16 Comments
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Eden Betru Hailemariam's avatar

This is such a thoughtful and practical guide. Focusing on actual contributions rather than passive membership is advice every applicant needs to hear. Adding that AI prompt at the end is brilliant it makes taking action on your tips so straightforward. Sharing this with my network.

Thank you

Mahelet G. Fikru's avatar

I am glad this helps Eden. Thanks for sharing it with your network—- that’s very encouraging for me.

Meselu Birliew's avatar

I thought I was done with my CV, but now I realize there are quite a few things I still need to correct. Thank you, Prof. This is a very thoughtful and valuable guide, and I really appreciate the support.

Mahelet G. Fikru's avatar

Thanks Meselu. Check out the prompt and what it suggests.

Meselu Birliew's avatar

​i checked it out. it gave me very helpful suggestions, including reordering some parts of my CV, adding missing but essential information, standardizing formatting and removing basic software skills, among other things.

Alemayehu Hido Gedo's avatar

I’ve checked it. Thank you so much, Professor, for sharing this valuable resource and for your continued guidance. I truly appreciate your support!

Melkie's avatar

Thank you so much, Professor Mahi. It was helpful. I got a fully funded PhD for Fall 2026. Unfortunately, the Visa... Based on your suggestions, I got some work to refine. Thanks again.

Mahelet G. Fikru's avatar

Keep it up. There’s always the next cycle.

Melkie's avatar

Thank you, Professor. I am applying to more universities now than last year. Your suggestions are exactly how it works for me. Happy to have your guidance.

Mahelet G. Fikru's avatar

Did you use the Grad School Finder? It’s a free webapps that ranks 10 top matches

Melkie's avatar

Yes, I did. Fortunately, the 1st one is the one who offered me RA last year. I was amazed. So, from the top 10 recommendation, I received 5 application waivers. Unfortunately, the remaining university policy is strict for international applicants.

Haiyleyesus Abayneh Belay's avatar

I would start by moving my research and technical projects directly after the education section. As an applicant for MSc programs in Data Science and AI, I want reviewers to see my academic foundation, technical capabilities, and research potential early in my CV.

I also plan to make each project more specific, with clear contributions, methods, and dates.

Thank you, Professor, for sharing such practical guidance.

Mahelet G. Fikru's avatar

Those are great modifications to make. All the best.