Alvernia College - Career Services

Portfolio Power

for Education Majors

What is a portfolio
What to include
How it should look
Other resources

What is a portfolio?

The portfolio is both a reflective, self-monitoring document and an evaluation tool. When used in the job search process, all of those characteristics come into play. Whether or not an employer asks to see the portfolio, the process of building it will have helped you to grow and reflect and develop professionally as well as assisted you in preparing for an interview situation by collecting not only your thoughts about your skills, experiences, accomplishments, but concrete examples of that history, as well.

The portfolio can document your
- experiences
- training
- preparation
- skills
- accomplishments
- plans for professional growth
Entries can come from a variety of sources:
- professional experience
- related academic experiences
- volunteer or community affiliation

What to include:

Job seeking portfolios might include:
- resume
- transcripts
- clearances
- certificates
- sample student work
- photographs
- newspaper articles
- conference programs
- evaluations
- letters of recommendation
- philosophy statement
- lesson plans
- professional development plans

Remember what you are trying to prove or demonstrate. Other possibilities might be

language experiences
experiences in diverse cultures
unique personality traits or skills

To indicate the possibility of a portfolio, you may wish to indicate "Professional Portfolio Available for Review" as a final resume statement.

How should it look:

three ring binder and plastic sheet covers will offer flexibility and an attractive appearance
reflective captions or statements help readers see your point
consider organizing it by theme or category to give it some sense
presentation should show some creativity and individuality, but not overshadow the content

You will find that portfolios are typically used after the initial screening interview and that building principals and building interview teams will be most interested. Look for opportunities to offer your portfolio for review during the interview.

Other resources on portfolio development

AAEE Job Search Handbook for Educators (current year)

Kimeldorf, M. (1997). Portfolio Power: Ways to Showcase All Your Job Skills and Experiences. Peterson's: Princeton, NJ.

Campbell, D.M. et al (1997) How to Develop a Professional Portfolio : A Manual for Teachers. Allyn and Bacon: Boston.