How to Create a Professional Portfolio

In college, it can feel like one’s professional life is far in the distance; however, it is important to begin to curate an overview of your achievements, especially those gained as an undergraduate student, while you’re still in school. At Concordia University, Nebraska, students in all programs have various opportunities to enhance their professional readiness; they can and should build a professional “portfolio” to prepare them for employment, even before they graduate.  

What is a professional portfolio?  

A professional portfolio is similar to, but not the same as, a resume or curriculum vitae (CV), although it can help you to collect the information you’ll need to tailor these to different job or graduate school applications. In essence, a professional portfolio should contain more information than either of these documents. Most often, it can be made online, whether through a job website like LinkedIn or even a personal website.  

A professional portfolio should be a representation of your best work in both the academic and professional realms. Although it can be tempting to include every single one of your past accomplishments in your portfolio, choosing a few of your best pieces of work is typically more effective in appealing to employers.  

What should you include in your portfolio? 

Suggestions for information to be included in a professional portfolio vary depending on the source, but many include basic documents like a resume, cover letter and even a personal philosophy essay. Albany Technical College also includes contact information for professional references, transcripts and certificates earned in its comprehensive list of suggestions for items to include in a professional portfolio. In summary, a portfolio may vary based on your professional and academic goals but is a flexible collection of work that represents you and your accomplishments.  

When should you update your portfolio?  

Just like a resume, your portfolio should get an update whenever something significant happens that would change the information contained within it. For example, when you graduate from college, you can add a copy of your diploma. You can add professional references as you work in new places and gain new professional relationships. The possibilities are great; any time you complete a degree, project or get a new certification, update your portfolio!  

What’s the purpose of a portfolio?  

A portfolio is a comprehensive collection of professional and academic materials that represent your accomplishments and skills, so its usefulness in your professional life is virtually unlimited. You may present it to potential employers, graduate admissions counselors or career advisors. It can even serve as a personal record of your own work throughout your career. No matter how you’re using it, creating a professional portfolio will serve you well in your undergraduate career and beyond.  

Concordia University, Nebraska promises students a Lutheran, Christian higher education that equips them not only with skills and a degree, but also a sense of vocation and purpose for the future. It emphasizes the importance of the Gospel and is a Christ-centered community of believers and academics. Learn more about applying to Concordia here.