Critique my CV for UK Spring Weeks

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some tailored suggestions for your CV and questions:

1. Combining "Experience & Leadership" Sections

• Merging professional experience and extracurriculars into a single section can work, but it depends on execution. Ensure the section is clearly organized, with professional experiences listed first (if they are more relevant to Spring Weeks) and extracurriculars following. Use consistent formatting and bullet points to maintain clarity.
• Highlight transferable skills from your chess club founder role, such as leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving. These are highly valued in Spring Week applications.

2. Optimizing the Additional Info Section

• The additional info section should indeed act as a conversational hook. Include unique, memorable details that showcase your personality or interests. For example:
  • Languages: Mention proficiency levels (e.g., "Fluent in Spanish, Basic Mandarin").
  • Hobbies: Highlight distinctive activities (e.g., "Competitive chess player with a national ranking").
  • Certifications: List relevant ones (e.g., "Bloomberg Market Concepts certified").
  • Fun fact: Add something intriguing but professional (e.g., "Completed a solo backpacking trip across Europe").
• Avoid generic fillers like "Enjoy reading and traveling."

3. Technical Skills to Learn Before Term Starts

• For Spring Weeks, technical skills can set you apart. Focus on:
  • Excel: Learn advanced functions (e.g., VLOOKUP, INDEX-MATCH, Pivot Tables).
  • Financial Modeling: Familiarize yourself with basic valuation techniques (DCF, comps).
  • PowerPoint: Practice creating clean, professional slides.
  • Coding: Basic Python or VBA can be a bonus.
  • Bloomberg Terminal: If accessible, get comfortable navigating it.

Additional Tips:

• Formatting: Ensure your CV is one page, with consistent font and spacing. Use action verbs and quantify achievements where possible.
• Apply Early: As noted in WSO threads, Spring Week applications are often reviewed on a rolling basis. Submitting early increases your chances.

Good luck with your Spring Week prep! If you'd like more specific feedback on your CV, consider using WSO's professional resume review services.

Sources: Spring Week strategy 2021, CV Review - please rip my CV apart, DESTROY MY RESUME/CV - LONDON SPRING WEEKS, Wreck my CV - London Spring Week 2021, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/resume/cv-review-for-sa2021-london?customgpt=1