Intro
As an adjunct professor, you're likely no stranger to the world of academia. You've spent years honing your craft, teaching students, and developing curricula. However, when it comes to creating a resume, you may find yourself struggling to stand out in a crowded job market. A well-crafted resume is essential for securing a full-time teaching position, getting hired at a new institution, or even transitioning into a non-academic career. In this article, we'll provide you with 10 essential tips for creating a compelling adjunct professor resume that showcases your skills, experience, and achievements.
Tip 1: Tailor Your Resume to the Job
When applying for a full-time teaching position or a non-academic job, it's essential to tailor your resume to the specific job requirements. Study the job description carefully and incorporate relevant keywords into your resume. This will help your resume pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and catch the eye of hiring managers.
Use Language from the Job Description
Use language from the job description to describe your skills and experience. For example, if the job description mentions "curriculum development," be sure to include that phrase in your resume, especially if you have experience developing curricula.
Tip 2: Highlight Your Teaching Experience
As an adjunct professor, your teaching experience is your most valuable asset. Highlight your teaching experience by including the following information:
- Course titles and numbers
- Institutions where you taught
- Dates of employment
- Number of students taught
- Any notable achievements or awards
Quantify Your Teaching Experience
Use numbers to quantify your teaching experience. For example, instead of saying "taught several courses," say "taught 10 courses per semester to over 500 students."
Tip 3: Emphasize Your Subject Matter Expertise
As an adjunct professor, you have a deep understanding of your subject area. Emphasize your subject matter expertise by including the following information:
- Relevant degrees and certifications
- Research experience and publications
- Presentations and conference papers
- Any notable awards or recognition
Showcase Your Research Experience
If you have research experience, be sure to showcase it on your resume. Include information about your research projects, including the title, dates, and any notable findings.
Tip 4: Highlight Your Service and Leadership Experience
As an adjunct professor, you may have experience serving on departmental or institutional committees, or leading student organizations. Highlight your service and leadership experience by including the following information:
- Committee memberships and leadership roles
- Student organization leadership roles
- Community service and volunteer work
Quantify Your Service Experience
Use numbers to quantify your service experience. For example, instead of saying "served on several committees," say "served on 5 committees, including the curriculum committee and the diversity committee."
Tip 5: Include Relevant Skills and Certifications
As an adjunct professor, you have a range of skills that are valuable in academia and beyond. Include relevant skills and certifications, such as:
- Language proficiency
- Technical skills (e.g. Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite)
- Pedagogical certifications (e.g. online teaching certification)
- Any other relevant certifications or licenses
Highlight Your Technical Skills
As an adjunct professor, you likely have technical skills that are valuable in academia and beyond. Highlight your technical skills by including information about your proficiency in software applications, programming languages, and other technical tools.
Tip 6: Use Action Verbs and Dynamic Language
Use action verbs and dynamic language to describe your experience and skills. Avoid passive voice and instead use active voice to describe your achievements. For example, instead of saying "responsible for teaching courses," say "taught courses to over 500 students."
Use Verbs that Emphasize Achievement
Use verbs that emphasize achievement, such as "increased," "improved," "developed," and "managed." For example, instead of saying "taught courses," say "developed and taught courses to over 500 students, resulting in a 25% increase in student engagement."
Tip 7: Use a Clear and Concise Format
Use a clear and concise format to make your resume easy to read. Use bullet points, white space, and clear headings to make your resume scannable.
Use Bullet Points to Break Up Text
Use bullet points to break up text and make your resume more readable. Bullet points are especially useful for listing multiple items, such as courses taught or research experience.
Tip 8: Proofread Carefully
Proofread your resume carefully to catch any spelling, grammar, or formatting errors. A single error can make a negative impression on hiring managers.
Get Feedback from Others
Get feedback from others, such as colleagues or mentors, to catch any errors or areas for improvement. Use their feedback to revise your resume and make it more effective.
Tip 9: Use Relevant Section Headings
Use relevant section headings to organize your resume and make it easy to scan. Common section headings for adjunct professors include:
- Education
- Teaching Experience
- Research Experience
- Service and Leadership Experience
- Skills and Certifications
Use Action Verbs in Section Headings
Use action verbs in section headings to make them more dynamic. For example, instead of saying "Teaching Experience," say "Taught Courses to Over 500 Students."
Tip 10: Keep it Concise
Keep your resume concise by focusing on the most important information. Aim for a length of 1-2 pages, depending on your level of experience.
Focus on Achievements
Focus on achievements rather than responsibilities. Instead of saying "responsible for teaching courses," say "taught courses to over 500 students, resulting in a 25% increase in student engagement."
Gallery of Adjunct Professor Resume Examples
Adjunct Professor Resume Examples
By following these 10 essential tips, you can create a compelling adjunct professor resume that showcases your skills, experience, and achievements. Remember to tailor your resume to the job, highlight your teaching experience, and use action verbs and dynamic language. With a strong resume, you'll be well on your way to securing a full-time teaching position or transitioning into a non-academic career.