Highlight your coding projects

Hiring managers want to see that you have hands-on experience with coding. The best way to show this is by including your coding projects on your resume.

Don't just list the project name. Instead, give details about what the project was, the technologies you used, and your specific role. Use numbers and metrics to show the impact of your work.

• Developed a mobile app for a campus event with 500+ users, using React Native, Node.js, and MongoDB
• Created a machine learning model to predict housing prices with 90% accuracy, using Python and TensorFlow

Avoid vague or generic descriptions that don't give any real information about your work:

• Worked on a coding project for a class
• Built a website

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   Show your technical skills

As a software engineer intern, your technical skills are crucial. Make sure to list the programming languages, tools, and technologies you know on your resume.

Be specific about your level of experience with each skill. Use words like 'proficient', 'familiar', or 'expert' to give context.

• Proficient in Java, Python, and C++
• Familiar with React, Angular, and Vue.js
• Expert in SQL and database management

Avoid just listing skills without any context:

• Java, Python, C++, React, Angular, Vue.js, SQL

   Include relevant coursework

As an intern, you may not have a lot of work experience yet. That's okay! Your coursework can help show your knowledge and skills.

List any classes, projects, or labs that are relevant to software engineering. Include details about what you learned and any tools or technologies you used.

• Data Structures and Algorithms: Implemented various data structures like linked lists, stacks, and queues in C++
• Web Development: Built a full-stack web app using React, Node.js, and MongoDB

Don't just list course names without any details:

• Data Structures and Algorithms
• Web Development

   Emphasize your soft skills

While technical skills are important, soft skills are also crucial for success as a software engineer intern. Hiring managers want to see that you can communicate effectively, work well in a team, and learn quickly.

Look for ways to highlight your soft skills throughout your resume. For example:

• Collaborated with a team of 5 students to build a mobile app, using Agile methodologies
• Presented a machine learning project to a group of 30+ students and faculty
• Quickly learned and applied new concepts in a fast-paced startup environment

Avoid generic or vague statements that don't show your skills in action:

• Team player
• Good communicator
• Fast learner

   Tailor your resume to the job

Every software engineer internship is different, so it's important to tailor your resume to the specific job you're applying for. Look at the job description and highlight any skills, technologies, or experience that match what they're looking for.

For example, if the job description mentions Java and Android development, make sure to emphasize any Java or Android projects you've worked on:

Android App Developer Intern

Developed and launched a mobile app for a campus event with 500+ users, using Java and Android Studio. Implemented features like user authentication, push notifications, and in-app purchases.

Avoid using the same generic resume for every job application. It's okay to have a base resume, but make sure to customize it for each specific job.

   Keep it concise and easy to read

Hiring managers often have to review hundreds of resumes for each internship position. Make it easy for them to quickly see your relevant skills and experience by keeping your resume concise and easy to read.

Aim for a one-page resume if possible, and use clear headings and bullet points to organize your content. Use a simple, professional font and make sure there's plenty of white space.

Here's an example of a well-organized education section:

B.S. in Computer Science, XYZ University, Expected May 2024
GPA: 3.8/4.0
Relevant Coursework:
- Data Structures and Algorithms
- Web Development
- Database Systems

Avoid long paragraphs, tiny fonts, or cluttered layouts that make your resume hard to read. And don't include irrelevant information like your hobbies or high school education.