12 answers
Ilknur
Student
Aliso Viejo, California
2
Questions
Asked
811 views
How important is GPA in finding consulting jobs?
My GPA is not very high, and it makes me anxious since I am going to be in a competitive field. What can I do if I do not have a high GPA and perfect extracurriculars?
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12 answers
Moataz Elfar
general manger
17
Answers
Mansoura, Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt
Updated
Moataz’s Answer
A high GPA can certainly be a golden ticket in some fields, like consulting, but it's not the only key to landing a job. Consulting firms typically weigh a variety of factors when sizing up candidates, meaning a less-than-stellar GPA doesn't automatically sideline you. If your GPA isn't sky-high, consider these strategies:
Play Up Your Strengths:
Spotlight Relevant Skills: Concentrate on the skills, experiences, and achievements that tie directly to consulting. Flaunt your knack for problem-solving, critical thinking skills, and any relevant coursework or projects.
Get Your Hands Dirty:
Internships and Projects: Grab internships or jump into projects that give you real-world experience in consulting-related areas. Often, hands-on experience can outweigh a GPA.
Network:
Tap Into Your Network: Use your existing network to secure informational interviews or meetings with consulting pros. Networking can unlock opportunities and provide insights that can balance out a lower GPA.
Professional Growth:
Certifications: Think about earning certifications that are pertinent to consulting. This could include certifications in project management, data analysis, or industry-specific skills.
Craft a Knockout Resume:
Showcase Achievements: Spotlight your achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and any honors or awards you've bagged. A well-polished resume can make a lasting impression.
Ace the Case Interviews:
Case Interview Skills: Consulting firms often use case interviews to gauge problem-solving skills. Spend time practicing case interviews to show off your analytical prowess during the recruitment process.
Spin Your GPA Positively:
Cover Letter or Interviews: If your GPA comes up, spin it positively. Highlight your growth, learning experiences, and how you've evolved as a candidate.
Zero in on Fit and Passion:
Company Fit: Show off your understanding of the consulting firm's culture, values, and industry focus. Display your enthusiasm for consulting and your dedication to contributing to the firm's success.
Further Your Education:
Graduate Degrees: If possible, think about earning a relevant graduate degree. Postgraduate education can sometimes balance out a lower undergraduate GPA.
Persistence and Resilience:
Bounce Back from Setbacks: Use any hurdles you've encountered, including a lower GPA, as stepping stones for personal and professional growth. Show resilience and a dedication to bettering yourself.
Remember, consulting firms look at candidates as a whole, considering a mix of academic achievements, practical experience, interpersonal skills, and cultural fit within the organization. Many successful consultants have taken winding roads to success, and a lower GPA doesn't limit your potential.
While a robust GPA can boost your candidacy, it's not the be-all and end-all. Focus on playing to your strengths, gaining relevant experience, and letting your passion for consulting shine during the application process.
Play Up Your Strengths:
Spotlight Relevant Skills: Concentrate on the skills, experiences, and achievements that tie directly to consulting. Flaunt your knack for problem-solving, critical thinking skills, and any relevant coursework or projects.
Get Your Hands Dirty:
Internships and Projects: Grab internships or jump into projects that give you real-world experience in consulting-related areas. Often, hands-on experience can outweigh a GPA.
Network:
Tap Into Your Network: Use your existing network to secure informational interviews or meetings with consulting pros. Networking can unlock opportunities and provide insights that can balance out a lower GPA.
Professional Growth:
Certifications: Think about earning certifications that are pertinent to consulting. This could include certifications in project management, data analysis, or industry-specific skills.
Craft a Knockout Resume:
Showcase Achievements: Spotlight your achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and any honors or awards you've bagged. A well-polished resume can make a lasting impression.
Ace the Case Interviews:
Case Interview Skills: Consulting firms often use case interviews to gauge problem-solving skills. Spend time practicing case interviews to show off your analytical prowess during the recruitment process.
Spin Your GPA Positively:
Cover Letter or Interviews: If your GPA comes up, spin it positively. Highlight your growth, learning experiences, and how you've evolved as a candidate.
Zero in on Fit and Passion:
Company Fit: Show off your understanding of the consulting firm's culture, values, and industry focus. Display your enthusiasm for consulting and your dedication to contributing to the firm's success.
Further Your Education:
Graduate Degrees: If possible, think about earning a relevant graduate degree. Postgraduate education can sometimes balance out a lower undergraduate GPA.
Persistence and Resilience:
Bounce Back from Setbacks: Use any hurdles you've encountered, including a lower GPA, as stepping stones for personal and professional growth. Show resilience and a dedication to bettering yourself.
Remember, consulting firms look at candidates as a whole, considering a mix of academic achievements, practical experience, interpersonal skills, and cultural fit within the organization. Many successful consultants have taken winding roads to success, and a lower GPA doesn't limit your potential.
While a robust GPA can boost your candidacy, it's not the be-all and end-all. Focus on playing to your strengths, gaining relevant experience, and letting your passion for consulting shine during the application process.
Eoin Mcdaid
Financial Analyst
2
Answers
Round Rock, Texas
Updated
Eoin’s Answer
The importance of GPA in finding consulting jobs varies depending on the company and the position. For example, at McKinsey, BCG, or Bain, a candidate must have at least a 3.6 GPA to be considered for a job 1. However, lower GPAs don’t necessarily mean that a person is disqualified; a resume with a 3- or 2-GPA can still make it to the next round if it shows outstanding achievements in other areas 1. Other factors that can influence the GPA requirement include your specialty, the school you attended, your ethnicity, your work experience, etc1.
It’s important to note that while a high GPA can be an advantage, it’s not the only factor that consulting firms consider when hiring. Other factors such as your work experience, leadership skills, and problem-solving abilities are also important 2. Therefore, it’s important to focus on developing a well-rounded skill set and gaining relevant experience in your field of interest.
I hope this helps!
It’s important to note that while a high GPA can be an advantage, it’s not the only factor that consulting firms consider when hiring. Other factors such as your work experience, leadership skills, and problem-solving abilities are also important 2. Therefore, it’s important to focus on developing a well-rounded skill set and gaining relevant experience in your field of interest.
I hope this helps!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4344
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Ilknur,
Let's chat about the role of GPA in securing consulting jobs. Your Grade Point Average, or GPA, is a key player in your academic journey and can influence your job prospects in consulting. It's not the only thing hiring managers look at, but it definitely holds some weight.
Consulting firms are always on the hunt for candidates who have a knack for problem-solving and a solid academic background. A high GPA can be a testament to your ability to thrive in a challenging work setting. But remember, a high GPA alone doesn't guarantee a smooth sail in your consulting career.
Consulting firms also value other aspects like relevant work experience, participation in extracurricular activities, leadership qualities, and personal traits. These elements can help balance out a lower GPA and illustrate your potential to shine in the consulting world.
If your GPA isn't as high as you'd like, don't fret. Here are some strategies to boost your chances of landing a consulting job:
1. Get involved in extracurricular activities: Show your leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills through participation in clubs, organizations, or volunteer work. This can exhibit your dedication to personal and professional development.
2. Gain relevant work experience: Practical experience in consulting can make you stand out. Internships, part-time jobs, or freelance projects involving problem-solving, data analysis, and communication can help you achieve this.
3. Network: Forge connections with professionals in the consulting industry. This can provide you with valuable insights and increase your chances of getting job referrals. Attend networking events, conferences, and workshops to meet potential employers and stay updated on industry trends.
4. Showcase your transferable skills: Highlight skills like critical thinking, analytical abilities, and project management in your resume and interviews. These skills can prove your potential to excel in consulting, regardless of your GPA.
5. Ace your interviews: Brush up on your interview skills and be ready to discuss your academic performance and any obstacles you've encountered. Highlight how these experiences have made you stronger and more determined.
Here are some books that can help you understand the consulting industry better:
- "The Consulting Bible: Secrets That Only the Top 5% Know" by Michael J. Kaufmann
- "Consulting 101: How to Land a Job in Management Consulting" by James D. Raine
- "Master the Cube: Conquering the Case Interview" by Marc P. Cosentino
And don't forget to check out my BIO in the "About James Constantine Frangos" section for tips on nutrient-rich foods that can boost your academic performance.
Take care,
James.
Let's chat about the role of GPA in securing consulting jobs. Your Grade Point Average, or GPA, is a key player in your academic journey and can influence your job prospects in consulting. It's not the only thing hiring managers look at, but it definitely holds some weight.
Consulting firms are always on the hunt for candidates who have a knack for problem-solving and a solid academic background. A high GPA can be a testament to your ability to thrive in a challenging work setting. But remember, a high GPA alone doesn't guarantee a smooth sail in your consulting career.
Consulting firms also value other aspects like relevant work experience, participation in extracurricular activities, leadership qualities, and personal traits. These elements can help balance out a lower GPA and illustrate your potential to shine in the consulting world.
If your GPA isn't as high as you'd like, don't fret. Here are some strategies to boost your chances of landing a consulting job:
1. Get involved in extracurricular activities: Show your leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills through participation in clubs, organizations, or volunteer work. This can exhibit your dedication to personal and professional development.
2. Gain relevant work experience: Practical experience in consulting can make you stand out. Internships, part-time jobs, or freelance projects involving problem-solving, data analysis, and communication can help you achieve this.
3. Network: Forge connections with professionals in the consulting industry. This can provide you with valuable insights and increase your chances of getting job referrals. Attend networking events, conferences, and workshops to meet potential employers and stay updated on industry trends.
4. Showcase your transferable skills: Highlight skills like critical thinking, analytical abilities, and project management in your resume and interviews. These skills can prove your potential to excel in consulting, regardless of your GPA.
5. Ace your interviews: Brush up on your interview skills and be ready to discuss your academic performance and any obstacles you've encountered. Highlight how these experiences have made you stronger and more determined.
Here are some books that can help you understand the consulting industry better:
- "The Consulting Bible: Secrets That Only the Top 5% Know" by Michael J. Kaufmann
- "Consulting 101: How to Land a Job in Management Consulting" by James D. Raine
- "Master the Cube: Conquering the Case Interview" by Marc P. Cosentino
And don't forget to check out my BIO in the "About James Constantine Frangos" section for tips on nutrient-rich foods that can boost your academic performance.
Take care,
James.
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1248
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Ilkunur !
I'd like to give you some advice, but you didn't mention what field of work you intend to be a consultant in. It may matter. Things are changing and I know that up until my last experience in being hired by a company in 2018, and 2019 and in 2020 no one asked for my GPA. Thereafter, I am like a consultant and no one ever asks for my GPA. So which field is it that consultants are being asked their GPA ? Also, have you already graduated or are you referring to your current GPA and have not graduated yet ? Is it high school or college ?
If your GPA is low but you're still in school and have time left, really apply yourself to your studies in all of your classes. It's better to do something about it now and not worry about it.
Now is the time to be very focused on your school work and strive for A's. You will have to want to do this, though. If you've gotten by with what you believe is a bad GPA but have not failed out thus far, it should be important for you to take the direct action and even go for tutoring if that would help. If you've done volunteer work, that is in your favor, too. I don't know how much time you have before you plan to look for consultant work in the field you've chosen, but there is always time to prepare yourself so you can compete with other applicants.
Could you be underestimating yourself ? You weren't specific about what your GPA really is or if you have one, a few or no extracurriculars. Employment, volunteer work and internships and even clubs or groups outside of school will be in your favor. Don't think about the competition. Focus on building stellar interviewing skills, great written and verbal communication skills and going on a few interviews or practicing interviewing at home with friends or family. Your interview is going to mean a lot. You can always not offer your GPA unless specifically asked when applying or during an interview.
Most of all, try not to worry about this now. Know that it is a concern and start to make small goals on how you want to improve your grades. You will be applying for a lot of jobs and each employer will have different requirements and be looking for something different. You just may have the quality someone is looking for. Be sure to network as much as you can, meet people in your field of work and develop contacts because doing so can mean a door open for great opportunities.
I hope that this is of some help and I wish you all the best for a bright and happy future !
I'd like to give you some advice, but you didn't mention what field of work you intend to be a consultant in. It may matter. Things are changing and I know that up until my last experience in being hired by a company in 2018, and 2019 and in 2020 no one asked for my GPA. Thereafter, I am like a consultant and no one ever asks for my GPA. So which field is it that consultants are being asked their GPA ? Also, have you already graduated or are you referring to your current GPA and have not graduated yet ? Is it high school or college ?
If your GPA is low but you're still in school and have time left, really apply yourself to your studies in all of your classes. It's better to do something about it now and not worry about it.
Now is the time to be very focused on your school work and strive for A's. You will have to want to do this, though. If you've gotten by with what you believe is a bad GPA but have not failed out thus far, it should be important for you to take the direct action and even go for tutoring if that would help. If you've done volunteer work, that is in your favor, too. I don't know how much time you have before you plan to look for consultant work in the field you've chosen, but there is always time to prepare yourself so you can compete with other applicants.
Could you be underestimating yourself ? You weren't specific about what your GPA really is or if you have one, a few or no extracurriculars. Employment, volunteer work and internships and even clubs or groups outside of school will be in your favor. Don't think about the competition. Focus on building stellar interviewing skills, great written and verbal communication skills and going on a few interviews or practicing interviewing at home with friends or family. Your interview is going to mean a lot. You can always not offer your GPA unless specifically asked when applying or during an interview.
Most of all, try not to worry about this now. Know that it is a concern and start to make small goals on how you want to improve your grades. You will be applying for a lot of jobs and each employer will have different requirements and be looking for something different. You just may have the quality someone is looking for. Be sure to network as much as you can, meet people in your field of work and develop contacts because doing so can mean a door open for great opportunities.
I hope that this is of some help and I wish you all the best for a bright and happy future !
S M
Managerial
1
Answer
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
S’s Answer
Hi, Ilknur. How close are you to being finished? Is this your last semester? GPA isn't the primary item that companies look for, but if you can raise it a bit, it'll help you both with your self-esteem and your knowledge, so it's incredibly worth it if you can pull it up, but just remember to take this one day at a time when you have anxiety.
ash lakshmanan
17
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
ash’s Answer
Your Grade Point Average (GPA) is a significant factor for consulting employers when hiring recent college graduates, but it's not the only thing that matters. It's crucial to leverage your unique strengths.
1. Networking - This is the key to success. Develop genuine professional relationships through active networking within your community.
2. Volunteering - Get involved in areas that align with your career goals. Start building a portfolio by tackling real-world problems for clients using your skills.
3. Online Presence - Create a blog or other online content where you discuss your interests and insights in the consulting field. This demonstrates your passion and expertise.
1. Networking - This is the key to success. Develop genuine professional relationships through active networking within your community.
2. Volunteering - Get involved in areas that align with your career goals. Start building a portfolio by tackling real-world problems for clients using your skills.
3. Online Presence - Create a blog or other online content where you discuss your interests and insights in the consulting field. This demonstrates your passion and expertise.
Adam Zhang
business strategy
5
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Adam’s Answer
Hello, Ilkunur!
Your GPA certainly carries weight, particularly when you're aiming for an entry-level position at top-tier consulting firms as a college student. However, it's not the only deciding factor in securing a position at these firms. Consulting firms place emphasis on undergraduate GPAs as they serve as a reliable gauge of your potential performance and capabilities as a consulting professional.
That said, there are other aspects that can contribute to your success in a consulting career. For instance, entry-level consulting roles often seek individuals who can quickly grasp new concepts, connect with others, exhibit strong empathy, adapt to varying work environments and changes, and demonstrate networking and people management skills.
I would urge you to delve deeper into understanding yourself - your likes, dislikes, skills, and preferences - and see how they align with the traits typically needed in a consulting professional. If you find a correlation, don't hesitate to give it a shot while keeping your GPA at a respectable level. This experience could be highly beneficial, even if you decide not to continue in the consulting field after graduation.
Best of luck!
Your GPA certainly carries weight, particularly when you're aiming for an entry-level position at top-tier consulting firms as a college student. However, it's not the only deciding factor in securing a position at these firms. Consulting firms place emphasis on undergraduate GPAs as they serve as a reliable gauge of your potential performance and capabilities as a consulting professional.
That said, there are other aspects that can contribute to your success in a consulting career. For instance, entry-level consulting roles often seek individuals who can quickly grasp new concepts, connect with others, exhibit strong empathy, adapt to varying work environments and changes, and demonstrate networking and people management skills.
I would urge you to delve deeper into understanding yourself - your likes, dislikes, skills, and preferences - and see how they align with the traits typically needed in a consulting professional. If you find a correlation, don't hesitate to give it a shot while keeping your GPA at a respectable level. This experience could be highly beneficial, even if you decide not to continue in the consulting field after graduation.
Best of luck!
Thomas Landzert
Consulting
2
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Thomas’s Answer
Hello IIknur,
You've asked an excellent question! It's impressive to see you're already thinking ahead about potential challenges, a trait that will be incredibly beneficial if you're considering a career in consulting. It's true that in this field, your GPA can play a role, but it's not the be-all and end-all. A high GPA might open some doors, but recruiters in the consulting industry are looking for more than just that. Here's how you can stand out:
1. Play up your other strengths: Put a spotlight on your skills, experiences, and personal traits that prove your ability to solve problems, work in a team, lead, and analyze. Highlight projects, internships, or part-time jobs that have allowed you to put these skills into practice.
2. Build your network: Establish a robust professional network. Attend industry events, connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, and don't be shy about asking for informational interviews. Networking can often unlock opportunities that a high GPA alone might not.
3. Highlight your real-world experience: Don't forget to emphasize any hands-on experience, practical knowledge, or certifications you have that are relevant to consulting. Show how these experiences have prepared you with the skills needed in the consulting field.
4. Perfect your resume and cover letter: Make sure your application materials are tailored to highlight your strengths and how they align with consulting. Tell engaging stories that illustrate your achievements, problem-solving skills, and adaptability.
5. Show your passion and enthusiasm: During interviews, make sure to express a genuine interest in the field. Let your passion for consulting, eagerness to learn, and commitment to making a positive impact in the industry shine through.
Remember, while your GPA is one piece of the puzzle, recruiters are looking for a well-rounded view of a consulting candidate. Your drive, passion, relevant experience, and ability to showcase your skills can more than make up for a lower GPA. Concentrate on what you can control and present yourself as a motivated and well-rounded candidate. Best of luck on your journey into consulting.
You've asked an excellent question! It's impressive to see you're already thinking ahead about potential challenges, a trait that will be incredibly beneficial if you're considering a career in consulting. It's true that in this field, your GPA can play a role, but it's not the be-all and end-all. A high GPA might open some doors, but recruiters in the consulting industry are looking for more than just that. Here's how you can stand out:
1. Play up your other strengths: Put a spotlight on your skills, experiences, and personal traits that prove your ability to solve problems, work in a team, lead, and analyze. Highlight projects, internships, or part-time jobs that have allowed you to put these skills into practice.
2. Build your network: Establish a robust professional network. Attend industry events, connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, and don't be shy about asking for informational interviews. Networking can often unlock opportunities that a high GPA alone might not.
3. Highlight your real-world experience: Don't forget to emphasize any hands-on experience, practical knowledge, or certifications you have that are relevant to consulting. Show how these experiences have prepared you with the skills needed in the consulting field.
4. Perfect your resume and cover letter: Make sure your application materials are tailored to highlight your strengths and how they align with consulting. Tell engaging stories that illustrate your achievements, problem-solving skills, and adaptability.
5. Show your passion and enthusiasm: During interviews, make sure to express a genuine interest in the field. Let your passion for consulting, eagerness to learn, and commitment to making a positive impact in the industry shine through.
Remember, while your GPA is one piece of the puzzle, recruiters are looking for a well-rounded view of a consulting candidate. Your drive, passion, relevant experience, and ability to showcase your skills can more than make up for a lower GPA. Concentrate on what you can control and present yourself as a motivated and well-rounded candidate. Best of luck on your journey into consulting.
Aisha Taylor
Mortgage Closing Specialist
403
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Aisha’s Answer
Hi Ilkunur!
It's common for consulting firms to request your GPA on your resume. Not following their guidelines and leaving out your GPA can be a gamble and should only be considered as a final option. A lot of recruiters may think that if an applicant doesn't mention their GPA, it's probably because their GPA isn't impressive.
It's common for consulting firms to request your GPA on your resume. Not following their guidelines and leaving out your GPA can be a gamble and should only be considered as a final option. A lot of recruiters may think that if an applicant doesn't mention their GPA, it's probably because their GPA isn't impressive.
Emily Briggs, GCDF
Career Coach
3
Answers
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Updated
Emily’s Answer
Good question! GPA's can be important right when initially you graduate, but it is not the only thing employers are looking for. I'd only recommend listing your GPA on your resume if you have a 3.0 and above, and if not, simply leave it off of your resume.
Experiences like projects, internships, and extra-curricular activities can be more appealing and used on your resume to amplify it. And once you've had 1 or 2 jobs outside of college, your GPA is rarely considered for most new roles - it is primarily about experience after that.
Experiences like projects, internships, and extra-curricular activities can be more appealing and used on your resume to amplify it. And once you've had 1 or 2 jobs outside of college, your GPA is rarely considered for most new roles - it is primarily about experience after that.
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
600
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Hello Ilknur, I completely understand your concerns regarding the impact of GPA on securing consulting jobs, a frequent concern among budding professionals. Although a high GPA is indeed an asset, it doesn't single-handedly dictate success in the consulting field. Companies assess candidates in a comprehensive manner, taking into account practical skills, problem-solving capabilities, communication prowess, and pertinent experiences.
A lower GPA doesn't spell doom; it's essential to accentuate your strengths and make your application stand out. Tactics to consider include spotlighting relevant experience, forging connections, and conducting informational interviews. Work on honing soft skills such as communication and teamwork, which are vital in consulting.
Construct a robust portfolio that displays your projects and skills, and tailor applications to shift the spotlight away from GPA. Success in consulting is multifaceted, placing emphasis on problem-solving, teamwork, and significant contributions. Remain self-assured, concentrate on your strong suits, and here's wishing you all the best in your job hunt.
A lower GPA doesn't spell doom; it's essential to accentuate your strengths and make your application stand out. Tactics to consider include spotlighting relevant experience, forging connections, and conducting informational interviews. Work on honing soft skills such as communication and teamwork, which are vital in consulting.
Construct a robust portfolio that displays your projects and skills, and tailor applications to shift the spotlight away from GPA. Success in consulting is multifaceted, placing emphasis on problem-solving, teamwork, and significant contributions. Remain self-assured, concentrate on your strong suits, and here's wishing you all the best in your job hunt.
Sharon Vien
Data and Tech Associate
40
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Sharon’s Answer
Hello Ilknur!
Your GPA, while important, isn't the sole determining factor in the recruitment process. Companies also evaluate your experiences, coursework, and abilities such as technical proficiency, communication, leadership, and problem-solving. If your GPA isn't particularly high or you're not engaged in many extracurricular activities, your first step should be to network with other students interested in consulting. This networking will help you broaden your circle, exchange industry-specific information, find partners for case interview practice, and offer mutual support.
After expanding your network, it would be beneficial to join consulting-focused clubs on campus and gain case interview experience. This will not only enhance your resume with additional extracurricular activities but also provide you with practical experience.
Above all, it's vital to emphasize your problem-solving, analytical, communication, and leadership skills in your resume or during interviews. You can definitely do this!
Your GPA, while important, isn't the sole determining factor in the recruitment process. Companies also evaluate your experiences, coursework, and abilities such as technical proficiency, communication, leadership, and problem-solving. If your GPA isn't particularly high or you're not engaged in many extracurricular activities, your first step should be to network with other students interested in consulting. This networking will help you broaden your circle, exchange industry-specific information, find partners for case interview practice, and offer mutual support.
After expanding your network, it would be beneficial to join consulting-focused clubs on campus and gain case interview experience. This will not only enhance your resume with additional extracurricular activities but also provide you with practical experience.
Above all, it's vital to emphasize your problem-solving, analytical, communication, and leadership skills in your resume or during interviews. You can definitely do this!