10 ways to make your resume and application stand out

Submitting an application is more than just sharing your resume. It’s your first chance to impress a potential employer or a mentor reviewing your application for an ORISE internship or fellowship. In competitive markets, a thoughtful, tailored application can make all the difference. Here are a few tips to help your application stand out from the rest:

1. Read the posting carefully

Before you begin, take the time to thoroughly review the posting. It's easy to overlook crucial details when skimming. Pay attention to specific instructions, qualifications, and keywords used in the description. Within the Zintellect Opportunity Catalog, most qualifications and eligibility requirements are located near the bottom of the opportunity posting, so be sure to read all the way to the end.

2. Optimize your resume with keywords

Review the description for recurring themes and then integrate relevant keywords into your resume. Whether it's technical skills, industry-specific terms, or soft skills like collaboration and adaptability, mirroring the language the organization uses helps highlight your fit for the role.

3. Highlight achievements, not just duties

Listing responsibilities is important, but what really stands out are accomplishments. Use metrics and concrete outcomes where possible to demonstrate the impact of your work. For example, did you contribute to the design of an experiment that improved data collection efficiency by 25%? Assist in the development of a software tool that automated a repetitive task and saved 10 hours per week? Or play a leadership role on a team project that resulted in a published paper or a prototype? Demonstrating impact and showcasing real-world results help reviewers see the value you can bring to their organization.

4. Demonstrate a growth mindset

Reviewers value candidates who show a willingness to learn and adapt. Highlight examples of how you've taken initiative to acquire new skills, overcome challenges, or improve processes. If you're a current student or recent graduate, emphasize coursework, internships, or projects where you demonstrated curiosity and a drive to grow professionally. This signals that you're ready to contribute and evolve within the role.

5. Keep formatting clean and readable

Use a clear, organized layout for your resume. Stick to standard fonts, use headings and bullet points, and ensure consistent spacing. A tidy format not only improves readability but also signals professionalism. Keep your resume to 1–2 pages, depending on your experience.

6. Proofread thoroughly

Carefully review every part of your application for any grammatical errors or typos, including your resume, cover letter, and form responses. Always ask at least one person you trust to proofread as well. A polished application communicates attention to detail.

TIP: Try reading your application (or resume) backwards, starting from the last sentence to the first. This forces your eye to focus on each word individually and helps you catch typos or other errors. Use spell and grammar check but always do a manual review as well.

7. Tailor your cover letter to the role

Even if a cover letter is optional, consider submitting one whenever possible. A well-crafted cover letter allows you to tell a compelling story about your background, showcase your enthusiasm for the role, and directly align your skills and experiences with the internship, fellowship, or job requirements. Demonstrating genuine interest and tailoring your message to the position can help you stand out positively among other candidates.

8. Track your applications

If you’re applying for multiple roles, especially within the same organization, keep a detailed record of where and what you've applied for, including the title, reference code, posting link, and any important details. This helps you stay organized and ready when a mentor or employer reaches out. Using a spreadsheet is a good method to monitor and avoid duplicate applications or confusion. This information is also important to use when you follow-up on your application or connect with a selecting mentor (if listed) to let them know of your interest and introduce yourself.  

TIP: ORISE administers paid internship and fellowship programs for the Department of Energy and 25+ other federal departments and agencies. We encourage you to search the Zintellect Opportunity Catalog and apply to as many of the opportunities you are interested in and eligible for based on your STEM research and technical interests!

9. Polish your online presence

Whether you are being considered for an internship or for a full-time position, reviewers often check social media as part of their screening process. Audit your accounts for professionalism and remove any content that doesn’t reflect well on you. A simple, active LinkedIn profile can further enhance your credibility and show that you're engaged with your industry.

10. Include volunteer or extracurricular activities

If you're early in your career or transitioning industries, don’t overlook the experience you’ve gained outside of the office or lab. Volunteering, student projects, or leadership in community groups can showcase transferable skills such as teamwork, responsibility, and initiative.

Creating an outstanding application takes preparation and personalization. By approaching each application with care and a strategic mindset, you can increase your chances of moving one step closer to your next opportunity.

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