Bethany College Office of Career & Professional Development
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Credential File
(Letters of Recommendation, Resume, Certifications)

If you have not yet set up your Credential File in the Office of Career Services, especially if you are a junior or senior, please fill out FORM1 and FORM2 and drop them off at Morlan Hall room 8.  These forms need to be completed, signed and returned to Career Services before your file can be processed.  

A Credential File is a packet of materials which provides prospective employers or graduate/professional schools support to your application/resume, specifically Letters of Recommendation.  DO NOT WAIT UNTIL GRADUATION TO SET UP YOUR FILE AND COLLECT RECOMMENDATION LETTERS!  At your request, wewill mail your credentials to graduate schools or other potential employers.

Typically, a Credential File contains copies of:
•   A current resume
•   Three to five reference letters (also called Letters of Recommendation) with an attached completed  FORM3
•   Relevant professional certifications (e.g. teachers, counselors, CPA’s etc.)
•   Student teaching evaluations (education majors)

How do I obtain the materials for my file?

Most employers prefer employment or school related references, rather than personal or character references.  Good reference sources include people who you feel have a positive impression of your work in the classroom, workplace (including community), or on campus:

•   Faculty
•   Work Supervisor
•   Campus Administrators or Advisor
•   Community Leaders
 
When asking for letters of recommendation, ask your selected individual(s) if they feel they know you well enough to write a strong letter of recommendation for you.  This will allow them to decline if they feel they may not be able to write a strong letter on your behalf.  Provide your reference with a current resume; this will give them a broader view of your experience and qualifications.  Copies of typical job listings in which you are interested will also help your reference to identify the most relevant aspects of your background to highlight in the letter. 

TIPS ON HOW TO PROPERLY ASK FOR A LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION: http://www.myresumeonline.org/blog/letters/a-few-tips-on-how-to-properly-ask-for-a-recommendation-letter/

FORM 1

FORM 2

FORM 3

Please contact career@bethanywv.edu for questions.