How to Make a Resume for a High School Student
Creating a resume for a high school student can be a challenging yet rewarding task. A well-crafted resume can help students showcase their skills, experiences, and accomplishments, making them stand out to potential employers, college admissions officers, or even scholarship committees. In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating an impressive resume for a high school student.
1. Choose the Right Format
The first step in creating a high school student resume is to choose the right format. There are three main formats to consider: chronological, functional, and combination. The chronological format is the most common and is suitable for students with limited work experience. The functional format focuses on skills and abilities, while the combination format combines both chronological and functional elements. For high school students, the chronological format is often the best choice.
2. Include Personal Information
At the top of your resume, include your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile (if applicable). Make sure your contact information is up-to-date and professional. Avoid using a casual email address, such as one with a nickname or a yearbook theme.
3. Write a Brief Objective or Summary
Next, include a brief objective or summary section that highlights your goals and strengths. This section should be concise, around three to five sentences long. For example, “High school student with a passion for technology and a strong academic record, seeking an internship in software development to gain practical experience.”
4. List Your Education
Include your high school name, graduation date, and any relevant coursework or honors. If you have taken advanced courses or received high grades in specific subjects, make sure to mention them. For example, “Graduated from XYZ High School, May 2023; GPA: 3.8; AP English Literature, AP Calculus AB.”
5. Highlight Work Experience
Even if you have limited work experience, you can still include any relevant jobs, volunteer work, or internships. List the job title, company name, and dates of employment. Focus on the responsibilities and accomplishments you achieved in each role. For example, “Babysitter, June 2022 – Present; Care for children of various ages, assist with homework, and organize playdates.”
6. Showcase Your Skills
Include a section dedicated to your skills. This can include both hard skills (such as programming, writing, or public speaking) and soft skills (such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving). Make sure to tailor your skills list to the specific job or opportunity you are applying for.
7. Add Extracurricular Activities
Extracurricular activities can demonstrate your dedication, leadership, and teamwork. Include any clubs, sports, or organizations you have been involved with, along with your role and any achievements. For example, “Captain of the school’s debate team, 2022 – 2023; Led the team to win the regional championship.”
8. Proofread and Edit
Before submitting your resume, make sure to proofread and edit it for any spelling, grammar, or formatting errors. Have a friend or family member review it as well to ensure it is clear and concise.
9. Save and Share Your Resume
Save your resume in a PDF format to ensure it maintains its formatting across different devices. Share your resume through email, LinkedIn, or other professional platforms, and keep it updated as you gain new experiences and accomplishments.
By following these steps, you can create a professional and impressive resume for a high school student. Remember, your resume is a reflection of your skills and experiences, so take the time to make it shine.
