Student Resume Templates

Student resume templates tips

Why students need a resume

Many students wonder if they even need a resume, especially if they’re only seeking part-time or seasonal jobs. However, having a resume early on helps you document your skills, activities, and achievements, making it easier to update as your experience grows. Building a resume as a student isn’t just for job applications; it can be useful for applying to internships, scholarships, and even some academic programs.

The best resume format for students

For students, choosing the right resume format is crucial. Without a lengthy work history, a functional resume—also known as a skills-based resume—often works best. This format highlights skills over job experience, making it ideal for students who may only have limited or informal work to showcase. Alternatively, the combination format offers a hybrid approach, blending both skills and a short work history section. This can be helpful if you’ve held part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer positions and want to balance both skills and experience on your resume.

Writing a resume as a student

When you’re just starting out, building a resume can feel like a challenge, but a clear, structured approach helps. Start with your name, contact information, and, if relevant, a link to your LinkedIn profile or portfolio. The next section, often called the summary or objective, should be short—one to two sentences that highlight your goals and strongest attributes. For example, “Dedicated high school senior with strong analytical skills, seeking an opportunity to expand my understanding of environmental science through hands-on research.” Your education section should follow, listing your school, expected graduation date, and relevant coursework, especially if it aligns with your career interests.

Be sure to include a skills section, even if it’s concise. This might include technical abilities like Microsoft Office, Google Suite, or Adobe Photoshop if you’re interested in design. Other valuable skills might include problem-solving, teamwork, or communication, especially if they apply to roles you’re seeking. Afterward, list any part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer experiences, focusing on your achievements or responsibilities. Extracurricular activities also matter, especially if they demonstrate leadership or commitment, like leading a debate club or organizing a community event.

Crafting a good objective for a student resume

An objective on a student resume should be concise and clearly state your goals. Avoid vague statements like “Seeking to expand my skills.” Instead, tailor it to the position you’re applying for, such as “Motivated senior with a passion for technology, aiming to apply my coding and analytical skills in an entry-level software development internship.” This approach makes your objective specific and relevant, demonstrating that you’ve put thought into the role.

Adding minor experiences to your resume

Even seemingly small or informal jobs, like babysitting or lawn care, can look good on a resume when described thoughtfully. Highlight the skills you used or developed in these roles, such as time management, responsibility, or communication. For example, instead of just listing “Babysitter,” you could say, “Provided reliable childcare for three families, developing strong communication and time-management skills.”

Should high schoolers have a resume?

A resume is valuable for high schoolers, even if they’re only applying to part-time jobs or volunteer positions. Not only does it show that you’re organized and goal-oriented, but it also helps you track your own growth and achievements over time. A simple resume listing education, skills, and a few volunteer or extracurricular roles can set you apart, showing potential employers or admissions officers that you’re prepared and proactive.

Choosing a format for high school students

The functional resume format is often the best fit for high school students. It allows you to focus on your skills and achievements, even if you haven’t held formal jobs. List any skills you’ve gained through school projects, volunteer work, or extracurriculars. For example, skills like “team collaboration,” which you may have gained in sports or group projects, or “public speaking,” if you’ve been active in the debate club, can make a strong impression.

Making your resume stand out for college applications

To make a resume that stands out for college applications, focus on your most unique experiences. Highlight achievements that showcase your skills, character, and commitment. For example, if you led a community recycling initiative that reduced school waste, describe the project’s impact and your role in making it happen. Include any awards, recognitions, or special projects that demonstrate your dedication to personal growth and learning.