advance the best science of the day in an effort to

make life better for people around the world.

lilly.com

2020 CA Approved for External Use

PRINTED IN USA

ENGINEER

YOUR IDEAL

CAREER

From the ofce to the eld to the

plant, our engineering team plays

an integral role in providing an

essential service to the people and

businesses of Michigan.

It’s an exciting time in the energy

industry. Join the fun today!

ConsumersEnergy.com/careers

5629-C

Career Fair Preparation

• Utilize college resources to determine what

companies will be attending the fair

• Determine which companies are looking for you:

position type, major, degree, work authorization

status, etc.

• Create a top-10 list and research each company and

possible positions of interest

• Network! Attend other campus events that companies

you are interested in may be hosting prior to or after

the fair

• Be proactive: apply for open positions prior to the fair

and mention this in your conversation

• Have a well-written resume: attend a resume writing

workshop, or visit the ECRC for a resume critique and/

or an Employer Resume Critique event

• Create a 30-second elevator pitch and practice it!

• Prepare questions for your companies of interest

• Plan your professional attire

• Bring a folder or portfolio with multiple copies of your

resume, notepad, pen, and your list of researched

companies

Career Fair Day

• Bring a positive attitude, smile, conﬁdent handshake,

and targeted pitch to each recruiter you meet

• Convey interest, demonstrate knowledge about the

company/position, explore ﬁt, be engaging

• Be respectful of recruiters’ time before, during, and at

the end of the fair

• Be prepared for long lines; review your research on

the company while you wait

• Take notes on your interactions, including who you

spoke with. Request contact information and follow

up with a thank-you email after the fair

career.engin.umich.edu 31

Sample Elevator Pitch

Hello, my name is Emma Walters and I am a sophomore at the University of

Michigan studying mechanical engineering. I am seeking an internship in the

biomedical industry with a focus on joint mechanics.

I have worked on two complex biomedical engineering projects, which I

believe will be an asset for this type of internship. Last year I worked on a

student team where we studied the Stryker Triathlon Total Knee Replacement

and proposed a design recommendation that reduced bone deterioration within

patients.

I am also currently working with Michigan Neuroprosthetics to design a

neurologically controlled hand prosthetic to be 3D-printed for use on patients

with wrist amputations. These experiences have enhanced my leadership,

communication, and problem-solving skills, which would be beneﬁcial in a

regulatory aairs engineering internship with Zimmer Biomet. Could you tell me

more about the internship program?

The Elevator Pitch

An elevator pitch is a short (30-60

second), concise, and memorable

introduction. It highlights your strengths

and what distinguishes you from others.

It provides employers with quality

information about who you are, and

what you can oer them. When creating

your pitch, think carefully about what

you want each individual employer to

know about you, and how you can help

them. After you formulate your pitch,

practice it often. The goal is to sound

conﬁdent, sincere, and engaging,

without sounding rehearsed. Find

additional elevator pitch examples on

page 32.

JOB SEARCH

32 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

SAMPLE ELEVATOR PITCHES

For Career Fairs

Hello, my name is NAME and I’m a sophomore studying electrical engineering. I’m seeking a summer internship in a customer-

focused industry. In my intro-engineering design course, I worked together with a team of students to design, build, and test an

autonomously operated quadcopter. I also currently work as an engineering tour leader where I engage with a variety of prospective

students each week. Through my experiences, I have developed a strong collaborative spirit. I know your company culture

emphasizes cross-functional teamwork and customer-focused design. Could you tell me more about how you’ve experienced this

aspect of your company’s culture in your daily work?

Hello, I’m NAME and I’m a senior studying materials science and engineering graduating this May. I am seeking a full-time position in

product development. I recently interned at Ford where I led a project to evaluate the mechanical performance of a new material by

planning and executing a variety of feasibility tests. On campus, I serve as a student leader in the Michigan Marching Band, where

I help band members execute successful performances each week. I think my passion for technical challenges and leadership

have prepared me well for a full-time opportunity at your company. I recently applied for an entry product engineering role on your

company’s website. Would you be able to tell me more about the role?

Hello, my name is NAME and I’m a ﬁrst year student here at the University. In the past, I worked as a science tutor at my local

high school and was able to assist several students in studying for their biology, chemistry, and physics AP tests. On campus, I am

involved in the WISE residential program and am the team captain for my intramural soccer team. The tech industry has been an

interest of mine for a long time and to be able to contribute to the building of the company, potentially even as a ﬁrst year intern,

interests me greatly. I would love to join a fast-growing company that values innovation and creativity, and this seems to describe

your organization based on what I’ve read on your website. Can you tell me more about your company and how I might be able to get

involved?

For Networking Events

Hello, my name is NAME, and I’m a junior studying environmental engineering. In your presentation, you mentioned how interns take

a high level of responsibility and ownership for their summer projects to inﬂuence the business in big ways. I was really excited by

this as someone who is passionate about sustainable design. Could you tell me a little more about the types of projects that interns

typically work on?

Hello, my name is NAME. Thank you for sharing in the presentation how your internship with your company helped prepare you

for your current role within the company. I was wondering if you could speak a little more to what about your internship program

experience compelled you to join the company full time?

JOB SEARCH

career.engin.umich.edu 33

JOB SEARCH

NETWORK YOUR WAY TO A JOB

NETWORKING IS the development and cultivation of

interpersonal connections and relationships that provide you

with information, advice, and future contacts. Networking is a

long-term investment that goes beyond the initial interaction.

It is a strategic connection with a person for their insight into a

profession, organization, or industry of interest. Networking is

an opportunity to gather information and insight; however, it is

also reciprocal and interactive.

NETWORKING IS NOT a quick ﬁx. It takes time to build

relationships. It does not involve making unsolicited random

calls or sending emails hoping for a response, nor asking

outright for a position. Networking is not unilateral: you have to

give to the conversation to build a relationship.

NETWORKING IS IMPORTANT. As you can see in the graph

to the right*, networking is one of the top ways Michigan

Engineering students ﬁnd full-time job opportunities. In addition,

79% of professionals consider networking to be important to

career success.

REMEMBER:

• Start now; don't wait until you need

something to begin networking

• Relax, it is just a conversation

• Adapt for the context/setting

• Be yourself!

• Follow through

• Be gracious

LEADING WAYS STUDENTS FIND FULL-TIME JOB OPPORTUNITIES

*2021-2022 First Destination Survey. 1,251 respondents answered this question.

Context Matters: Know Your Setting

Prepare an introduction to establish rapport.

INFORMATION SESSION OR TECH TALK:

• Likely to discuss the presenter's topic or company

CONFERENCES:

• Discuss your conference experience (e.g. keynote,

session, posters)

NETWORKING & CAREER-FOCUSED EVENTS:

• Minimal small talk will typically suce

• Discuss each person's skills, experiences, and

professional interests

CASUAL COFFEE MEET-UP:

• "Small talk" will occur to build rapport

• Find common subjects of interest for prolonged

conversation

30.93%

Networking

16.23%

Previous Co-Op/

Internship

15.43%

Career Fairs

37.41%

Job Postings

(Websites)

Sample Questions for an Informational

Interview

QUESTIONS TO ASK

• Where did you start your career?

• What does a typical work day look like for you?

• What do you like most about your job?

• What do you like least about your job?

• What advice do you have for job seekers interested

in this ﬁeld?

• What are the trends in this ﬁeld, and where do you

think this industry is headed?

• What are some current challenges you encounter in

the work you do?

• Who can I contact to learn more about this ﬁeld?

QUESTIONS NOT TO ASK

• Do you have a job for me?

• Do you have an internship for me?

• How much do you make?

34 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

JOB SEARCHJOB SEARCH

THE INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEW—

A GREAT WAY TO NETWORK

The informational interview is a great way for job seekers

and students exploring career options to obtain information

from professionals working in their ﬁelds of interest. In an

informational interview you are the interviewer, asking the

professional several questions about what they do, the industry

they are in, the strengths and challenges in their jobs, and

industry trends. The interviewee may also have excellent

information to share on the job market in their industry, and

what geographic areas to target.

What Motivates Professionals to Grant

Informational Interviews?

The reasons are varied. Generally, most people enjoy sharing

information about themselves and their jobs, and especially

love giving advice! Some may simply believe in encouraging

newcomers to their profession; others may be scoping

out prospects for anticipated vacancies. It is common for

professionals to exchange favors and information, so don’t

hesitate to call upon people.

How Do You Set Up Informational Interviews?

One possible approach is to send an email requesting a brief

informational interview (clearly indicating the purpose of the

meeting, and avoiding any reference to a job). Follow this up

with a phone call to schedule an appointment. Or initiate a

contact by making cold calls and setting up an appointment.

The best way to obtain an informational interview is by being

referred from one professional to another, a process that

becomes easier as your network expands.

"Informational interviewing was a surprisingly rewarding

process. I was encouraged and motivated by the

eagerness of near strangers to speak with me and

oer their insights and experiences transitioning from

academia to industry positions. I learned important job

title vocabulary that made my job searching more ecient

and expanded my network exponentially. My resume was

ultimately reviewed at my current workplace because

a contact I met in a 30 minute informational interview

forwarded my resume."

— Emily, PhD Environmental Engineering

Sample Informational Interview Request

Subject: Michigan engineering student seeking your

advice

Dear [Contact],

My name is [student], and I am a University of Michigan

Mechanical Engineering graduate student who found your

information on the U-M alumni LinkedIn group.

May I have 15 minutes to ask you about your experiences

at Cummins? I am interested in learning about new product

development at a global company, and your insights would

be helpful.

I recognize that this may be a busy time for you, so if we

are unable to connect by email I’ll try to reach you next

week to see if that is more convenient.

Thank you,

NAME

career.engin.umich.edu 35

JOB SEARCH

YOUR DIGITAL IDENTITY

We all have a digital ﬁngerprint. Content we share, post, and engage with online creates a digital proﬁle of who we are. Friends,

family, recruiters, and employers have access to your online activity. When it comes to your professional reputation, there are simple

things you can do to make sure your digital identity is an asset, not a risk.

Enhance Your Employability in Three Simple Steps

Access Your Existing Online Identity

• Conduct a Google search of your full name (text and

image search) and open all results on the ﬁrst page.

If there are any items you would not want a future

boss to see, locate the source and remove them.

• Posts about you, even not written by you (e.g. posted

by friends, co-workers, etc.) are still part of your

digital identity. Set up a Google alert to be aware of

what exists online about you.

• Outdated information and proﬁles may imply that you

do not follow through on projects. If you have any

proﬁles/blogs/websites that are no longer in use,

remove them.

• The goal of this exercise is not to completely remove

any trace of your digital identity, but to remove

information that could harm your job search, and

make your digital presence more attractive to

potential employers.

Manage Your Professional Proﬁle

DO:

• Check your posts for spelling/grammatical errors

• Treat interactions in a professional and formal

manner

• Leverage LinkedIn. Join the CoE group for alumni,

students, and faculty: umicheng.in/LinkedInCoE

DON'T:

• Discuss your place of work or co-workers online,

especially if the objective is to complain

• Engage in discussions about controversial topics

through social media

• Include inappropriate posts or photos (e.g. those

including drugs/alcohol)

Know Your Privacy Settings

Remember, no matter how secure your privacy settings

are, strangers can see your proﬁle picture, username,

what you like, and what you follow. When adjusting

your privacy settings, consider how you use each

proﬁle. Generally, LinkedIn is used for professional

networking; therefore, it is beneﬁcial to have a more

open proﬁle, whereas Facebook is a more personal

forum and should have stronger settings.

Social Media Checklist

• Professional/appropriate proﬁle photos

• Privacy settings are as secure as possible

• Posts and photos do not include:

– Inappropriate, discriminatory, or oensive

information

– Negative or o-color humor, poor grammar or

spelling

–Negative comments about an employer

Top

Tips

Your proﬁle

photo should

appear

professional

with no

distractions

Search for

companies

of interest

and identify

possible

connections

Before

researching

an interviewer

adjust your

proﬁle to

"invisible"

Use your

contacts to

ﬁnd new

connections

(2nd & 3rd)

Use your

summary as an

elevator pitch

to sell your

skills

 INTERESTS: Research areas of professional interest and follow those

topics, companies, hashtags, and people. Following areas of interest

helps you stand apart from the crowd by giving viewers a sense of who

you are on a personal and professional level.

 RECOMMENDATION: Ask managers, professors, or classmates

who have worked with you closely to write a recommendation. This

gives extra credibility to your strengths and skills.

 ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Courses, projects, honors and awards, and

organizations can be added to your proﬁle. Think of these sections as

your online resume.

36 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

JOB SEARCHJOB SEARCH

LINKEDIN PROFILE CHECKLIST

 PHOTO: Professional photographer not required. Take a clear and

focused picture in front of a plain background wearing a nice shirt or

blouse. Be sure to smile. No selﬁes!

 EDUCATION: Starting with college, list your educational

experiences, including study abroad and summer programs. Remove

your high school education after one year of college.

 HEADLINE: Announce “what you are” and “what you hope to be.”

Add credibility by highlighting key achievements such as leadership

roles or technical skills.

 SKILLS & ENDORSEMENTS: Add your key skills so that your

connections can endorse you for the things you do well. Be selective

in what you display—only display skills that enhance your brand.

 SUMMARY/ABOUT: A strong summary will include your strengths,

skills, and interests as they relate to your chosen industry.

 EXPERIENCE: List your past and current jobs, even if they were part-

time, along with what you accomplished at each. You can also include

images and videos of your work.

To view this proﬁle in more detail visit linkedin.com/in/mitch-igan

career.engin.umich.edu 37

38 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

INTERVIEWS

TYPES OF INTERVIEWS

The Behavioral Interview

WHAT IS IT?

The behavioral interview is a common format used by

many employers. This is because the behavioral interview

assesses how past behavior predicts future behavior. It

is assumed that you will address a situation in the future

similarly to how you dealt with it in the past. Remember, you

have to give speciﬁc examples from your past.

STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS

• Responses in behavioral interviews must be speciﬁc

and detailed. In fact, employers often indicate students

are not speciﬁc enough in describing their answers. Be

sure to address all aspects of the STAR formula in your

response. (An example of a STAR response can be found

on page 42.)

• Make sure you identify a variety of examples from past

experiences—the more recent, the better. Be sure you

use a diverse selection of examples and do not forget to

have positive and negative situations to share.

SAMPLE QUESTIONS

• Give me a speciﬁc example of when you used good

judgment and logic to solve a problem.

• Describe a situation where you used persuasion to

successfully convince someone to see things your way.

• Tell me about a time when you needed to be resourceful

to ﬁnish a project on time.

The Technical Interview

WHAT IS IT?

In the engineering world, the technical interview is quite

common because it enables employers to assess your

technical skills through a demonstration of how you solve

problems, reach conclusions, and incorporate novel thinking

into your approach. Some technical interviews are general,

meaning you may be asked to solve math problems or brain

teasers. Others may be speciﬁc based on the type of work

you will be doing with the company.

TECHNICALLY SPEAKING

• When answering technical interview questions, make

sure to think out loud.

• Pay attention to the information that the interviewer

provides to you throughout the process. In many

instances, the interviewer will provide clues and direction

to help you ﬁnd the answer.

• Do not be afraid to ask questions in the technical

interview. If you are stuck or need more information to

determine the answer, ask!

• If they provide tools like a whiteboard, use them. Show

them visually how you are conceptualizing your answer.

SAMPLE QUESTIONS

• Why are manhole covers round?

• Name ﬁve ways to retrieve a needle from a haystack.

• Please explain the concept of polymorphism in object-

oriented development.

• Why do we need to do PCC?

• What is Petrol Caloriﬁc Value?

Learn more about preparing for technical interviews at

career.engin.umich.edu/technical-interviews

The Case Interview

WHAT IS IT?

In a case interview you are asked to

analyze a business question or case.

However, unlike most other interview

formats, the case interview is an

interactive process. Case interviews

are most often used by consulting

companies. In a case interview,

the interviewer is assessing your

thought process—both analytical and

creative—in answering the question(s)

posed. Typically, the more speciﬁc and

quantitative your process is, the better!

TIPS

• Many consulting ﬁrms have interview preparation sections on their Careers

webpage.

• Connect with alumni who may be employed with the company where you are

interviewing. Check the Professional Network within the Alumni Association of the

University of Michigan (AAUM) to ﬁnd a Michigan graduate who is working where

you plan to interview.

• Because the case interview is designed to be interactive, be sure to listen carefully

and ask for clariﬁcation.

• When working through the case, make sure you let the interviewer know how you

are conceptualizing the problem, what evidence you are weighing (or missing)

when formulating recommendations, and the recommendations themselves.

career.engin.umich.edu 39

THE INTERVIEW GETS YOU THE JOB

This saying in career services is popular and, more importantly, largely true. If you have reached the interview stage, congratulations!

It means your resume is working. Still, much of the hard work is just beginning as you start interview preparation.

Sometimes It Is More Than What You Say

Nonverbal communication has the ability to convey a stronger

message than verbal communication.

• Stand tall

• Sit up straight

• Use a ﬁrm handshake

• Keep eye contact

• Smile

Arrive Early

Being on time to your interview means arriving 15 minutes

early. This gives you time to relax, and also shows the employer

you are serious about the position.

Top Five Tips

Schedule a mock interview at the ECRC and have one

of our Career Advisors evaluate your performance

through practice and feedback.

Avoid the use of verbal ﬁller words when you answer

questions. Words such as “um,” “ah,” “like,” “you

know,” and “I think” should be avoided.

Spend time reviewing your experiences, formulating

responses to typical interview questions, and

highlighting your unique educational and professional

background.

You must come prepared with several questions to ask

the employer. The absence of questions demonstrates

a lack of preparedness and interest.

After your interview, remember to send a thank-you

email within 24 hours. Use the email to reiterate

your enthusiasm for the position, discuss skills you

neglected to mention, and your strong ﬁt for the

position. See examples on page 51.

INTERVIEWS

Tell Me About Yourself

When asked this question, your goal is to share your

compelling professional story by summarizing your

experiences, qualiﬁcations, and interests related to the

speciﬁc position you are discussing. In other words, present

yourself as a strong candidate for the job.

There are three main components to a successful response

to this question:

1. Provide basic introductory information: Your name,

degree, major, and year.

2. Highlight 1–2 skills, experiences, and/or interests that are

relevant to the job /employer.

3. Explicitly connect your skills, experiences, and/or

interests to the speciﬁc job /employer.

My name is Mitch Igan. I’m currently pursuing a bachelor’s

in Industrial and Operations Engineering at the University of

Michigan. I have a knack for making things more ecient in

the world around me and I’m driven by a desire to reduce the

amount of time and steps required to complete a process.

This natural strength led me to IOE where I’m learning more

about process optimization.

As a supervisor in a campus café, I have been recognized

for redesigning two distinct work streams, which led to a

reduced wait time for guests and a more ecient closing

procedure. These improvements led directly to increased

customer satisfaction surveys and lower overtime costs.

In addition, I have held a number of leadership roles on

campus where I have facilitated large and small groups,

mentored students on eective study strategies and

problem-solving skills, and supported ﬁrst-year students

in their transition to college. My process improvement

experience combined with my leadership skills have

positioned me well for the internship at Kraft Heinz. I’m

particularly interested in scaling consumer goods and would

love to gain hands-on experience in a manufacturing plant.

I’m excited to be here today and to learn more about the

opportunity.

40 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

INTERVIEWS

QUESTIONS TO ASK EMPLOYERS

It is expected that you will ask questions throughout the interview process, especially at the end of an interview. Asking questions of

the employer demonstrates that you are engaged in the interview process, and it can also help you to get a sense of whether or not the

organization and role are a good ﬁt for you. Below you will ﬁnd several categories of questions you may wish to consider asking during

the interview process, along with sample questions to help get you started.

Clarifying Questions

These are questions that are focused on addressing questions

you have about the organization or the role for which you are

applying.

• Can you provide additional details regarding the day-to-day

responsibilities of this position?

• What type of work could I expect to do within my ﬁrst year?

• What is the organizational structure of your company?

Research-Based Questions

While preparing for the interview, it is likely that you will

come across interesting information about the company (e.g.

mergers/acquisitions, new initiatives, or changes in their

market). Asking research-based questions can demonstrate

your sincere interest in the position.

• While preparing for this interview, I read (insert researched

content). Can you tell me more about how that is impacting

your daily work?

• I noticed that (insert company) has a goal of accomplishing

(insert goal) by 2025. In your view, how is the organization

progressing toward accomplishing that goal?

Conversation-Based Questions

Throughout the process, interviewers may provide information

regarding their experiences at the organization. Asking

questions based on your conversation can be a good way to

gain valuable insight that will help you to assess your ﬁt within

the organization.

• Earlier, you mentioned (insert topic the interviewer

mentioned). Can you tell me more about that?

• You mentioned the variety of roles you have had at the

organization. How did the organization support your

professional development?

• You each made several references to the collaborative

nature of your work. Can you share more about how you

balance individual autonomy with the team aspect?

Procedural Questions

Upon completion of the interview, most interviewers will tell

you more about the next steps in the hiring process. If they

do not provide this information, it is appropriate for you to ask

procedural questions at the end of the interview.

• What are the next steps in your hiring process?

• What is your anticipated timeline for the rest of the

selection and hiring process?

• Is there any additional information you need from me

moving forward?

Example of a Common Question

TELL ME ABOUT A TIME WHEN YOU HAD A CONFLICT WITH A TEAMMATE ON A PROJECT.

First ask yourself, what do they want to know?

They want to know that you have the skills to work through conﬂict collaboratively, openly, with respect for others and the

process, and that ultimately you are able to complete projects successfully. Your response should provide evidence that

you have done this successfully in the past.

Provide evidence that you possess the skills they are looking for. In this case, the interviewer wants to know that you can

successfully navigate through conﬂict, while maintaining focus on the team’s goal and moving the project forward. In

addition, they also want to know that you will place team goals above personal objectives. Employers recognize that getting

stuck in conﬂict can create time delays, cause the project to stall, and detract from team morale. Evidence of behaviors

that interfere with progress cause concern. As you respond to the question, recognize that the interviewer is listening for

evidence of your ability to work through conﬂict collaboratively.

A strong answer demonstrates the

candidate’s ability to utilize desired

behaviors to successfully navigate

conﬂict.

• Invites, listens to, and seeks to understand another’s

point of view

• Conveys one’s own perspective in a respectful

manner

• Facilitates an open discussion and analysis of

possible solutions

• Collaborates eectively to achieve the project goals

A weak answer suggests the candidate

may lack awareness or the necessary

skills to navigate conﬂict.

• Maintains a singular focus on his/her individual

solution

• Demonstrates a lack of respect for team member(s)

and/or their ideas

• Lacks awareness of his/her role and accountability in

addressing the conﬂict

• Expects a manager/leader to solve the problem for

them

career.engin.umich.edu 41

A CLOSER LOOK AT BEHAVIORAL INTERVIEW

QUESTIONS

What Recruiters Want to Know

The best way to prepare for an interview is to understand what

the recruiters are trying to assess in the interview process

and come prepared to show evidence that you have what they

need. In most cases, recruiters and hiring managers want to

know three things:

1. Can you do the job (do you have the skills and experiences

they require)?

2. Will you do the job (do you demonstrate the interest and

motivation to perform the job)?

3. Do you demonstrate values and an approach to your work

that match the company’s values and work style?

What’s the Best Way to Respond to

Behavioral Questions?

Your resume provides a snapshot of your accomplishments, but

it doesn’t tell the reader how you accomplished these things.

Interviewers need to understand the “how” to determine

whether your approach is a good match for their environment.

As you consider your experiences and the achievements

you will describe, make sure you provide evidence of the

skills they are looking for. The most commonly required

skills or competencies include problem solving, teamwork/

collaboration, communication, etc. See page 8 for NACE Career

Readiness Skills.

INTERVIEWS

42 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

Provide a brief, complete summary of the experience you

have chosen to share. Utilize the STAR FORMULA:

Clearly deﬁne the context (when did

this situation occur? Which class, team,

internship, etc.?).

Explain the speciﬁc task you were asked

to accomplish or the speciﬁc goal of your

project.

Describe the steps you took to address

the problem or task. Use “I” statements

to explain the speciﬁc role you played in

solving the problem or overcoming the

conﬂict. In other words, answer “What

did you do?" Demonstrates logical and/or

technically sound approach to solve the

problem.

Don’t forget to tell them how the story

ends. How did things turn out? Did you

achieve the desired outcome? Make sure

to reﬂect on undesirable results and

clarify any lessons learned.

Last semester in my

Intro to Java class, we

had a partner project

that would serve as

our ﬁnal exam. The

assignment was open-

ended. Basically, we had

to take what we learned

in class and create

something cool. The

basic requirement was to

incorporate networking

(two computers talking)

and a database (place

to store data). We had

four weeks to complete

the project before a ﬁnal

presentation to our peers

and professor.

We decided to design

a multiplayer fantasy

football game simulator.

Players would determine

the plays and interact

with opponents remotely.

The code was very

complex and there were a

lot of features we wanted

to include. Midway

through, we realized we

were running out of time

and had to prioritize our

features. My partner

wanted to focus on the

graphic elements to

make the game visually

appealing for the peer

evaluation. I wanted to

incorporate more complex

coding to get a higher

evaluation from the

professor.

After losing some time

debating our positions,

I suggested that we go

through each feature

one by one, and assign a

point value to estimate

its impact on our ﬁnal

grade, and then devote

time to the features with

the greatest impact,

working through as many

as we could until time ran

out. My partner agreed.

We assumed that the

more visually appealing

features were likely to

have higher value. So we

focused ﬁrst on the team

logos and player pictures.

Then we incorporated

more advanced coding

to give players more play

options. Ultimately, we

were both satisﬁed with

our end product.

We presented a

10-minute demonstration

to our class. The ﬁnal

game included a player

information window with

multiple images (photo,

logo, etc.) and gave

players more play types.

The game was evaluated

by our professor and

approximately 100

students. We received

high marks for both

the visual appeal and

the coding complexity,

earning an A on the

project.

SITUATION

S T A R

TASK

ACTION

RESULT

THE STAR FORMULA

WHAT

HAPPENED

WHAT I DID

THE OUTCOME

SITUATION

TASK

ACTION

RESULT

A compelling STAR response to “Describe a time you had a conﬂict with a teammate on a project. What did you do? What was

the outcome?”

INTERVIEWS

career.engin.umich.edu 43

Common Interview Questions Employers

May Ask

Interest in the Company/Position

• Why do you want to work for us?

• What can you oer us that other students can’t?

• What do you know about our company?

Challenges

• Tell me about a time you were faced with failure, and how

you handled that situation.

• Tell me about a time when you didn’t achieve your objective.

• Tell about a time when you made a mistake, and how you

handled it.

• What were your main challenges in your last position

(internship/co-op/full-time)?

Goal Setting & Achievement

• Give an example of a goal you reached and tell me how you

achieved it.

• What is your overall career objective? Where do you see

yourself in 5 years?

• Tell me about a time when you surpassed all expectations

by going “above and beyond.”

Time Management

• Tell me about a time when you were faced with multiple

priorities. How did you manage that situation?

• Tell me about how you worked eectively under pressure.

Leadership Roles and Group Work

• Describe a time when you had conﬂict with another person.

What did you do in this situation? What was the outcome?

• Describe a group project that you were a part of. What

steps did you take to achieve your group's goals?

• Tell me about a time you took a leadership role.

• Share an example of how you were able to motivate

co-workers/team members.

• Describe a decision you made that was unpopular and how

you handled implementing it.

Technical Knowledge

• Describe a class project or work assignment that

challenged your skills as an engineer. What did you do in

this situation?

• What activities have you participated in to improve your

technical competence and awareness over the last year?

• Describe a time when you confronted a problem that really

tested your engineering knowledge.

• Describe a time when you used your engineering

knowledge to solve a problem for which there appeared to

be no answer.

Detail Oriented

• What checks and balances do you use to make sure that

you don’t make mistakes?

• Can you describe something you worked on that involved a

lot of detail, and how you handled it?

HOW TO PREPARE FOR VIDEO INTERVIEWS

Prepare to use the technology

Before the interview, take time to thoroughly test the

technology you will be using to avoid any unforeseen issues.

If the interview will be conducted over videoconferencing

software, try out the software in advance if possible. Bring

power cords for your devices. Test wi-ﬁ and cell service

beforehand. Make sure you have the interviewer’s phone

number, just in case you lose your connection. Silence your

phone and make sure no alarms are set (noises = distractions).

Evaluate the video frame and background

Check that there is proper lighting. Ensure the background is

clean and appropriate. For example, no unmade beds, messy

counters, or roommates walking around in the background.

Try not to have a window behind you as it can create a harsh

backlight on the screen. Check that you are not too close to the

camera. Both your face and shoulders should be in the frame.

Professional dress

Dress professionally, as though it were a face-to-face

interview. While this is especially important for a video

interview, it is recommended to dress professionally for a

phone interview, too, as dressing professionally can subtly

inﬂuence how one presents oneself.

During the interview

Have a copy of your resume on hand to reference key examples.

In a phone interview, answer your phone professionally: “Hello,

this is Betty Beyster.” In a video interview, try to look into

the camera and not at the screen when talking. This can be

challenging, so practice ahead of time.

At the beginning, it is okay to ask if they can hear you clearly

or if you should speak up. Speak clearly, concisely, and not

too quickly—it is easy to rush speech when nervous. It is ﬁne

if you need a moment to think before answering a question.

Don’t rush to ﬁll silence and remember that the interviewer

might be taking notes and may not be speaking during that time.

For longer pauses, let the interviewer know that you need a

moment to think.

INTERVIEWS

44 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

Enjoy wearing

different hats.

At Bosch, we shape the future with high-quality technologies and services

to inspire people and improve their lives. Grow with us and explore countless

new roles, positions and opportunities. Apply now at bosch.com/careers

Work

career.engin.umich.edu 45

INTERVIEWS

COMPANY CULTURE – FINDING A GOOD FIT

A savvy job seeker understands that the job search is a two-way street. It’s important to sell yourself to the employer and make

sure it’s the right job and place for you. How do you do that? By gathering and assessing information about the job and the company

culture, and determining whether it matches your needs.

What is Company Culture?

An organization’s culture reﬂects the values of its leadership

and deﬁnes what’s important; how work gets done, where the

boundaries lie, and what’s expected. Among other factors, it

includes the way information is communicated (transparent,

closed) how decisions are made (hierarchical, autonomous)

employee recognition and rewards (ﬁnancial incentives,

informal feedback, awards) and even physical environment and

amenities.

Why is Company Culture Important?

It’s important to understand a company’s culture so that you

know what you’re getting into. If your preferred work style and

values are compatible with the organization’s oerings, you’re

more likely to thrive in the environment. Alternatively, if the

cultural norms are incompatible with your preferred work style,

it may impact your performance and/or your job satisfaction.

Does the Culture Fit Me? Find Out!

DETERMINE YOUR IDEAL WORK ENVIRONMENT

You can’t match a workplace until you are clear about your own

needs. Based on your previous experiences and your values,

identify the conditions under which you will work best. Here’s a

sample list of factors to consider.

• Work Style – individual contributor, team based

• Workspace – private oce, open ﬂoor plan, remote

• Workload – heavy, moderate, light; consistent or ebbs and

ﬂows with seasonal cycles

• Impact – contribute to a long-term goal, see immediate

results of my eort

• Communication – ongoing open dialogue/communication,

feedback upon request, during formal review process

• Inclusion/Community –embrace diversity in hiring, in

thought and in approaches, foster a welcoming environment

for all

• Professional Development – opportunities for growth,

advancement, and skill development i.e. mentorship and

employer funded courses

• Work Schedule – ﬁxed hours, ﬂexible schedules at

employee’s discretion, frequent weekend and after-hours

required

DETERMINE THE COMPANY CULTURE

There are a number of ways to gather information about a

company’s culture. To get the most accurate picture, explore

a number of sources, look for consistent themes and avoid

relying too heavily on any one person’s opinion.

A. Be Inquisitive in Your Interviews

During your interviews, ask intentional questions that will

help you understand whether the environment provides the

elements that are most important to you.

SAMPLE QUESTIONS:

Work Style: Can you describe how work is distributed

and accomplished within the group? Who would I

interface with on a regular basis?

Communication: How do you prefer to communicate

with your sta? How does the company’s leadership

share information about company goals and initiatives?

Inclusion/Community: How does the team/organization

celebrate success? How are new employees included

and welcomed in the organization?

Professional Development: How does the company

support employee development? How does your

organization evaluate your employees and provide

pathways for advancement?

Work Schedule: Does the company oer ﬂexible

work options? During a typical work week, what is the

average number of hours that sta put in work?

46 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

INTERVIEWS

B. Talk to Other Employees (Current and Past)

Talk to people in various positions and across levels of the

organization through multiple touchpoints; career fairs,

networking conversations, etc. In addition, ﬁnd contacts in

your own networks (alumni are a great resource) who would

be willing to talk with you. Ask them what it’s really like to

work there, making sure you ask about the positive aspects

as well as the challenges, so that you get the full picture.

C. Pay Attention to Your Instincts, Observations, and Company

Amenities

Trust your instincts. Look for consistent themes in the

feedback you are collecting. Explore conﬂicting messages

further. Look for evidence to support what you’re hearing

when you visit the site or as you continue to engage with

employees.

Seemingly small details about oce life can be telling

about the culture. An on-site cafeteria with free food at all

hours may be a very generous beneﬁt, yet may also be a

sign that work is often conducted through breakfast, lunch

and dinner. Similarly, widely publicized games, contests

and social gatherings may indicate a social, collaborative,

competitive environment. Ask about these items to be sure

your interpretation is accurate.

DECISION TIME - IS IT A FIT?

You know what’s important to you and you understand what

the company has to oer. Does the opportunity satisfy your

top criteria? If so, it sounds like you’re aligned with company

culture and it’s likely to be a good ﬁt. If not, and you’re still

considering the opportunity, what’s your motivation to accept

the job? Sometimes there are compelling reasons to accept

a job (ﬁnancial need, get you closer to your next goal, etc.),

even if it falls short of your ideal. If this is the case, focus

on the positive aspects of the opportunity and adjust your

expectations and approach to make it work.

Sample Thank-You Note

Dear [Contact],

Thank you for taking time to speak with me yesterday

about the production engineer position with Cyberdyne

Systems. I enjoyed meeting you and learning more about

the role and organization.

After speaking with you, I am conﬁdent that my skills

and past experiences would make me a good match for

the opportunity. As we discussed, I believe my ability to

quickly learn how to operate unfamiliar software as well

as my past design experience would be great assets in

estimating costs and monitoring production.

I am enthusiastic about the exciting opportunity to join

your company. Please do not hesitate to contact me at

555-123-4567 or [email protected] if you have any

questions or concerns, or need any further information.

Again, thank you so much for your consideration. I look

forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

NAME

By doing your homework and learning as

much as you can about the environment,

you'll be more conﬁdent in your decision-

making and better prepared for your next

steps.

career.engin.umich.edu 47

INTERVIEWS

GUIDE TO APPROPRIATE PRE-EMPLOYMENT

INQUIRIES

INQUIRY AREA

ILLEGAL QUESTIONS LEGAL QUESTIONS

Age

• May not require an applicant's age, date of birth,

or records to prove his/her age.

• Year of graduation from high school.

An employer may ask whether an individual meets

the minimum age requirements set by law. "Are you

over the age of 18?" is an appropriate question.

National Origin/

Citizenship

• Are you a U.S. citizen?

• Where were you/your parents born?

• What is your "native tongue"?

Are you authorized to work in the

Unites States?

Race/Color

All questions regarding a person's race/color

will be deemed illegal under state and federal laws.

None!

Religion

Any question with regard to an applicant's religious

beliefs, denomination, or any questions that indicate

religious customs or holidays observed.

After an individual is hired, an employer may

inquire about religous accommodations.

Marital/Family

Status

• Are you married?

• With whom do you live?

• Do you plan to have a family?

• What are your child-care arrangements?

• Would you be willing to relocate if necessary?

• Would you be able and willing to work overtime

as necessary?

Personal

• How tall are you?

• How much do you weigh?

Are you able to lift a 50-pound weight and carry it

100 yards, as that is part of the job?

Disabilities

• Do you have any disabilities?

• Please complete the following medical history.

• How's your family's health?

• Are you able to perform the essential job

functions?

• Can you demonstrate how you would perform

the following job-related functions?

Arrest Record Have you ever been arrested? Have you ever been convicted of ______?

Military

If you've been in the military, were you honorably

discharged?

• In what branch of the Armed Forces did you

serve?

• What type of training or education did you

receive in the military?

Reprinted from the February 2014 issue of the NACE Journal, with permission of the National Association of Colleges and Employers

48 Michigan Engineering Career Guide

YOU HAVE AN OFFER; NOW WHAT?

Congratulations on your oer! Taking the next steps in your

professional endeavors is exciting but also challenging. In

order to make the best decision for you, make sure you have

considered the answers to these questions:

• Where is the job located, and what is is like to live in that

area?

• What kind of work will I be doing?

• How will this position ﬁt in with my overall career goals?

• How much time do I have to make a decision? Can I ask for

an extension?

• Do my values and lifestyle match the company's culture?

• What are the growth and trends of the industry and

organization?

For internships:

• Is housing provided? Is it subsidized?

• What options are available for transportation to the

work site?

• How will I be paired with a team?

One Thing to Remember: It’s Not Just About the

Salary

When it comes to making a decision about accepting a job

oer, base salary is just one factor to consider. Think about

what is important to you and your career goals; understand the

whole package. When an oer is presented to you, consider

the items below when making a decision. Please note that the

beneﬁts listed below are examples and that not every oer will

include all the items listed. There may also be beneﬁts oered

that are not listed.

If the oer does not meet one or more of the things you want, consider negotiating. Not every company will be willing to negotiate,

but you can certainly try! Companies do not typically revoke oers when candidates negotiate. When negotiating, be positive,

polite, and reasonable. If you decide to negotiate, plan a strategy after speaking with a Career Services Manager in the ECRC. To

make an appointment log into your Engineering Careers, by 12twenty account and select Appointments from the navigation menu.

• Medical

• Dental

• Vision

• Paid Time O (PTO)

• 401K/403B Retirement Savings

• Stock Options/Equity

• Domestic Partner Coverage

• Jury Duty

• Bereavement

• FMLA and Maternity/Paternity

Leave

• Relocation Assistance

• Signing Bonus/Annual Bonus

• Tuition Reimbursement

• Opportunity for Career Growth

• Collaboration Opportunities

• Involvement in Professional

Organizations

• Leadership Tracks

• Rotational Programs

• Professional Travel

• Dress Code

• Ability to Work from Home

• Location(s)

• Management Style

• Oce Space

• Performance Reviews

Beneﬁts Professional Development Company Culture/Values

EVALUATING OFFERS

career.engin.umich.edu 49

EVALUATING OFFERS

Tips for Oer Negotiation

• Do your homework before entering into a negotiation.

Conduct research using ECRC salary data (career.engin.

umich.edu/career/salary-info), websites such as Salary.

com, Glassdoor, and/or cost of living calculators (salary.

com/research/cost-of-living), etc. These tools will help you

in determining how much to ask for and why.

• Plan your strategy around your research, your leveraging

tools, and who you are communicating with. We

recommend negotiating with the company representative

you have had the most contact with and are the most

comfortable speaking to.

• Make sure to practice before negotiating. Practicing

will decrease nervousness and increase your ability to

articulate your desires.

• ALWAYS maintain a positive and productive tone in the

negotiation. You do not want to jeopardize your reputation or

your relationship with the employer.

• See the Extending an Oer Deadline example below.

Accepting an Oer

Accepting an oer of employment, whether verbally or in

writing, represents your good-faith commitment to join the

employing organization. Once you have accepted an oer,

discontinue all further interviewing and search activities,

including withdrawing from previously scheduled interviews.

Reneging on an Oer

Reneging on oers can damage your reputation in the industry,

as well as the reputation of Michigan Engineering. We expect

all students to conduct themselves professionally and ethically

in their job search. Please see Oers and Acceptance Policy

for more detail on the consequences of retracting committed

oers. This can be found at career.engin.umich.edu/career/

job-search-policies.

NEGOTIATING AN OFFER DEADLINE

Sample Talking Points

EXPRESS APPRECIATION:

I want to thank you for the opportunity to interview at

(employer) and for the oer of the (name of position/

department).

OFFER A POSITIVE EXPERIENCE ABOUT THE

PROCESS/POSITION:

From the beginning I have been impressed with the team

and the people that I would be working with. This oer is

very appealing and I am excited to consider it.

ACKNOWLEDGE DEADLINE:

I understand the deadline for this oer is (date). (Refer

brieﬂy to why you might need the extra time, e.g.: exams,

consult with family, other commitments, etc.

RESPECTFULLY REQUEST A DEADLINE EXTENSION:

Given the importance of this decision for me, I am hoping

you would allow me additional time to consider your oer. If

you are in agreement, I would be happy to provide you with

my decision by (date).

EXAMPLE WORDING - REFERRING TO THE ECRC

EMPLOYER OFFER GUIDELINES

I would be grateful if you could consider extending my

deadline to November 30 in accordance with the University

of Michigan’s Engineering Career Resource Center’s oer

guidelines regarding internship and full-time employment.

The ECRC recommends a phone conversation when negotiating any aspect of an oer including a deadline extension. To learn

more about our recommended guidelines, please visit: career.engin.umich.edu/OerDeadlines

I would be grateful if you could consider extending

my deadline to November 30 in accordance with the

University of Michigan’s Engineering Career Resource

Center’s oer guidelines regarding internship and full-

time employment.

Sample Email to Decline a Job Oer

Hello [Contact],

Thank you for the POSITION NAME oer at COMPANY

NAME. It has been wonderful getting to know the team

at COMPANY NAME through the interview process. I

sincerely appreciate the time you spent with me and your

consideration of my candidacy. Ultimately, I have decided

to accept another position that is a better ﬁt for me at this

time in my career. I remain impressed with the company

and team at COMPANY NAME and hope we have the

opportunity to connect in the future.

Sincerely,

NAME

career.engin.umich.edu 51

GRADUATE SCHOOL

APPLYING TO GRADUATE SCHOOL

Graduate School can be an excellent way to deepen your knowledge in a speciﬁc

subject, expand your knowledge into a new ﬁeld, or build upon your professional

skills. There are several common paths for pursuing graduate education such as

professional master’s programs, thesis based master’s programs, and doctoral

programs. Each program will help you to pursue dierent goals, so it’s important

for you to reﬂect on how graduate school ﬁts into your long term career goals. For

additional information on applying to graduate school see career.engin.umich.edu/

GraduateSchoolGuide.

STANDARDIZED TESTS

One of the common tests for graduate

school is the GRE, which typically should

be completed at least 2 months before

the application is due to ensure the

school receives it in a timely manner.

APPLICATION ESSAYS

Common graduate essays are the

personal statement and statement of

purpose. The length of these essays

range from 1-2 pages and you should

pay close attention to each program's

individual prompt.

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

The statement of purpose differs

from the personal statement, as its

major function is in describing how

you are prepared, what you hope to

accomplish, and how graduate school

will help you to meet your short- and

long-term career goals.

COMMON MISTAKES

Disorganization. Read through your

essays and ensure that there are clear

transitions and that the ideas build upon

one another to get your point across.

Using cliches. Avoid the generalizations

like "This is my dream school…" or

"When I was a kid I loved playing with

Legos…." Instead, try to explain your

reasoning with specific examples.

APPLICATION TIMELINES

Fall: PhD, MBA, MS, MA, MENG

applications are due.

Spring: Some MBA and MENG

applications are available at this time

as well.

RECOMMENDATION LETTERS

Make sure to give your recommendation

writers at least one month to write your

letter. Typically graduate programs will

ask for 1-3 recommendation letters.

Choose your recommendations carefully

and think about who will be able to

enthusiastically speak to your abilities.

PERSONAL STATEMENT

A personal statement enables you

to elaborate on your background, to

explore your personal motivations for

attending graduate school, and often to

highlight your unique life experiences or

challenges you have overcome.

WRITING TIPS

Be personal. Essays, especially

personal statements, provide

an opportunity to let admissions

committees know who you are beyond

GPA and test scores.

Be engaging. Committees read many

essays. You want yours to stand out,

maintain their attention, and say

something meaningful about you.

Engineering Career Resource Center

230 Chrysler Center

2121 Bonisteel Boulevard

Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-2092

(734) 647-7160

[email protected]

career.engin.umich.edu

Michigan, 48109

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/armative

action employer.

Produced by Michigan Creative, a unit of the Oce of the Vice

President for Communications. MC230141