Hello everybody!
This is my first post on this website, I do hope I am writing in the right section for what I'm about to ask.
I have just completed writing my CV and Cover Letter to apply for a job in London, and I'd like somebody to give a look at it. I don't need you to evaluate the content, but only the way it is written.
Here it goes (I'll paste just some extracts), thank you VERY much for any suggestion/correction you might want to post.
Personal
profile
Graduate
structural engineer, numerically confident and analytical in approach; reliable
and conscientious; able to manage time effectively and comfortable working
independently as well as part of a team; able to organize, prioritize and carry
out multiple duties in order to meet deadlines; accurate and methodical;
looking forward to working towards chartership and transferring the academic
knowledge into a high-level professional activity.
Education
1999-2006 Master’s
degree in Civil Engineering; specialization
in structural engineering.
Politecnico
di Milano (Milano University of Technology), Milan, Italy.
Thesis:
Thermo-mechanical characterization of high-strength self-compacting concrete
exposed to high temperatures.
Final
mark: 93/100
2002-2003 Helsinki
University of Technology, Finland. Exchange student.
1994-1999 Liceo
Scientifico L. Cremona, Milan,
Italy.
Secondary
School with emphasis on scientific subjects.
Final
mark: 100/100
Technical
skills
§
Solid and extensive
theoretical background. Subjects studied included: bridge engineering,
structural analysis and design, seismic design, structural stability, dynamics
of structures, hydraulic engineering, soil
mechanics, advanced concrete and steel design, precast concrete structures,
highway engineering.
§
Knowledge of British
Standards and Eurocodes
§
Non-linear structural
analysis with software packages such as Sap2000, Staad Pro, and Straus7
§
Creation of designs and
detailed drawings with AutoCAD
§
Basics of concrete and
steel structure detailing with Graitec Advance and Tekla Structures
§
Structural design for
fire safety
§
Experimental methods and
testing procedures for the assessment of structural material properties
Academic
achievements
§ Vast experimental
campaign in collaboration with Italcementi Group and development of innovative
experimental techniques in assessing mechanical and thermal properties of
self-compacting concrete.
§
Publication of a
scientific paper: [ ... ]
§
Development of full
projects in different areas of study: post-tensioned concrete highway bridge;
multi-storey steel building in seismic zone; precast industrial building;
two-way mountain road.
[...]
- - - - - - - - - - - - - -
COVER LETTER
22 February 2007
Peter Morrison
Marketing Manager
ABC Inc.
(Address)
Dear Mr. Morrison
I am
writing to enquire whether you have a vacancy in your company for a graduate MSc
structural engineer. I enclose a copy of my CV for your consideration.
During my studies I developed a broad theoretical background, provided
by a full-time involvement in my academic studies. I also took part in
different work groups, developing a variety of schemes from feasibility
assessment to design and production of detailed definitive drawings. I was able
to work under pressure and produced results at a short notice, meeting weekly
deadlines. The experience has taught me the importance of teamwork.
For
a year I worked in the laboratory of the structural engineering department at
the Milan University of Technology, conducting a vast and important research
project commissioned by Italcementi Group for the assessment of mechanical and
thermal properties of self-compacting concrete. I was able to maintain a high
standard of work throughout the whole project, even when under pressure and on
tight deadlines. My approach was methodical, and required minimum supervision. I
was trusted with high-technology equipment and delicate testing procedures,
being recognized as dependable and hard-working. The novelty of the
experimental results led to the publication of a scientific paper that will
also be presented in a major international conference in mid June 2007.
I
studied for a year at the Helsinki University of Technology within the Erasmus
programme. This experience has been essential in developing a good capability
to adapt to change as well as excellent interpersonal skills.
I have excellent computer skills and I am proficient with finite element
analysis packages as well as with computer-aided design software. I have always
enjoyed learning how to use new software applications; at the moment I am
studying two major structure detailing software such as Graitec Advance and
Tekla Structures. I have a good knowledge of the most important codes of
practise, including the British standards and the Eurocodes.
My ambition leads me to look forward to a continuous professional
development. I look forward to pursue a professional certification as well as
constantly update my technical skills, both through further education and
experience in the field. I am looking for a stimulating and challenging job that
would provide me with the opportunity to use my technical abilities as well as
my problem-solving skills.
Thank you for your
time reviewing my credentials. I look forward to a personal interview at your
convenience.
Yours sincerely,
[name omitted]