Phoresis

I have recently "Canadian-ised" my resume and I posted it on another forum (of mainly north-americans) that I frequent, for people to critique.

One thing I noticed is that in my resume I mention under Education about my third year dissertation or honours project. It was an innovative piece of computing science research and development for which I was awarded best project by the university school for that year.

I thought it was significant enough, and demonstrated my skills in such a way that it would be valuable to have on my resume, however everyone who looked at my resume said to take it out and not to put on an award won at 'school'.

So anyway, after that long-winded explanation, my question is do north-americans have another name for a third year university project? Would canadian employers understand what an honours project was?

I can attach my resume later on in this thread if anyone requires it. Thanks.

Greenstriper

Depends on how much genuine work experience you have. If you have only done 1 year of full employment perhaps add you project. If you have 2 or more years then I wouldn't bother - relevant work experience trumps academic awards unless they specifically mention "demonstrable strong academic achiever".

Good luck by the way.

seaham gal

I feel it is a shame to leave out altogether.
Why not put it under another heading:

Achievements:
Best project for Third year dissertation at University School
Subject - Computing Science Research and Development

OR

Additional Skills: Research and Development
Best project for Third year dissertation at University School
Subject - Computing Science

Depends on your content and layout as to where it could go. A bit of blurb at the end is fine if you don't already have these headings.
Good luck!

comet555

I would try to leave it on, but I wouldn't put it directly under Education. It's not really education that you have received, but rather an award that you earned (as others have said).

I would do as seaham gal suggested. Put it under another category like special achievements.

Edo

I thought in UK we write dissertations and in North America you have to do a yea in the industry as part of your degree and then submit an internship report to be assessed by your supervisor. Someone correct me if I'm wrong.