A section dedicated to personal pursuits on a curriculum vitae provides potential employers with a glimpse into a candidate’s personality, passions, and motivations beyond the professional sphere. For example, listing activities like coding open-source projects, competitive chess, or volunteer work at an animal shelter can illustrate valuable skills such as problem-solving, strategic thinking, and empathy.
Including such a section can differentiate a candidate from others with similar qualifications, offering a richer, more holistic portrayal. This personalized touch can help create a memorable impression and spark conversation during interviews, potentially revealing shared interests and values. Furthermore, in certain industries or roles where creativity, passion, or specific hobbies are directly relevant, this information can become a key differentiator and demonstrate a genuine alignment with the company culture.