How do I explain a 2 year break to raise my son and continue my education?
by Amber
(Virginia Beach, VA)
Two years ago I had a child; and within that two years I was a stay at home mom. While being a stay at home mom; I started going to school to further my education.
I now have an Associates Degree, and I am looking for work. How do I explain that in my resume? Should I write why I had a gap in work in my cover letter? I am also in school for my Bachelors Degree; should I include that as well?
Thank you.
Answer: Congrats, Amber, both on becoming a mom and also on completing the first stage of your degree. That's a lot to accomplish within a couple of years!
Employment gaps are best explained in the cover letter, as you suggested. Simply a brief statement that you took time off to have a child and then to get your degree is sufficient.
For your incomplete bachelors degree, just list it as pending with an approximate date of graduation under the Education section of your resume. You might also mention in the cover letter what your ultimate educational goals are.
To your success... Kathi