How to Effectively List In-Progress Degrees on Your Resume
Intro
In today’s job market, the landscape has shifted dramatically, with higher education becoming less of a requirement and more of an expectation. Many job seekers, especially recent graduates or those still in school, are finding themselves in a bind. How do you apply for positions when you haven’t yet finalized your education? Listing an in-progress degree on your resume can be a strategic move, but not without its own set of challenges. By clearly and concisely showcasing your educational pursuits, you can strengthen your candidacy even before graduating.
So grab a seat, and let’s get into how you can enhance your resume with your ongoing education.
Understanding the Importance of Listing a Degree in Progress
When it comes to the job market, educational qualifications are often key differentiators among candidates. Listing a degree that’s still in the works is not just a straightforward act; it carries significant weight. The narrative around this decision can shape a potential employer's perception of your commitment and capabilities.
One main facet to consider is that education remains a highly regarded asset in many industries. In some sectors, a degree might not just be a desirable trait but a non-negotiable requirement. Therefore, showcasing a degree in progress can still align you with competitors who have already completed their academic journeys. It signals a proactive stance on enhancing one's skillset, showing hiring managers that you are not simply resting on your laurels.
Furthermore, another invaluable benefit of including a degree in progress is the enhancement of your professional narrative. This declaration is indicative of an individual who prioritizes growth and is keen to further their career. This type of engagement suggests that you are someone who takes initiative, reinforces your expertise in the field, and is eager to contribute to the team's success.
"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." — Nelson Mandela.
In essence, including a degree that you are currently pursuing creates room for inquiry and discussion during the interview process. It allows you to pivot the conversation towards your ambitions and the steps you are taking to achieve them. This can serve as a solid conversation starter that highlights your enthusiasm and dedication to your field.
Value of Education in the Job Market
In today's labor market, having a degree can set you apart in a way that a high school diploma simply cannot. Many employers are placing a palpable emphasis on educational qualifications, recognizing that they often correlate with a candidate's potential for problem-solving and strategic thinking.
Many professions not only value the degree itself but also the thought that goes into pursuing higher education. Candidates who list a degree in progress signal that they are actively developing critical thinking skills, time management, and discipline. These attributes are often as important to employers as the degree itself.
Here are several reasons why education carries weight:
- Employers’ Expectations: Many job postings specifically ask for certain degrees. If you are in progress with an sought-after qualification, it makes your application more appealing.
- Long-term Commitment: Pursuing an education demonstrates that you are serious about your career path and terminologies related to your field. It indicates that you understand the need for continuous education and adaptability in your professional journey.
- Networking Opportunities: Being part of academic programs opens doors to connections with professionals in your field, which can lead to job opportunities down the line.
Signaling Dedication to Professional Development
Listing a degree in progress is a clear signal of your commitment to professional development. In a fast-paced job market, continual learning is not just a benefit but often a necessity.
Employers are increasingly on the lookout for talent that demonstrates a willingness to learn and grow. By including a degree in progress on your resume, you highlight key personal attributes:
- Proactivity: You're taking the initiative to gain further knowledge, rather than waiting for opportunities to arise.
- Goal Orientation: You likely have set goals for your education and career, offering insight into your ambition and drive.
- Self-Management: Balancing studies with job responsibilities or internships speaks volumes about your organizational skills and reliability.
The implications of signaling this dedication cannot be understated. It nudges employers to view you as someone who is ready to grow with the company, as opposed to someone who has reached a plateau. In the end, demonstrating this commitment not only helps you land a job but also prepares you for a fulfilling career trajectory.
When to Include a Degree in Progress on Your Resume
Listing a degree that you’re still working on can feel like walking a tightrope. On one hand, you want to showcase your commitment to furthering your education. On the other, you need to ensure that your resume doesn’t seem like a half-baked idea. Knowing when to include an in-progress degree is crucial. It’s about leveraging your educational pursuits while maintaining the credibility of your overall presentation.
Being strategic about this can make a world of difference as you navigate the job market. Timing and understanding your own background play pivotal roles here.
Assessing Your Experience and Educational Background
Before you decide to slap that "Degree in Progress" badge on your resume, take a long, hard look at your entire journey. Have you amassed real-world experience that might overshadow the absence of a completed degree? If you’ve done internships, taken on job roles that align with what you’re studying, or even dabbled in freelance gigs, these experiences can enhance the value of showcasing an in-progress degree.
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Relevant Work Experience: Do you have hands-on experience that is in line with your degree?
- Skill Application: Have you managed to use skills related to your studies in real-life scenarios?
- Course Completion: Have you completed particularly noteworthy coursework that aligns well with the job you’re applying for?
Looking at these factors can help you determine if featuring your in-progress degree adds value or if it might be wiser to focus on your immediate competencies instead.
Strategic Timing for Job Applications
Timing, as they say, is everything. If your degree is nearing completion and you've already started to gather networking contacts or job leads, now may be the perfect moment to flaunt that line in progress. This shows employers that you’ve invested time and effort into your education, which can certainly earn you some brownie points.
However, if you are early in your degree journey, delaying mention of it may be advisable. For instance, if you’re applying for roles that require specific qualifications that you don't yet hold, it's best not to draw attention to the degree until you’re closer to finishing.
Here are some pointers on strategic timing:
- Before Applying: If you’re about to send out applications, consider the relevance and timing of your degree completion—if it’s imminent, it can be a strong selling point.
- Networking Events: If you meet potential employers, mentioning your in-progress degree might demonstrate ambition, especially if your field values education highly.
- Tailor Your Application: Adjust your resume based on the job you are eyeing. If they value academic progress in candidates, highlighting your in-progress degree could set you apart.
Ultimately, understanding when to include your degree in progress can act like a compass, guiding your resume decisions toward better chances of landing interviews.
"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - W.B. Yeats
Understanding these nuances can refine your resume strategy and increase your chances of making a lasting impression.
The Correct Format for Listing Degrees in Progress
When it comes to listing a degree in progress on your resume, the format you choose is not merely a matter of aesthetics. It serves as a powerful communication tool that can articulate your educational journey effectively to potential employers. Proper formatting helps distinguish your educational qualifications and enhances the clarity of your credentials. In a competitive job landscape, the way you present your in-progress degree could make the difference between getting noticed or lost in the shuffle.
Structuring Your Education Section
The education section of your resume is like the canvas on which you paint your academic picture. Here’s how to structure it:
- Heading Your Education Section: Start with a clear heading, simply labeled as "Education." This establishes immediately what this section is about.
- List Your Institution: Write the name of the school followed by its location (city and state). This provides credibility and context.
- Degree Type and Major: Specify the degree you are pursuing. For example, instead of saying "Bachelor’s Degree", say "Bachelor of Arts in Psychology." This specificity offers more insight into your academic focus.
- Expected Graduation Date: It's essential to include the anticipated completion date. This can signal your proximity to graduation and reassure employers of your forthcoming qualifications. Use phrases like "Expected Graduation: May 2024".
- Relevant Coursework (Optional): If space allows, you may also want to list pertinent courses that align with the job you’re applying for. This provides additional context on your skills and knowledge.
By adhering to this structure, you’ll be presenting a clean, coherent information layout that invites employers to delve deeper into your qualifications.
Examples of Effective Formatting
Here's how you might format your education section:
Example
Education
ABC University, New City, NY
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Expected Graduation: December 2024
Relevant Coursework: Data Structures, Algorithms, Software Engineering.
Example
Education
XYZ College, Old Town, CA
Associate Degree in Graphic Design
Currently Enrolled; Expected Graduation: May 2025
Relevant Coursework: Digital Media, Visual Communication, Typography.
In these examples, the key information is easy to spot and digest quickly. Each component matters, potentially making strides in catching the eye of a hiring manager. Always be precise and clear, as imprecise information can create doubts about your professionalism and reliability. As common adage goes, 'the devil is in the details,' so ensure your education section shines bright with accuracy.
A well-organized education section not only enhances readability but also clearly communicates your commitment to growth.
Listing your in-progress degree correctly reflects your ongoing education and positions you as an individual who values professional development, ready to step into new roles with fresh, relevant skills.
Effective Phrasing for In-Progress Degrees
When it comes to showcasing an in-progress degree on your resume, the words you choose can make a significant difference. The way you articulate your educational journey reflects not just your current status, but also your dedication to personal and professional growth. This section will explore how to effectively phrase your in-progress degree, ensuring clarity and encouraging potential employers to view your qualifications favorably.
Appropriate Terminology to Use
Using the right terminology when listing your in-progress degree is essential. It's all about striking a balance between honesty and presenting yourself in the best light. Here are some recommended terms and phrases:
- Expected Graduation: This phrase indicates that you are currently enrolled and provides a timeline for when you plan to complete your degree. For instance, you might say, "Expected graduation: May 2024."
- In Progress: A straightforward way to indicate that you are still working toward your degree. Simply listing "Bachelor of Arts in History (In Progress)" under the education section of your resume suffices well enough.
- Coursework Completed: If you've finished several courses, stating "Coursework completed toward a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science" helps paint a clearer picture of your progress.
Using these terms not only demonstrates transparency but also displays your proactive approach to education. Always ensure that the language you use conveys both where you are at in your educational journey and your path forward.
Showcasing Relevant Coursework
Mentioning relevant coursework is another effective strategy when detailing an in-progress degree. This can help hiring managers understand how your academic background aligns with the skills required for a job. For example, if you are pursuing a degree in Marketing and have completed coursework in Digital Marketing and Consumer Behavior, you can phrase it like this:
"Relevant Coursework: Digital Marketing, Consumer Behavior, and Market Research."
By detailing the courses you’ve completed, you highlight your knowledge and skills that can be beneficial in the role you’re applying for.
"Courses that align with specific job responsibilities can improve your chances of landing that interview."
Consider how these elements can be formatted on your resume:
- Education Section Sample:Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (In Progress)
State University, Expected Graduation: December 2023
Relevant Coursework: Financial Accounting, Strategic Management, and Business Ethics
In this example, the combination of appropriate terminology and relevant coursework makes it clear to employers that you’re actively engaged in your education and acquiring skills that are applicable to prospective job roles.
In summary, effective phrasing of your in-progress degree involves careful selection of words and clear presentations of your accomplishments in relevant courses. Take the time to refine this section of your resume; it can make all the difference in how you are perceived by potential employers.
Addressing Common Concerns from Employers
When you decide to highlight an in-progress degree on your resume, it's crucial to understand that employers often have concerns about candidates' commitment and timelines. This section tackles these tensions, providing ways to address them directly and effectively.
Potential Questions Regarding Commitment
One of the foremost questions employers might have revolves around your commitment to finishing your degree. They might wonder: Will you be able to balance work and studies? Can I rely on you to complete your education? These considerations often stem from the traditional perception that a degree is a "done deal" before one steps into the workforce.
Employers may question your dedication, particularly if your degree is in a field that complements the job you’re applying for. The last thing they want is to invest in someone who might bail out on their education.
To alleviate these concerns, you can preemptively address your commitment in your resume. Here are a few points you can consider:
- Clearly state the expected graduation date if known.
- Mention your current GPA, if it's strong enough, to indicate your focus.
- Highlight relevant courses completed that align with the job description.
By being transparent about your educational journey, you not only assure employers of your dedication but also signal that you’re serious about your professional development.
How to Mitigate Concerns About Timelines
Another lingering worry for potential employers is how your educational timeline might affect your job responsibilities. For instance, they might think: If you’re still studying, how will you fulfill your work duties? The trick is showing that you can juggle both tasks efficiently.
To sweeten the pot and make your resume more appealing, consider these strategies:
- Outline a flexible schedule: Articulate how you manage your time. Mentioning evenings or weekends when you can work shows that you’ve anticipated their concerns and have a plan in place.
- Discuss any relevant experiences: If you have internships or part-time jobs related to your field, mentioning these experiences can reinforce the idea that you are already integrating your education with professional responsibilities.
- Use action words: In your resume, while discussing past experiences, use verbs such as "managed," "prioritized," and "balanced" to showcase your ability to handle multiple commitments.
In addition, consider having a cover letter where you expand on your educational journey and how you plan to achieve your degree without sacrificing work performance. The emphasis should always be on your skills, potential, and readiness to step into the role, alongside your educational endeavors.
"Employers appreciate transparency; addressing concerns about commitment and timelines can make all the difference in landing your desired position."
In a world where employers are inundated with resumes, it’s about standing out. Addressing these common concerns directly can not only eliminate doubts but also elevate your candidacy to a level of professionalism and dedication that many applicants miss. The key is to strike a balance between your education and career aspirations, showcasing the synergy between both.
Using Additional Information to Strengthen Your Resume
Including supplementary information on your resume can significantly enhance your appeal to potential employers. When you are in the process of acquiring a degree, it’s crucial to leverage every piece of relevant experience and skill to your advantage. This section looks at how the right details can complement your educational endeavor, making your resume not just a list of qualifications, but a dynamic portrait of your professional potential.
Including Relevant Skills and Certifications
Highlighting skills and certifications pertinent to your field can make a world of difference. Employers are not just interested in degrees—they want to see how you can contribute to their organization immediately.
Certifications show that you're proactive and committed to your field. For instance, a marketing student might obtain Google Analytics certification. This not only aids in demonstrating your technical expertise but also your drive to learn and adapt. Ultimately, such qualifications paint a more rounded picture of you as a candidate who takes initiative.
Some critical skills to consider highlighting include:
- Technical Skills: Programs or languages relevant to your field.
- Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, or leadership abilities you've showcased.
- Industry Certifications: Credentials that offer credibility and demonstrate your commitment.
Highlighting Volunteer Work or Internships
Internships and volunteer roles are often golden nuggets when it comes to resume refinement. They provide you with practical experience and showcase your engagement within your field of study.
Relevance to Your Degree
When you emphasize volunteer work or internships, make sure to tie them directly to your academic trajectory. For instance, if you're pursuing psychology but have interned at a non-profit that focuses on mental health, that experience is highly relevant. It shows that you are applying your studies in real-world settings, a characteristic employers appreciate.
This relevance is compelling in several ways:
- Practical Application: Demonstrates that you can take theoretical knowledge and apply it practically.
- Networking Connections: Often, these roles will allow you to meet industry professionals who might help you in future job searches.
- Skill Utilization: Experience in real-life situations lets you refine skills that are critical to your professional field.
Contribution to Skill Development
The experience gained from internships and volunteer work also contributes to skill development significantly. Each role has its own unique rewards—whether it’s enhancing your analytical abilities through data analysis in a marketing internship or improving your interpersonal skills while volunteering for a community service initiative.
Unique features of such experiences include:
- Diverse Skill Sets: Often, you'll wear multiple hats during your time volunteering or interning, which broadens your skill set.
- Generous Learning Environments: Many organizations are eager to teach and mentor, offering a fertile ground for personal growth.
- Potential Downside: While these experiences are enriching, they may not always signal high prestige compared to formal employment. Yet, when framed correctly, even these smaller roles can shine on your resume, especially if they resonate with your career aspirations.
In summary, incorporating these elements into your resume can provide a strong backbone to your educational credentials. They not only sustain the narrative of your commitment but also articulate how you’re already stepping up, even as you pursue your degree.
"In the game of careers, every point counts—make yours through every piece of relevant experience you can showcase."
Tailoring Your Resume for Different Job Applications
Crafting a resume is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. Rather, it requires a tailored approach, especially when you’re striving to highlight an in-progress degree. In this competitive job market, demonstrating an understanding of employer preferences can set you apart. Each organization has unique values and expectations, making it crucial to customize your application accordingly. A generic resume may not reflect your true potential. By tailoring your resume, you not only showcase your qualifications but also your genuine interest in the role.
Researching Employer Preferences
Before diving into writing or reworking your resume, spend some time understanding what employers in your desired field prioritize. This can often make the difference between landing an interview and getting lost in the shuffle. Here are a few steps you can take to dig deeper:
- Job Descriptions: Carefully analyze the requirements and keywords within job postings. Look for common phrases or qualifications that multiple postings ask for. This can give you insights into what skills are in demand.
- Company Websites: Many organizations have a dedicated section that outlines their values, mission, and culture. Understanding these elements will help you align your resume with what the employer stands for.
- Professional Networking: Join relevant groups on platforms like LinkedIn or Reddit. Engaging in conversations can provide you with anecdotal insights about what certain industries or roles truly value.
Taking the time to grasp what employers are specifically looking for can help shape the way you present your in-progress degree. Tailoring not just the wording but also the focus of your qualifications can demonstrate alignment with their needs.
Adapting the Education Section for Specific Roles
When it comes to your education, particularly if you’re in the midst of completing a degree, this section may benefit greatly from customization. For example, if you are applying for a position in financial literacy consulting, it’s vital to emphasize relevant coursework or special projects undertaken during your studies.
Here are some strategies to effectively adapt your education section:
- Highlight Relevant Courses: If you have taken courses that align with the job you're applying for, make sure to list them. For instance, if you’re pursuing a degree in finance, courses like "Investment Strategies" or "Personal Finance Management" should be front and center.
- Projects and Case Studies: Mention any hands-on projects or case studies that reflect practical applications of your education. Not only does this highlight your educational commitment, it also shows that you’re harnessing your knowledge in real-world contexts.
- Field-Specific Certifications: If you have any relevant certifications, do not hesitate to include these. A certification in financial planning could significantly enhance your appeal to employers in the financial sector.
By adjusting your education section to reflect your degree's relevance to the specific role, you communicate not only your qualifications but also your enthusiasm for the position. This level of detail can resonate well with hiring managers who appreciate candidates that have done their homework.
The Role of Networking in Career Advancement
Networking is a powerful tool when it comes to growing a career. It's more than just collecting business cards or connecting on LinkedIn. It’s about building genuine relationships that cultivate support, guidance, and new opportunities. Especially for individuals still navigating their degree journey, effective networking becomes critical. A degree in progress can actually serve as a unique springboard to forge connections that can aid in both professional and personal development.
Starting conversations about your educational pursuits often opens doors to opportunities that might otherwise go unnoticed. You mention that you’re pursuing a degree, it subtly communicates that you are committed to personal growth. This dedication not only impresses potential employers but can resonate well with fellow professionals who appreciate the effort of ongoing learning. They may have been in similar shoes and would be more willing to offer their insights or opportunities.
How Your Degree Influences Networking Opportunities
When you’re actively working towards a degree, it grants you a context to connect with industry professionals. The simple act of attending classes or engaging in group studies puts you alongside like-minded individuals and often opens up pathways to mentorship. Here’s how your degree can shape these opportunities:
- Common Ground: Sharing a field of study helps break the ice in networking situations. You can discuss professors, projects, or industry trends. This commonality serves as a strong foundation for relationships.
- Engaging in Events: Academic and professional events often encourage networking. Workshops, seminars, or career fairs typically attract people from various sectors. Your degree can provide talking points, making you feel more at home in such environments.
- Student Organizations: Participating in student associations can link you with peers and alumni. These connections can be pivotal in your career journey, leading you to internships or job offers that align with your skills.
Equally important, possessing an in-progress degree can showcase your commitment to your chosen field. This perceptible passion draws in professionals who share your dedication and might be willing to mentor you or provide valuable insights. It's all about making your educational aspirations work for you.
Leveraging Connections for Job Leads
Utilizing your network to find job leads is an art. Often, job searches can feel like a slog, but networking can transform this process into a more organic and rewarding experience. Let’s look at how to maximize your connections:
- Talk to Everyone: Don’t shy away from discussing your degree and career aspirations. Friends, family, and acquaintances might connect you with a great opportunity without you even realizing it.
- Utilize Social Media: Platforms like LinkedIn can significantly extend your reach. Share updates about your degree and any projects you're involved in. Engaging with industry-specific groups and forums on LinkedIn can also produce job leads. You can find others in your network who may be hiring or know of openings.
- Ask for Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals in your desired field. Informational interviews not only offer insights into career paths but may lead to potential job opportunities. You discuss your in-progress degree and what skills you are developing, this shows initiative and can impress your contacts.
- Follow Up: Always maintain contact after establishing a connection. A simple email checking in or sharing relevant articles can keep you on their radar, leading to future job opportunities when they arise.
In closing, networking can greatly enhance the visibility and credibility of those pursuing degrees. The relationships you build by sharing your educational journey are invaluable. Building your network isn’t a finite task — it's ongoing, and with each connection, you fortify your position in the job market.
Practical Tips for Resume Refinement
When it comes to job hunting, having a polished resume can make all the difference. As candidates look to showcase their in-progress degrees effectively, understanding the nuances of resume refinement is paramount. Practical tips for resume refinement not only help in presenting qualifications in the best light but also can significantly influence first impressions among hiring managers. The clarity and precision of a resume reflect an applicant’s professionalism and attention to detail, qualities that potential employers value highly.
Reviewing for Clarity and Precision
Clarity and precision are two cornerstones of an impactful resume. Employers often skim through numerous resumes in a short span. Therefore, presenting information clearly ensures your qualifications stand out amid the competition. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Conciseness is Key: Summarize each experience and achievement in clear, concise statements. Instead of lengthy paragraphs, opt for bullet points where feasible. For instance:
- Tailored Language: Different jobs might require specific skills. Use keywords from the job description to align your resume with the employer's needs. This demonstrates that you are not just broad-strokes applying but specifically interested in that role.
- Avoid Ambiguities: Each statement should leave no room for interpretation. Rather than saying "Performed well in classes," articulate precisely what those performances entailed—"Achieved an average of 90% in core Financial Management courses."
- "Completed coursework in Financial Analysis, focusing on investments and portfolio management."
- "Led a team project for Marketing Strategies, resulting in a 15% increase in customer engagement."
"A resume is a reflection of your professional identity. Ensuring clarity and precision transforms it into a powerful marketing tool."
Utilizing Feedback from Peers and Mentors
Seeking feedback from peers and mentors can significantly enhance resume quality. Sometimes, we're too familiar with our own work that we overlook critical areas for improvement. Inviting others to review your resume can shed light on aspects you might have missed and suggestions on how to enhance its overall appeal. Here are some strategies:
- Peer Review: Share your resume with friends or colleagues within your field. They can offer insights on trends or expectations that may not be on your radar. A fresh set of eyes can catch errors that you might have glossed over.
- Mentorship: If possible, reach out to mentors who have navigated similar career paths. Their experienced perspective can be invaluable, especially regarding tailoring your resume for specific roles or industries.
- Consider the Audience: Much like clarity is essential, understanding who will read your resume can shift how you present yourself. Mentors in high-level positions may offer a different outlook than a peer who's just starting their career.
By integrating feedback, you not only enhance the quality of your resume but also signal openness to growth and development—traits that are attractive to potential employers.
Refining your resume is an ongoing process. Each round of feedback and adjustments builds a stronger and more compelling narrative that resonates with hiring managers, showcasing your potential as a candidate with a forward-thinking mindset.
Epilogue: The Strategic Advantage of Listing Degrees in Progress
When weaving your academic journey into your resume, showcasing a degree in progress can be a strategic move worth its weight. It transcends mere formality and speaks volumes about your commitment to education and self-improvement. Rather than viewing the in-progress status as a gap in your qualifications, consider it a demonstrative strength that aligns with the modern job market's expectations.
Summarizing Key Insights
As we've navigated through this article, several key points emerge about listing degrees in progress:
- Demonstrates Commitment: By presenting your ongoing educational journey, you signal to potential employers that you’re dedicated to personal and professional growth. This is particularly appealing in industries that thrive on continuous learning.
- Enhances Employability: In a competitive job landscape, educational qualifications often serve as a differentiator. Listing your in-progress degree can enhance your profile and increase your chances of catching the eye of recruiters.
- Validates Relevant Skills: Many in-progress degrees include coursework that is relevant across various fields. Highlighting this not only showcases your knowledge but also positions you as a candidate with applicable skills that meet job requirements.
"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - W.B. Yeats
This aptly sums up the essence of listing degrees in progress; it reflects your willingness to ignite curiosity and innovation within your chosen field.
Encouraging Proactive Career Management
Being proactive about your career is a trait that can set you apart. By effectively integrating your in-progress degrees into your resume, you position yourself as forward-thinking and organized. Here are some considerations:
- Regular Updates: Keep your resume updated with your progress. As you complete courses or accrue credits, be timely in reflecting these achievements on your resume. This not only showcases your advancement but also keeps your qualifications current.
- Networking Opportunities: Engage with peers and professionals within your field. Discuss your academic pursuits and seek advice or mentorship. Sharing your journey can often lead to valuable connections, opening doors to internships or job leads.
- Skill Development: Actively pursue internships, volunteer work, or additional certifications while studying. This complements your in-progress degree and highlights your ability to balance multiple responsibilities, a trait highly sought after by employers.
