1. Career Materials
Epic Fails to Avoid
Rachael Wendler, University of Arizona

2. Resume Fail: Going Over One Page
Unnecessarily
Tips: Spacing (5 pt “font” for empty lines), columns, wordiness, relevance.
Make every word count!

3. Personal Statement Fail:
Being General/Generic
Tips: Get specific– concrete images, stories, details!
Write a statement that only YOU can write. AVOID CLICHES!

4. Cover Letter Fail:
Not Tailoring for the Specific Job Ad
Tips: Use language and ideas from job ad qualifications and duties, spend more time
on relevant things, take out jobs/duties that are not relevant, highlight transferrable
skills

5. Personal Statement Fail:
Not Making the Key Moves
1. Explain reason to pursue the proposed study
2. Establishing credentials related to the field (academic, research, professional
experiences, insider status)
3. Stating future career goals and specializations
4. (Optional) Relevant life experience
5. Explaining the match to this particular program

6. Resume Fail: Profile Statement
Formatted Incorrectly
Tips: Check out
the examples,
write in
“resume-speak”
fragments with
no “I.”

7. Personal Statement Fail:
Providing No Proof
Tip: Back up your important statements with accomplishments/stories that
prove them. Don’t say you’re interested in helping people, with no evidence!

8. Wishing You All Epic WINS!