Résumés and cover letters
A strong résumé is not simply a record of your past experiences—it is a targeted marketing document that shows how your skills, accomplishments, and qualifications align with the employer's needs.
When writing a cover letter and résumé for a job application, we recommend tailoring them to each opportunity, highlighting your achievements and impact, prioritizing your most relevant experiences, keeping the documents clear and easy to scan, and presenting yourself professionally through polished, error-free writing.
New to Canada? International education and work experience are also valid and valuable on your résumé.
Explore these guides to learn how to create professional documents that highlight your skills, experience, and accomplishments. If you need help getting started or want your application reviewed, book an appointment.
Finding a job
Whether you're looking for part-time work while studying or hoping to gain more experience related to your career goals, there are many opportunities available both on and off campus.
For on-campus jobs, check UVic’s Career page, the Student Union Building (SUB), Work-Study programs, or departments like Alumni and Development. For off-campus jobs, browse the Learning in Motion Portal and try industry-specific job boards to find roles that fit your interests and skills.
Work on-campus
There are many job opportunities on campus.
Work off-campus
UVic students have access to hundreds of job opportunities posted by employers on the Career Portal.
Discover job opportunities beyond online applications
Some of the best job opportunities aren’t always posted online—they’re part of the “hidden job market.” Along with searching online job boards, focus on networking, making connections with other professionals in your field, and reaching out to organizations you’re interested in. By getting to know people, learning about employers, and staying active in your industry, you’ll discover more opportunities, including some that aren’t advertised yet. Consider volunteering, attending career events, and connecting with alumni on LinkedIn.
Career events
Check out our career events to meet with industry professionals on campus. Industry panels, career fairs, and other events will be posted here.
Career information meetings
A career information meeting is an informational meeting with someone working in a field you’re curious about. It’s a chance to ask questions and learn more about what it’s really like to work in that industry, company, or career path. By asking questions, you’ll gain clearer insights into the daily reality of the job, possible entry points, and future career paths. This information can help you make informed choices about your education and career plans.
Learn about how to set up a Career Information Meeting and great questions to ask in the following guide.
Interview preparation
The interview is your chance to show who you are beyond your résumé. To prepare, research the organization, review the job posting, and think of clear examples from your own experience that show you have the right skills. During the interview, speak clearly, listen carefully, and share specific stories and examples of your professional accomplishments rather than general statements. By asking thoughtful questions, staying professional, and sending a follow-up note after the interview, you’ll make a great impression.
For a list of sample interview questions and interview formats, visit the Co-op and Career interview page.