The professional portfolio is a collection of documents, intentionally arranged and assembled in a ring binder, which serves as documentation of your achievements, including scholastic and work related. Portfolios have been used by artists, journalists and education professionals for a number of years. Now they are for everyone.

Numerous students have used the portfolio in recent interview situations. They have found that they have had an advantage, and some claim to have received a position as a result of their well-constructed, properly presented portfolio. It is something you can do to give yourself an added advantage in today's competitive job market.

Start now collecting your letters of commendation, your awards letters, your thank you letters sent to you, and any and all information that reflects your contributions to your field. Then follow the guidelines from the portfolio presentation to develop your winning portfolio.