Rasmussen College of Minnesota has begun offering a virtual resume and online career preparation tool for students to use as they prepare for the job market.

Optimal Resume is an online service for students to produce and manage resumes, cover letters, and other career-specific material. Students who use Optimal Resume through Rasmussen College will receive interview training, self assessments, and have the ability to create virtual video resumes. In addition, students will be able to use a career exploration component that utilizes the U.S. Department of Labor career database known as O*Net.

"In this job market, people need to do everything they can to be competitive," National Director of Career Services Tami Hanson said. "The first step is getting your degree. The next step is employing the tools that Rasmussen College provides you with, including this virtual resume tool."

Students who use Optimal Resume can also build their own websites.

"Technology is changing the way we do everything, including looking for jobs," Hanson said. "Now, students can direct potential employers to their website, their online portfolios, their video cover letters, and more.”