UF CVM Careers November Newsletter

Welcome to the November edition of the UF CVM Careers monthly newsletter! We would like to extend a big thank you to the UF CVM VBMA and Francesca Lerner, Vice President, for helping us organize an amazing Career Day last month.

We encourage you to keep up-to-date by following our Facebook page and watching for emails about dinners, workshops, and more!  

Student Tip

Creating an Email Cover Letter

The job search process is a lot different today than it was 50 years ago. More and more often, veterinarians are sending job applications through email. When submitting job application materials (like your resume) as an email attachment, your email itself acts as your cover letter. Here are some tips on how to write a high quality email cover letter.

1. Use a professional email address – First, before you start drafting your letter, make sure your email address is professional. Along with the subject line, your email address is the first thing the employer will see – it is your first impression. If you are using an informal address that you created years ago like funnygal@oldemail.com or crazymike@email.com, it may be a good idea to open a new account specifically for communication between you and hiring companies. Get a new professional address that includes your first and last name, if possible.  Try to avoid any address that could be easily misspelled which includes just portions of your name (ex. smit for Smith).

2. State your name and job in the subject – In the subject line of the email, clearly, state the position you are applying for and also include your name. This way, the hiring manager will know, at a glance, that you are writing to apply for a job. With a clear subject line, the employer is more likely to read the email. Also be sure to proofread your subject line before sending the email – a typo in the subject line is not a good first impression, and might lead to your email being deleted!

3. Start with a greeting – If possible, greet a particular person in your letter. Figuring out the recipient may be as easy as reading the name on the email address in which you are sending your resume. If it isn’t that obvious, double check the job listing to see if a name is mentioned. You can also check the company website (see if there is a directory or list of staff members), or call the company and ask the administrative assistant for help. If none of this works, you can use a greeting like “Dear Hiring Manager.”

4. What to include – An email cover letter includes pretty much the same content as a hard copy cover letter, with a few optional additions. Start your letter by expressing your interest in the job opening, and mention the job title by name. Follow this with some of your previous experience that will show the reader that you are qualified for the position. Focus on specific examples when explaining that you have certain qualities or skills. Make sure all of the information you include is directly related to the job for which you are applying. Do not be afraid to brag a little bit about your accomplishments; this is the time to “sell” yourself to them.  Email cover letters are usually significantly shorter than attachment cover letters as well.

5. Close with a thank you and a signature - Finally, close your email cover letter with a thank you and express your readiness to meet the hiring manager in person for an interview. You might also want to add that your resume is attached to the email (if this is the case). Then, include a closing (such as “Best” or “Sincerely”) and your full name. Underneath your name, include an email signature. It is something you can set up on your email account. It appears at the bottom of every email you send and includes important contact details, such as your email address and phone number. It might also include your full address, employment information, or a link to your LinkedIn profile.

6. Attach your resume (unless told otherwise) - Attach your resume to your email message in the format requested by the employer. If a specific format isn't required, send it as a PDF. Of course, do not do this if the employer specifically tells you to submit your resume in some other way (such as through a website or via mail).

The tips in this edition are credited to https://www.thebalancecareers.com. To see an example of an email cover letter, please visit this article.

Looking Ahead to Events

Learn more by clicking the links and don't forget to RSVP for food events!

UF Vet Med Homecoming Tailgate - Saturday, November 3rd, 2018; Come join us for our annual tailgate before the Gators take on Missouri! There will be a photo booth, tours, meals, a kid-zone, complimentary shuttles to the game, and more!

Application Deadline for the Match - Monday, December 3rd, 2018, 9 p.m. EST; Last date for applicant to complete Application Packet online and apply to programs. Transcripts and Letters of Reference due to the VIRMP.

Highlighted Gator CareerLink Job Postings

We have over 130 jobs currently listed on our job widget, below are the three most recent.  Click on the button below to view all of them.

Associate Veterinarian

Blue Ridge Pet Clinic (Show Low, AZ)

Posting Date: Oct 24, 2018

 Associate Veterinarian

Belleview Veterinary Hospital (Belleview, FL)

Posting Date: Oct 23, 2018

Associate Veterinarian

National Veterinary Associates (Beaufort, SC)

Posting Date: Oct 19, 2018

For the full list of all current job postings, please click the link below

UF CVM Careers Facebook Page

Interested in staying up to date with career opportunities and other career related information that is accessible to you? Consider following us on our Facebook Page!  Check out the three most recent visitor posts below:

For requests to receive this newsletter or include information or events in this newsletter please contact Katelyn Jerles at jerles@ufl.edu.