how to make a student resume

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Resume Summary Examples for Students (With How-to Guide)

Writing a great resume summary can make a big difference when you're a student looking for a job. This short overview of your skills is the first thing employers see, so it's important to get it right. Even if you don't have much work experience, you can create a strong student resume summary showing employers why you'd be a great choice.

This guide will show you how to write an effective resume summary. We'll give you resume summary examples for students and useful tips to help you stand out when applying for jobs.

What is a resume summary?

A resume summary, also called a professional summary, is a short statement at the top of your resume that shows your main skills, qualifications, and career goals. For students, it's a chance to highlight your school achievements, important classes you've taken, and any internships or volunteer work that relates to the job you want.

A good resume summary is usually two to four sentences long and should:

• Get the reader's attention
• Show your most important qualifications
• Explain why you'd be valuable to the company
• Match what the job description asks for

For students, a well-written summary can make up for not having much work experience by focusing on skills you've learned and things you've achieved in school.

How to write a student resume summary

Writing an excellent student resume summary takes some thought and planning. Here's a step-by-step way to create an effective summary:

• Read the job description carefully: Look at what skills and qualifications the employer wants.
• Think about your strengths: Consider your school achievements, relevant classes, projects, and any internships or volunteer work.
• Choose what to focus on: Pick 2-3 main points that match what the job needs.
• Start with a strong first sentence: Begin by introducing yourself and saying what you're studying.
• Talk about relevant skills: Mention skills that fit the job description, including both specific and general skills.
• Include achievements: Mention any important things you've done in school or extracurricular activities.
• Share your career goals: Briefly say what you want to do professionally, especially if it fits with the job or company.
• Keep it short: Aim for 2-4 sentences that really show your value.

Remember to change your resume summary for each job you apply to. Don't use the same general statement for every application. Instead, focus on what makes you a good fit for that specific job.

What to include in a resume summary

When writing your student resume summary, think about including these things:

• Your current education: Mention your degree, what you're studying, and when you expect to graduate.
• Relevant skills: Talk about both specific and general skills that fit what the job needs.
• School achievements: Include things like a high GPA, being on the dean's list, or any awards you've won.
• Relevant classes or projects: Mention any courses or projects that show skills the job requires.
• Internship or volunteer experience: If you have any, briefly talk about work experience that relates to the job.
• Career goals: Say what you want to do professionally, especially if it matches the job.
• Personal qualities: Highlight traits that make you a good fit for the role and the company's culture.

Here's an example of how these parts might come together:

"Hardworking Computer Science student at XYZ University with a 3.8 GPA, looking for an entry-level software development job. Proficient in Java, Python, and C++, with experience in mobile app development for school projects. Exceptional problem-solving skills and a love for developing efficient, user-friendly apps."

Professional resume summary for college students

To help you understand how to write your own resume summary, here are some resume profile examples for students for college students in different fields:

• Business Administration Student: 

"Third-year Business Administration student at ABC University specialized in Marketing. Skilled at analyzing data and using social media for marketing, shown by successfully promoting campus events. Looking for a marketing internship to apply what I've learned in class in a real-world setting."

• Nursing Student: 

"Caring Nursing student in last year at DEF College with a 3.9 GPA. Have over 500 hours of experience in different healthcare settings. Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in high-pressure environments. Seeking an entry-level nursing job to help provide patient-centered care."

• Engineering Student: 

"Creative Mechanical Engineering student at GHI Institute with hands-on experience using CAD software and 3D printing. Led a team project making an energy-saving prototype, showing good leadership and problem-solving skills. Looking for an internship to learn more about sustainable design."

• Education Student: 

"Passionate Elementary Education major at JKL University with experience tutoring diverse learners. Skilled at putting together engaging lesson plans and using technology for teaching. Searching for a student teaching position to apply innovative teaching methods and foster a positive learning environment."

• Graphic Design Student: 

"Creative Graphic Design student at MNO College with proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite. My portfolio shows brand identity projects and digital drawings. Great at managing time, learned from doing freelance work. Looking for an internship to learn and bring new ideas to a dynamic design team."

These examples show how to make your resume summary fit your field of study and career goals. Remember to change your summary for each job you apply to, focusing on the skills and experiences that matter most for that specific job.

Writing an exceptional resume summary as a student is an important skill that can really help you get a job. By following this guide and looking at the resume profile examples for students we provided, you can write a strong summary that shows your potential and makes you stand out from other applicants.

Remember, your resume summary is just the start. To make a really standout resume, you need to pay attention to every part. If you want help writing your resume, use Aithor , a versatile writing tool that can help you polish your writing and ensure that your resume looks professional.

With practice and persistence, you can write a professional summary for a resume college student that opens doors to exciting job opportunities.

Good luck with your job search!

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18 Résumé Writing Tips to Help You Stand Out

By  Allison Pohle

Updated May 11, 2021 2:15 pm ET

• A résumé isn’t just a list of every job you’ve ever had. It should demonstrate your accomplishments.
• Mirror language used in the job posting so your résumé isn’t discarded by an applicant tracking system.
• Use a clean and simple format. 

Companies increasingly  rely on software  to sort through applicants, which is why it is essential to tailor your résumé to ensure it makes the cut. Applicant tracking systems sort, scan and rank applicants by looking for keywords in applications. Although these programs can save time and money for employers, about 60% said such tools cause them to miss some qualified candidates, according to a 2016 survey of 1,200 job seekers and managers by CareerArc, a human-resources technology company, and Future Workplace, a research firm. Here’s how to make your résumé stand out to robots and humans alike. 

1. Highlight your achievements in your résumé. 

A common mistake job seekers make is believing a résumé is a recap of your career, when in reality, it should convey what you have accomplished, says Christy Noel, a career expert and author of “Your Personal Career Coach.” 

“I always say, spend less of your real estate describing your job, and more time describing your results,” says Ms. Noel.  

2. Customize your résumé.

Read over the job posting, and think about the work experience you have had that is most directly relevant to the position you are pursuing. You can leave out some past jobs and internships if the experience you had wasn’t related. Whatever you do: Don’t submit a generic résumé to dozens of postings. “Even if you have the best experience, if your résumé isn’t speaking directly to the position in which you are applying, there is a strong chance you’ll never even get an interview,” says Demisha Jennings, a certified professional résumé writer and founder and owner of She Assists LLC.  

The same applies to your cover letter. It is your chance to provide more detail on how your experience will help you succeed in the job.  Read our cover letter guide  for how to write one that makes you stand out.

3. Decide how to format your résumé.

Most of the time, a chronological résumé will work well for communicating your past experience. But, in some cases, a functional or hybrid résumé might be more appropriate.  Read more about résumé formats here.

4. Make your contact information easy to find.

Include your name, phone number, email address, city and state. It may also be appropriate to include the URL to your LinkedIn profile. You want it to be easy for hiring managers to reach out.

In addition to making it easy to connect with you, it is important to your job search that you grow your network.  Read our networking guide  for tips on how to do so.

5. Consider adding a summary. 

Many résumé templates leave space for an objective statement, outlining career goals, but that approach is outdated, says Ms. Jennings. Instead, consider a carefully worded summary. The summary is often the first place a hiring manager will look, and gives you an opportunity to introduce your skills high up on the page. You can also work in relevant keywords from the job description. “Recruiters are looking for what you can bring to the table and what you’ve done, rather than you saying, ‘I’m seeking a position,’” Ms. Jennings says. 

6. Great résumés should stand out to skim readers.

Most recruiters spend just a few seconds skimming through a résumé—with an average in one study of  7.4 seconds.  

To have the best chance of making an impression, ensure your job titles, company names and dates of employment are easy to read. The sections of your résumé should be adequately spaced, too, says Dana Leavy-Detrick, founder and director of Brooklyn Resume Studio. 

For additional ways to make a good impression on recruiters and headhunters, read  our guide on how to work with headhunters .

7. Make your résumé robot-friendly. 

Structure your résumé to meet the requirements of an applicant tracking system to give yourself the best chance of having it reach an actual human. Ms. Leavy-Detrick suggests the following:

• Optimize keywords.  Use the same words and language that are in the job description. For example, three different companies might describe the same role as “programmer,” “developer” or “software engineer.” 
• Use a straightforward format.  Avoid tables and text-based graphics, which might not get picked up by a scan of the résumé. Sans-serif fonts such as Arial or Helvetica are also best to ensure readability.
• Think about order.  When formatting each line item of work experience, list the company name first, followed by the job location (city, state), your job title, and your start and end dates. Some résumés can get lost if the dates are listed before the job title. 

8. Prioritize relevant keywords. 

Tailoring your skills to include language from the job posting is an important way to let both the applicant tracking system and, eventually, a hiring manager, see how your prior qualifications tie into the job requirements. But just because you have a résumé full of keywords doesn’t mean you’ll automatically get an interview. “The ATS isn’t there to help the job seeker, it is there to help the employer review your skills against their most important qualifications,” says Ashley Watkins, a career coach and résumé writer with Write Step Résumés LLC. 

9. Craft compelling and concise bullet points.

The goal of a résumé is to list your accomplishments, rather than every duty you performed in the role. Résumé-writing experts recommend including no more than five bullet points per prior job listed. 

• Don’t focus on tasks.  Many job seekers describe what they did every day, such as answering phones or creating marketing materials, Ms. Watkins says. “Simply copying and pasting the job description doesn’t account for the things you did great, that you did above and beyond your peers,” she says.
• Instead, explain what those tasks achieved.  Emphasize your results. Ms. Watkins suggests asking yourself “Did I save [the employer] money? Did I save time? Did I improve a process? Did I build a relationship?” These will help you format your bullet points.
• Use metrics.  Say what you achieved, then contextualize it—with figures if possible. You might not be able to put a monetary value on every accomplishment, but you can frame it by sharing details like the time it took or how many people were involved. “If you raised sales 50% in two months, that means a whole lot more than ‘I’m in charge of sales,’” Ms. Watkins says. 
• Don’t omit accomplishments that aren’t quantifiable.  Not every achievement will have metrics to show success. If there are figures, you might not always have access to them. But that shouldn’t stop you from including them, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. Perhaps you had a positive impact on the culture of an organization, or improved a struggling relationship with a client. These efforts could help to demonstrate your  soft skills.

10. Focus on transferable skills if you lack experience.

If you are applying for a job in a new field or you are an entry-level applicant and don’t have much direct experience, don’t worry. Highlight transferable skills you have developed in the past that will serve you well in the position, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. For example, you could play up leadership skills you developed participating in an extracurricular activity or time-management skills you learned in a prior job.

11. Go beyond your work history, and include all relevant experience.

If you are new to the workforce, or are job-hunting after being laid off, you could also include related experience that was outside of a traditional full-time job, says Ms. Watkins. For example, you can highlight volunteer work, consulting projects or educational training, all as part of making the case for your unique value, she says.

12. Don’t worry too much about gaps in your résumé.

The Covid-19 pandemic economy resulted in many people being laid off or furloughed. Ms. Watkins says the 2020 job market reminds her of 2008, when she worked as a recruiter. The expectation at that time, she says, was that candidates would have  gaps  on their résumés or list more short-term positions. While it isn’t necessary to directly address the gaps in your résumé, you should be  prepared to talk about them in an interview . “The focus should not be centered on the fact that you were furloughed or laid off, it should be focused on you and your skills and what you do that impacts the company’s bottom line in a positive way,” Ms. Watkins says.

While it is common to list the months and years you started and ended positions in the job history section, you could just use years. This will draw less attention to a six- or eight-month gap, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. 

13. Highlight relevant skills.

It is common to  add a skills section to your résumé , outlining expertise relevant to the position. You can include languages you speak, technical skills or courses you have done. If you lack experience, you can also complete some trainings, which you can find on LinkedIn and elsewhere, related to the job you are applying for and add the courses in this section, says Ms. Jennings.

14. Prioritize work experience over education.

The professional experience you have had is often more relevant to the position than your education history, which is why the work experience should be listed first. In the “Education” section, you should list where you attended college, if applicable, or the highest level of education you have attained. If you graduated with honors, you can flag that, but it isn’t necessary to list your GPA.

15. If you are early on in your career, a key résumé tip is to limit it to one page. 

If you are early on in your career, you should limit your résumé to one page. It is OK to start spilling onto a second page after you have eight to 10 years of experience, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. 

16. Add some color for a stylish résumé that sets you apart. 

Your résumé should look clean and professional and you should keep applicant tracking systems in mind when formatting the document. But, if it is appropriate, you can add subtle accents of color in the section headings or in bars that separate sections as a way to differentiate your résumé. Ms. Leavy-Detrick doesn’t overstress the need for good design with her clients. “But it can definitely help,” she says. “When I say design, I don’t mean crazy graphic design. I mean having a polished application,” she says. “Think of it the same way you would coming dressed to an interview, it is part of your presentation, and so many people overlook this on the résumé.”

It may be appropriate to incorporate a more creative and graphic-based layout depending on the field in which you work and where you are applying. If you are applying for a position in a creative field, and you are emailing your résumé directly to a hiring manager, then it can be appropriate to use more designs, says Ms. Jennings. But if you are applying to a large company that uses an applicant tracking system or job portal, she says it is best to avoid using graphics unless you are working with a résumé writer who can help you get your resume through the system.

17. Proofread and double-check the formatting.

You may be eager to send your résumé or submit your application, but you should take the time to first check for typos and grammatical errors. You could also have a friend or family member look over it. When you are checking for errors, be sure to double-check the formatting. Sometimes the spacing can get thrown off when you save the file, so check how it looks as a saved document and, if you can, save it as a PDF before sending. 

18. Make sure the saved file name includes your name. 

Make less work for the hiring manager by including your full name in the file name of the résumé document.

What to read next

• How to Prepare for a Job Interview
• What Questions to Ask During a Job Interview
• Common Job Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
• How to Dress for a Job Interview
• How to Write a Thank-You Email After a Job Interview  
• How to Negotiate and Counter a Job Offer
• How to Negotiate Salary for a New Job: The Do’s and Don’ts
• Severance Pay: What It Is and Why You Should Negotiate a Package Before Accepting a Job

Corrections & Amplifications Ashley Watkins is a résumé writer with Write Step Résumés LLC. An earlier version of this article incorrectly said Write Steps LLC. (Corrected on Nov. 20)

Copyright ©2024 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8

Appeared in the November 23, 2020, print edition as '11 Résumé Tips to Help You Get Noticed

More From Forbes

New updates issued on student loan forgiveness credit during save plan forbearance.

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WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 30: U.S. President Joe Biden is joined by Education Secretary Miguel Cardona ... [+] (L) speaks on his student loan forgiveness plan at the White House on June 30, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

The Education Department unveiled some important updates to published guidance for borrowers pursuing student loan forgiveness who are being impacted by the ongoing SAVE plan forbearance .

SAVE, which stands for Saving on a Valuable Education, is a new income-driven repayment program launched by the Biden administration last fall. The plan has several significant benefits including reduced payments, a subsidy that prevents loan balances from ballooning due to interest, and eventual student loan forgiveness. But this spring, after millions of borrowers had already enrolled in SAVE or were converted from REPAYE, its predecessor plan, two groups of Republican-led states filed legal challenges seeking to block the program.

Earlier this month, the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals issued a sweeping injunction that halts implementation of the SAVE plan. As a result of the court order, the Education Department has put millions of borrowers into a forbearance, and temporarily has stopped processing IDR applications, leaving many Americans in limbo as the litigation continues.

Here are the latest updates, and what borrowers need to know about IDR, PSLF, and student loan forgiveness as the SAVE plan forbearance continues.

How The SAVE Plan Forbearance Works For Those Pursuing Student Loan Forgiveness

During the SAVE plan forbearance, covered borrowers will not have to make payments on their student loans. In addition, no interest will accrue, so their balances will not grow.

But the time spent in the forbearance will not count toward student loan forgiveness under IDR plans, or for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. PSLF is a separate program that permits student loan forgiveness in as little as 10 years for borrowers who are employed full-time for qualifying nonprofit or government organizations, although most borrowers need to be in an IDR plan in order to make qualifying payments. PSLF is not being challenged as part of the SAVE plan litigation, but borrowers pursuing PSLF may be impacted, as the forbearance effectively pauses student loan forgiveness progress .

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Today’s nyt mini crossword clues and answers for wednesday, august 28th, microsoft update leak—good news revealed for 30% of windows users, new guidance narrows idr options for those looking to switch plans to resume loan forgiveness progress.

Previously, the Education Department had indicated that borrowers in the SAVE plan forbearance could switch to a different IDR plan to maintain progress toward loan forgiveness under IDR and PSLF. The department had said that any of the other IDR plans would be available, if borrowers qualify.

However, the updated guidance issued on Monday provides a more complicated picture of alternative IDR options. “Borrowers may apply for the following income-driven repayment (IDR) plans: SAVE (previously known as REPAYE) and Income-Based Repayment (IBR),” says the guidance.

Previously, the department had indicated that borrowers could also apply for Income-Contingent Repayment or Pay-As-You-Earn, but the new guidance restricts access to those plans.

“Borrowers should note that under the court’s injunction, no new enrollments are being accepted for the PAYE or ICR Plans, with two exceptions: borrowers who applied for the PAYE or ICR Plan before July 1, 2024, and borrowers who applied for the PAYE or ICR plan between July 18 and August 9, if approved for that plan, and borrowers with a consolidation loan that repaid a parent PLUS loan can continue to enroll in the ICR Plan (but not the PAYE Plan),” says the department.

By way of background, PAYE and ICR were supposed to be phased out for new borrowers starting on July 1 under the SAVE plan regulations. But the 8th Circuit’s actions scrambled those rules. The court issued a temporary stay on July 18, then broadened that stay into a more sweeping injunction on August 9. The Education Department appears to be allowing new enrollments in PAYE and ICR for those who applied during the administrative stay period, but not after the court enacted the injunction.

Complications Remain For Switching IDR Plans, Says Updated Student Loan Forgiveness Guidance

As a practical matter, borrowers applying for IDR plans or looking to switch should be aware of several important considerations:

First, the online IDR application remains down. Borrowers can apply via a paper application, but “Borrowers should also note that, as result of the injunction, servicers have temporarily paused processing of IDR applications until we can ensure applications are processed correctly,” says the updated guidance. “Borrowers should expect a lengthy delay in processing of applications, especially for borrowers applying for SAVE/REPAYE. We do not currently have an estimate of how long this will take.”

In addition, as long as SAVE remains blocked, borrowers can apply for SAVE, but they won’t be permitted to actually enroll unless the injunction is lifted. “Borrowers are still permitted to apply for IDR plans, including SAVE (previously known as REPAYE), even though the court has enjoined some of the SAVE and other IDR plan provisions,” says the department. But, “once applications are processed, borrowers who are enrolled in the SAVE Plan may be placed in a general forbearance if litigation remains ongoing or servicers cannot calculate payments at the amounts required by court orders. In this general forbearance, interest will not accrue, and time spent in this general forbearance will not count toward PSLF or IDR forgiveness.”

Taken together, the new guidance effectively means that for many borrowers, the only real option to switch from SAVE to another IDR plan is Income-Based Repayment, also known as IBR. IBR can be a much more expensive plan than SAVE, and also has a partial financial hardship requirement that may prevent some borrowers with higher incomes from enrolling.

“We encourage borrowers to review the specifics of each IDR plan as borrowers make the best choices for their circumstances,” says the department’s new guidance. “For example, if a borrower enrolls in IBR and then moves to a different repayment plan, accrued and unpaid interest will capitalize.”

Processing Forbearance Could Be A Workaround For Borrowers Close To Student Loan Forgiveness

In its new guidance, the Education Department makes a distinction between a “general forbearance” and a “processing forbearance:”

• A general forbearance can be for a variety of circumstances, and is the type of forbearance being imposed on borrowers enrolled in, or applying to, the SAVE plan. Time spent in the general forbearance does not count toward student loan forgiveness under IDR or PSLF.
• A processing forbearance is a type of forbearance that is briefly imposed on borrowers while certain applications, such as for IDR plans, are processed. Under new regulations enacted last year, a processing forbearance can count toward loan forgiveness under IDR or PSLF, albeit for a limited time.

“If servicers need time to process a borrower’s IDR application, servicers will move the borrower into a processing forbearance for up to 60 days,” says the updated Education Department guidance. “Interest accrues during this short-term processing forbearance, and it is eligible for PSLF and IDR for up to 60 days.”

This means that borrowers applying for an IDR plan, or seeking to switch from SAVE to IBR, could be placed into a processing forbearance for a month or two. While interest will accrue during that time period, it will count toward loan forgiveness under IDR and PSLF. This may not matter for many borrowers, but for those who are very close to their loan forgiveness threshold under either IDR or PSLF, that extra month or two could be enough to get them over the edge.

But there’s a significant caveat. “If the borrower’s application is not processed within in 60 days, the borrower will be moved into a general forbearance that does not count toward PSLF or IDR until their application is processed,” says the department.

The Education Department reiterated in its updated guidance that the new PSLF buyback program remains a possible workaround for those on track for student loan forgiveness under PSLF.

What Comes Next For Student Loan Forgiveness Rollercoaster

The Biden administration has appealed the 8th Circuit’s ruling to the Supreme Court . The nation’s highest court is also potentially considering a separate appeal from the 10th Circuit, which reached the opposite conclusion and allowed the SAVE plan to move forward while litigation over the program continues. The starkly different legal conclusions likely increases the chances that the Supreme Court will take up the matter — either issuing a relatively narrow decision only on the scope and effect of the injunction while the legal battles continue in the lower courts, or a broader ruling on the SAVE plan itself.

In the meantime, borrowers still face enormous uncertainty as the SAVE plan forbearance continues.

“The court order is preventing the Department from offering the SAVE Plan while litigation continues,” says the guidance. “Borrowers will be in this forbearance until the legal situation changes or servicers are able to send bills to borrowers at the appropriate monthly payment amount.”

“The terms of the SAVE Plan and other IDR plans are subject to the outcome of ongoing litigation,” warns the department — apparently referencing the fact that the 8th Circuit’s ruling called into question student loan forgiveness under other IDR plans, as well .

The recent court rulings threaten millions of borrowers “who have dutifully repaid their loans for up to 25 years by denying forgiveness that has been available under law for three decades,” said Education Secretary Miguel Cardona in a statement earlier this month. “We remain committed to supporting borrowers and fighting for the most affordable repayment options possible for millions of people across the country.”

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Bus companies, transportation consortium remain at odds over pay, planning system.

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Thousands of students in Renfrew County will likely have to find alternative ways to get to school next week after a group representing the region's school bus companies said there's little possibility a deal will be reached between the companies and the consortium that co-ordinates school transportation in the region.

The warning comes two weeks after the Renfrew County Joint Transportation Consortium (RCJTC)  sent a letter to families  saying school bus companies had rejected its most recent contract extension offers.

• Renfrew County school buses might not be operating at start of school year

In a statement posted online Tuesday, Renfrew County School Bus Operators spokesperson Alan Jackson said the RCJTC had "failed to meet a crucial deadline."

"Without immediate action, buses will not be operation on all routes until October," he warned, attributing the impasse to "the Consortium's refusal to negotiate a long-term, catch-up contract, and to grant access to an essential computerized planning system, critical for organizing complex bus routing."

Consortium representative Justin Jeffrey called the companies' threat to withhold bus service at the start of the school year an "unprecedented tactic," and said the RCJTC is aiming to get school buses back on the road as early as possible. 

The consortium coordinates 200 bus routes for students across the Renfrew County District School Board and the Renfrew County Catholic District School Board, providing service to some 10,000 students each school day.

Classes for students in both boards begin Wednesday, Sept. 4. 

Families urged to make other plans 

The bus companies have claimed the consortium is failing to pass along an extra $2.2 million allotted to Renfew County by Ontario's Ministry of Education for the upcoming school year.

The ministry said the combined transportation budget for the 2024/25 school year for both the public and Catholic boards is $18.3 million.

Despite Renfrew County's large geographic size, Jackson said the bus companies are paid at least 20 per cent less than their counterparts in Ottawa and Kingston, Ont. CBC has not independently verified that claim.

The drivers are not represented by a union.

The more I think about it, I want to pull my hair out.​​​​​​ - Kevin Sheaves, father of four

Jackson accused the consortium of trying to divide the region's six school bus companies by asking them to sign separate agreements. He said if the smaller companies bow to that pressure, the consortium could try to leverage that against the larger ones.

"We're saying no, we want to continue as a group and we can negotiate as a group," he said, though he warned the longer negotiations drag on, the more likely it is some drivers will seek employment elsewhere, potentially leading to a shortage.

Jeffrey noted the consortium is negotiating with for-profit bus companies, not with the drivers themselves, and said the RCJTC has "a lot of respect for bus drivers and the important work they do in our community."

He said the ministry offered the consortium a 12 per cent funding increase this year, more than it typically receives.

"This is an increase we've never seen before," he said. "In the past, we've been happy when the number has reached four or five per cent. Typically it's a zero per cent, two per cent."

For now, Jeffrey said the consortium is urging families to make other arrangements to get their kids to and from school next week.

Parents left scrambling

Kevin Sheaves, a father of four children who bus to school in Renfrew County, said that won't be so easy.

"The more I think about it, I want to pull my hair out," he said.

Sheaves, an HVAC mechanic, said he's usually at work an hour before his kids head out the door in the morning. His partner works similar hours, so the couple relies on buses and daycare during the school year.

"Everybody knows what the living situation is like right now," he said. "People need to be working, they need money, they got to put food on the table, that kind of thing, so it's going to be hard."

He said his family will likely have to rely on grandparents and friends to help out until the situation is resolved.

Shawna Walker said her two boys may not get to school at all. Walker, a single mother who doesn't own a car, said their school is too far for her children to walk, and she has no family in the area.

She's been exploring other options such as carpooling or sending her kids to school in a taxi, but neither option is ideal. 

Walker blamed the situation on the province, which funds student transportation.

"Bus drivers are important and they do deserve money, but the schools are already very underfunded, so where are they going to pull the money from?" she asked. "The government needs to realize that children are important, and I feel like in general we don't value children."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Gabrielle is an Ottawa-based journalist with eclectic interests. She's spoken to video game developers, city councillors, neuroscientists and small business owners alike. Reach out to her for any reason at [email protected].

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With files from Emma Weller, Isabel Harder and Kimberly Molina

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Free resume template for students and new grads

Download this professional resume template and get started building your resume.

Creating your first professional resume can feel intimidating. So, we’re here to help make it easier! We’ve created this free resume template to get you started. Just follow the steps to download, and then plug in your information to create a resume that recruiters will notice. And check our guide to creating a student or new grad resume with tips on what to include, and some important do’s and don’ts.

Want personalized guidance on your resume? Don't forget to consult your school's career services center !

The resume template includes:

Contact information: Type your first and last name, city and state, phone number and email address. Additional links, like an online portfolio, that are relevant to the roles you’re applying for also go in this section.

Summary: While optional, this “highlight reel” can help grab the employer’s attention and show why you’re a great candidate.

Education: Include your school name, major, degree, and your graduation month and year (or expected date). You can also list academic honors or awards, and courses you’ve taken or major projects completed that are relevant to the job.

Experience: List your experience in reverse chronological order—meaning the most recent experience goes first. If you don’t have a lot of previous work or internship experience, emphasize your involvement with clubs and organizations, volunteering opportunities, and other ways you’ve taken on leadership positions.

Skills: Include technical skills and soft skills—employers are looking for both in potential job candidates.

To create your resume:

• View the free resume template document .
• Click File in the upper left-hand corner.
• You can Make a Copy in Google docs or Download as a Word document.

4. If you made a copy, create a name for it and click OK .

5. Fill in your information. 6. Save your resume as a PDF and upload it to your Handshake profile !

Find the right jobs for you. Get hired.

Related stories, most recent stories.

Student Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

Whether you just graduated college or you’re taking a gap year before continuing your studies, one thing is for sure.

You’re looking for a job.

All that’s standing between you and your next position is a great resume.

But how can you write a resume that stands out from the crowd if all your experience so far is studying?

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Creating a compelling resume to help you stand out from the crowd is easy, even if you’re just starting on your career journey.

And in this guide, we’re going to teach you how. 

Here’s what we’re going to cover:

• What Makes a Great Student Resume Example
• 9 Steps to Writing an Amazing Student Resume
• What to Include In Your Student Resume

Ready? Let’s dive in!

Student Resume Example

That’s a great example of a student resume.

Let’s get into the ins and outs of what it does right:

• Keeps everything on one page. Hiring managers go through hundreds of resumes daily, so it’s important to stick to a one-page resume so they don’t discard your application straight away.
• Uses a reverse-chronological resume format. This is the favorite resume format for hiring managers worldwide since it puts your most recent achievements and experiences first.
• Includes professional contact details. This section should always contain your full name, a professional email address, phone number, location, and any relevant links to professional websites or social media profiles that might boost your application.
• Starts with an eye-catching resume objective. To grab the hiring manager’s attention, this student resume example starts with a strong resume objective to convey their top skills and their professional goal.
• Lists education first. Since this candidate is a recent graduate, their student resume places their education section at the very top and provides details on the relevant courses they’ve taken.
• Focuses on skills. The student resume example pictured above includes a tailored skills section that aligns with the job and shows what they can do for the employer.
• Organizes text in bullet points. This resume uses bullet points instead of large paragraphs, so the content of the resume is organized and easy to read.
• Includes optional sections. The candidate leverages optional sections such as languages and personal projects to add more value to their resume and stand out from other applicants with similar skills and qualifications.

9 Steps Toward the Perfect Student Resume

Now you know what an excellent student resume looks like.

It’s time to create your own.

First things first, let’s go over all the sections your resume should include .

The essential sections of a student resume are:

• Contact Information
• Resume Headline
• Work Experience

If you have leftover space on your resume, you can also use some of the following sections to make your application stand out:

Extracurricular Activities

• Personal Projects

Hobbies and Interests

• Volunteering
• Certificates

Awards and Recognitions

Publications.

As a student or recent graduate, don’t expect to include all of these sections in your resume. Instead, use them to your advantage. 

For example, you might not have any work experience, in which case you can replace that section with something else, such as an internship that helped you hone some essential skills for the job you're applying to.

We’ve split the process of creating your student resume into easy-to-follow steps, starting with:

#1. Pick the Right Format

Before you can fill out your resume, you need to decide on the best format for your job application.

There are three resume formats you can choose from:

• Reverse-chronological (also known as the chronological format)
• Functional (also known as the skill-based format)
• Combination (a mix of the reverse-chronological and functional formats)

For 99% of cases, we recommend that you choose the reverse-chronological resume format when making your student resume.

The reverse-chronological format is the most practical, since it lists your most recent experience and achievements first, making it the perfect format when you’re applying for a job.

It’s also hiring managers’ favorite format worldwide, so it’s what they expect to see in your application.

Here’s an example of what the reverse-chronological resume format looks like:

#2. Pay Attention to the Layout

Now that you have the formatting out of the way, it’s time to consider your resume’s layout .

Before the hiring manager reads your resume, they’re going to look at it. And if they see a messy, unorganized document, they aren’t going to be impressed.

Follow these tips to make sure your student resume makes a good first impression:

• Keep it on one page. A good resume should never exceed one page, especially if you’re a student with limited experience. Hiring managers only want the most important details about why you’re the right person for the job.
• Set the line spacing. Make sure your text is easy to read by setting appropriate line spacing. Use 1.0 between text and 1.15 between double lines and after subheadings.
• Adjust the page margins. To make your resume look neat, set your resume’s margins to one inch on all sides of the page. Otherwise, you might end up with a stretched-out or empty-looking document.
• Choose a professional font. Another important aspect of your resume is the font. Pick something professional but not overused. Instead of Times New Roman, go for something understated like Roboto, Lora, or Ubuntu.
• Save it to the right file format. Unless the hiring manager asks for another format, your resume should always be saved as a PDF file . This way, your student resume’s layout is going to look the same across any device or software that the hiring manager uses to open it.

Use a Professional Resume Template Instead

Getting the format and layout of your resume just right can sure get tricky. 

You’ll have to spend hours tweaking the margins, adjusting font sizes, and fixing the line spacing – all the while having to make sure nothing spills over to page two. 

What if you could skip all the hassle?

Just use one of our free resume templates and create your student resume in minutes.

Each of our professional templates is designed in cooperation with HR professionals from around the world to make sure your application is ATS-friendly, easy to read, and beautiful to look at.

Not to mention, you can choose a resume template that shows off a bit of your personality while adhering to industry standards. 

Just look at how one of our templates compares to a standard text editor resume:

#3. Add Your Contact Information

Once you’re ready to fill in the contents of your student resume, it’s time to start with your contact information.

This usually goes in a designated resume header , so it’s easy for the hiring manager to find it at a glance.

Here’s what to include:

• Full Name. (E.g.: John Smith )
• Professional Title. We recommend matching the title to the job you’re targeting (E.g.: Paralegal) or specifying your education. (E.g.: Graphic Design Graduate )
• Email Address. Use a professional email address, not a quirky handle from your World of Warcraft days. (E.g.: write down [email protected] , not [email protected] )
• Phone Number. If you’re applying abroad, always include the dialing code in front of your phone number.
• Location. The city and state/country are enough information.
• Relevant Links. Any other information, such as a link to your LinkedIn profile, GitHub, or a portfolio website, is optional and depends on the job you’re applying for.

Ultimately, your contact information section is the easiest, yet most crucial, section of your student resume.

If you make a single typo in your email or phone number, the hiring manager won’t be able to reach you, and you’ll miss out on an opportunity.

So, before submitting your resume, make sure to double-check, and even triple-check that everything in this section is up-to-date and accurate.

John Smith - Graphic Design Graduate

+1 907 446 1234

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/john.smith

Fairbanks, Alaska

90744461234

[email protected]

#4. Write a Resume Headline (Summary or Objective)

Hiring managers have to look at countless resumes daily.

So, they won’t spend more than six seconds on each before deciding if it’s worth reading in detail.

This is where a snappy resume summary or objective can make a difference.

Your resume summary or objective is a brief paragraph at the start of your resume that tells hiring managers who you are and what you bring to the table, in just 2-4 sentences.

Depending on your experience, you can take one of two routes:

• Resume summary. If you've got a bit of professional experience under your belt, write a resume summary. It's your chance to give a quick snapshot of your experience, skills, and what you've accomplished so far.
• Resume objective. If you're just starting, a resume objective is the right choice for you. It outlines your skills, any relevant experiences, and your professional goals.

To paint a clearer picture, here’s what a student’s resume summary with more experience might look like:

Recent college graduate with a B.A. in English from University X seeking an entry-level job as a content writer. Previous experience includes working as an English tutor for 2 years at University X, where I worked with 100+ students, helping them improve their essays. Additionally, I managed a personal blog about tech, publishing over 40 articles in the last 3 years.

But if you’re still a student, you probably don’t have a lot of work experience to rely on for your resume summary.

Don’t worry! You can still write a fantastic resume objective, like so:

Enthusiastic recent graduate with a degree in Environmental Science, aiming to secure an entry-level position at Green Solutions Ltd. Experienced in conducting field research and using GIS software through university projects and internships. With a strong passion for sustainability and environmental advocacy, I’m looking to apply academic knowledge in a practical, impactful way.

This goes to show that even without any work experience to leverage, you can still write a job-winning resume .

#5. List Your Education First

While the work experience section is what your resume would usually start with, the rule is reversed when you’re a student or a recent graduate .

If you’re applying for a job in the same field as your education, you want to emphasize the knowledge and skills you’ve gained so far.

So, the less work experience you have, the more detailed your education section should be.

Here’s the most important information that you should include when listing your education :

• Degree Name. (E.g.: BSc in Business Administration )
• University Name. (E.g.: Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania )
• Location. (E.g.: Philadelphia, PA, USA )
• Years Attended. (E.g.: 09/2018 - 06/2022 )

You should always list your degrees in reverse chronological order, starting with your newest degree (such as a Ph.D. or MBA) and ending with your oldest.

Next, there are a ton of optional details that can look great on your student resume. These include:

• Honors and Awards. Your resume is a great place to show off a little. List any awards or acknowledgments you received during your education. (E.g.: Summa Cum Laude )
• Relevant Coursework. List a few courses that are directly related to the job you’re applying for. (E.g.: Pharmacology, Pathophysiology, Surgical Nursing )
• Thesis or Dissertation. We recommend that graduate and post-graduate students include this, especially if applying to research-heavy fields like data science .
• Minor. If you minored in another field and it’s relevant to the job, include it. (E.g.: BA in Political Science, Minor in Economics )
• Grade Point Average. Include your GPA on your resume if it’s impressive. Anything below 3.5 isn’t worth listing.

Here’s an example of what this looks like on a resume:

There’s no need to list your high school education unless it’s the only degree you have.

#6. Expand on Your Work Experience

The first thing hiring managers usually want to see is your work experience section .

It’s probably the most important section of your whole resume, and it’s where you need to wow the hiring manager. Here’s how to format it correctly:

• List jobs in reverse chronological order. Start with your latest work experience and work your way back to older roles. Just don’t go too far back – your part-time job over summer break probably doesn’t belong on your resume.
• Add your exact job title. Be accurate when describing your previous job, and avoid buzzwords . If you were a babysitter , say that instead of trying to be witty and going with ‘toddler whisperer.’
• Include the company details. All you need to add are the most important details, such as the company’s name and location. If it’s not a well-known business, you can describe what it does.
• Specify the employment period. Use the mm/yyyy format throughout your student resume instead of specifying the exact dates you started and quit.
• Mention your responsibilities and achievements. Use several bullet points, no more than 5-6 for your most recent work experience and 2-3 for older roles.

Here’s an example of what that looks like in practice:

What If My Work Experience Isn’t Relevant?

If you’re applying for a job in the field you’ve been studying for, you might have picked up a part-time job while you were a student.

So, you’re probably wondering - is that summer gig you did worth mentioning in your resume?

The answer is yes.

Even if your only work experience so far seemingly has nothing to do with the job you’re applying for, it’s probably better for you to include it.

For example, if you worked as a cashier at your local supermarket and now you’re applying for a job as an accountant , there are enough similarities between the two jobs for you to make a great resume.

Just focus on the transferable skills from your time as a cashier. Both jobs require working with numbers, being good at mathematics, and attention to detail.

Usually, showing you have some work experience is better than presenting a resume with zero work experience.

What If I Don’t Have Any Work Experience?

If you’re still a student or you just graduated, you probably don’t have any work experience to leverage.

Don’t worry - most college students don’t.

But that doesn’t have to stop you from writing a great resume!

Hiring managers know that most candidates applying for entry-level jobs aren’t super experienced, and that’s okay.

So, instead of work experience, you can focus on any of the following sections:

• Internships. If your program included any internships or hands-on experiences, mention them. Internships can be super useful on your resume, especially if they help you develop skills for the position you’re applying for, and they can look better on your resume than any part-time job in an unrelated field.
• Volunteering. Having a cause that you care about and are willing to work for shows hiring managers that you’d be a dedicated employee, and that’s why volunteer work looks great on a resume. Whether you spent some time at a local soup kitchen or just helped collect trash in the parks, you can always mention it in your application.
• Projects. Any project you’ve participated in can go here, so long as it’s relevant to the job. Your graduation thesis, coursework, or personal projects can all make a difference. For example, if you’re an aspiring animator and you make funny flash animations that you upload on YouTube for your friends, that’s always a great addition to a first-time job application .

Here’s an example of a student resume that focuses on volunteer experience and personal projects instead of work experience:

Do you want to join a cause you’re passionate about? Learn how to write a volunteer resume here.

#7. Emphasize Your Relevant Skills

The skills section of your resume should tell the hiring manager what your expertise is and why you’re the perfect candidate for the job.

There are two types of essential skills you can mention:

• Soft skills. These are a mix of social skills, characteristics, and other personal traits. For example, leadership, critical thinking, time management, and so on.
• Hard skills. These are your measurable abilities. So, anything from baking cupcakes to complex coding skills.

Your resume should aim for a mix of both soft and hard skills.

If written correctly, the skill section can look something like this:

Now, when listing skills on your resume, here are a few essential tips to keep in mind:

• List hard skills with experience levels. For each skill you list, you can mention your proficiency, from beginner to expert. This tells the hiring manager how much training you might need if they hire you.
• Keep it relevant and tailored to the job. You might have some awesome and rare skills, but they’re not always going to be useful. Your Photoshop skills won’t make a difference in an application for a job as a writer .
• Include some universal skills. Some skills can be useful anywhere. These include both soft skills (like communication ) and hard skills (like using Microsoft Office or Google Office Suite).
• Back up your skills. Instead of just listing skills as buzzwords (like “critical thinker” or “problem-solving-master”), make sure you prove what you’re saying. Give examples of when you’ve put those skills to good use, such as in your work experience section.

And for a student resume, here are a few of the top skills almost every single employer will value:

• Verbal and Written Communication
• Adaptability
• Punctuality
• Organizational skills
• Flexibility
• Conflict resolution
• Problem-solving abilities
• Time-management

#8. Leverage Optional Sections

So far, we’ve covered the essential information for your student resume.

But if you have any leftover space, there are a few other sections you can add.

Imagine this: the hiring manager has to decide between you and another candidate, but your resumes are nearly identical. You have very similar experiences, backgrounds, and credentials.

This is where some less essential resume sections can tip the scales in your favor.

Optional sections can help you backup your skills and experience and set you apart from candidates with the same professional background as yours.

These sections include:

Are you fluent in more than one language?

If you’re bilingual or even trilingual, you should always mention that in your resume!

Even if the position you’re applying for doesn’t require any specific language skills, it can still come in handy at some point.

Companies are becoming increasingly international, and you never know when you might end up working on a project or a client where you can put your knowledge to good use.

To list languages in your resume , simply write them down and include your proficiency level:

• Intermediate

Optionally, you can also use the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL) or the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) proficiency scales.

And remember - you should never lie about your language skills. You never know when the interviewer might turn out to be fluent in the language you claim to know!

As you might remember from your college application , extracurricular activities look great on a resume.

Different after-school projects and clubs can help you gain practical skills and increase your chances of landing a good job right after college. For example, if you were part of a debate team and you’re applying for a job as a lawyer , that could give your resume a boost.

Some activities, like student council responsibilities, show maturity and leadership skills that would translate well to a work environment. 

Here’s an example of how to list extracurricular activities on your resume :

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES:

Public Speaking Club

Founder and President

09/2018 - 09/2019

• Founded a club to help fellow students improve at public speaking and promote discussion-based events.
• Organized 5+ public speaking lectures.
• Brought in professors from the university and organized 2 speaking workshops.

But regardless of whether they’re related to the job or not, extracurricular activities still show the hiring manager that you’re hard-working and committed.

If you want the hiring manager to get a more well-rounded idea of you as a person, you can include hobbies and interests on your resume .

While this section isn’t going to get you hired, it could tip the scales in your favor.

When the hiring manager is looking at two near-identical resumes from two equally qualified candidates, the deciding factor might come down to something as minor as your personality and interests.

For example, imagine that the company you’re applying to values teamwork and promotes health amongst its employees. If your resume says your hobbies include team sports like basketball, that could convince the hiring manager that you’d be a good cultural fit for their team.

Certifications

The best investment is always in your future, and hiring managers love candidates who do just that.

If you have any extra qualifications or certificates , add them to your resume.

For example, if you graduated with a BA in Marketing, and you’re applying for a Digital Marketing role, that’s great. But it’s even better if the hiring manager sees that you completed an advanced SEO course and that you’re ready to roll!

Do you have a piece of paper with your name on it that says why you’re so smart and qualified? If so, add it to your resume.

It could be an award from a competition or some other recognition of your excellence - academic or otherwise.

For example, you might have been selected for a very rare scholarship , or your hard work as an illustrator won your project a nomination.

You don’t need to be modest on your resume - if you earned something cool, show it off. Any awards can back up your expertise and show the hiring manager that you’re worth a chance.

Have you worked on your university’s student paper? Maybe you’re a freelance writer or a distinguished academic .

Whatever the case is, publications are always impressive on a resume.

Include them under a designated “Publications” section and provide a URL so the hiring manager can check out your work.

#9. Include a Cover Letter

Cover letters are essential for a successful job search , and your student resume won’t be complete without one.

Forbes reports that 56% of hiring managers prefer that applicants include a cover letter with their resume.

Crafting a great cover letter tells the hiring manager that you have an eye for detail and that you’re ready to go the extra mile to join the team. You’re not just randomly sending out the same resume to every job listing you find.

So, to learn how to write your own , let's explore what makes an effective cover letter:

Here are some straightforward tips to make your cover letter great:

• Check your contact information. The information in your cover letter’s header should be the same as what’s on your resume, so double-check for any mistakes.
• Use the hiring manager’s name. A little research can help you find it, and it helps establish a more personal connection than just writing “To Whom It May Concern.”
• Start with a strong opening. Mention a couple of your best skills or achievements right at the start to grab the hiring manager’s attention.
• Go into more detail in the body. Talk about your accomplishments or skills in more detail, and mention anything you couldn’t fit on your resume, like explaining why you want to work remotely .
• Conclude by asking them to reach out. A good closing paragraph includes a call to action that asks the hiring manager to do something, like contact you or arrange an interview.
• Sing it like a professional. Choose an appropriate closing line, like “Best regards” or “I look forward to hearing from you.”

Here’s a great example of a student cover letter :

5 Student Resume Examples

Looking for more resume inspiration?

Check out the different student resume examples below to see what a job-winning resume might look like.

#1. Recent Graduate Resume

#2. Experienced Student Resume

#3. Internship Student Resume

#4. College Freshman Resume

#5. High School Student Resume

Key Takeaways

And there you go!

That’s how you create a powerful student resume from scratch.

Now, let’s quickly summarize what we’ve learned so far:

• Hiring managers go through hundreds of resumes every day, so you want yours to grab their attention immediately. Write a brief paragraph in your resume header to tell them who you are and why you’re perfect for the job.
• Unlike in most resumes, where work experience goes first, if you’re a student, your education should be at the top of your resume.
• Don’t worry if you don’t have any work experience yet - when you’re applying for an entry-level job, hiring managers don’t expect you to.
• Instead of work experience, you can focus on internships, volunteering, personal projects, or extracurricular activities to show off your skills and fill in your resume.
• Your skills could make or break your job application. Research the most in-demand skills for the job you want and list the ones you have in your resume.
• Always add a matching cover letter to your student resume to show the hiring manager you’re ready to go the extra mile for the job.

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Student resume examples & templates

Optional sections

How to write resumes for applicant tracking systems (ats), the word cloud method.

As a high school or college student, you may be a bit more focused on the homework due tomorrow than on paving the way to career success by preparing a student resume. But there’s no time like the present, and the sooner you draw up a resume, the closer you’ll be to the financial independence that employment can bring.

A little bit of freedom, a paycheck, a huge boost in confidence and real-life knowledge — these are just a few examples of what you can get from your first work experiences. Any work experience is a huge asset at this stage of your journey.  This student resume example and guide, along with our convenient resume builder tool , will help you to:

• Learn the basics of preparing a great resume
• Craft your first impressive and creative student resume (even without work experience)
• Find out about modern hiring practices (software-based and human hiring psychology)
• Arm yourself with useful sample sentences, tips and tricks to greatly increase your chances of landing an interview

Let’s dive in.

How to write a student resume: what to include, what to avoid

Here are the basic elements to include (or not) in a student resume:

• The resume summary (aka profile or personal statement)
• The employment history section
• The resume skills section
• The education section

• Order sections by importance (Summary > Education > Experience > Skills)
• Think about your potential employer and include information/experiences that are the most relevant.
• Expand your resume beyond one page. This will reduce the likelihood that the entire thing will be read.
• Expand low-priority sections to the point where the important sections get reduced.
• Languages . If you know one foreign language (especially at a basic level), this should just go on the skills section of your resume. However, if you know three or more languages, and some of them at a high level, you can move them to a separate resume section. If you have language certifications, be  sure to list them.

Including additional sections in your resume from the ones listed here will depend on how robust your resume is overall. If you feel like there’s enough info already, just include things like languages in the skills section. Include any certifications in the education. But if you’re really struggling to fill out the page, more sections may help you out.

• Extracurricular activities. The reason this one is optional is because most of your relevant activities will go into experience. You only need the extracurricular activities section if your interests and out-of-school life are so robust that they don’t fit into one section.
• Hobbies. This section should usually be avoided. It’s a last-ditch effort to fill out space on your resume. If you are desperate to add something more to your resume, mentioning you are an active jogger and bicycle rider, for example, can at least hint you are energetic and disciplined.

Don’t list hobbies or activities that have no application in work or don’t demonstrate positive qualities. The line can be blurry here but try to think objectively. Playing in a hobbyist theater troupe, for example, demonstrates you are social and open with people.

Need additional inspiration? Please view our other helpful related educative resume examples:

• Early Childhood Educator resume sample
• College Student resume sample
• High School Student resume sample
• Academic Librarian resume sample
• Health Educator resume sample
• ESL Teacher resume sample
• Tutor resume sample
• Teacher Assistant resume sample
• Substitute Teacher resume sample
• Middle School Teacher resume sample
• Elementary School Teacher resume sample
• College Professor resume sample
• Internship resume sample
• High School Teacher resume sample
• Academic Tutor resume sample
• College Admissions resume sample
• Teacher resume sample

Summary resume example: a positive portrait

If you don’t have a lot of work experience, that’s not a deal-breaker. The summary, sometimes known as a personal statement, provides a positive image, describes your qualifications and gives the reader a sense of your determination and drive. This is why it’s doubly important to craft your summary with care in a student resume. Avoid clichés and vague statements. When you’ve written out your profile section, ask yourself: If I read this resume, would I hire the person described here?

In a more practical sense, here are some examples and tips to follow when creating a resume for a student:

• The summary shouldn’t be shorter than two or longer than four mid-sized sentences.
• Use action verbs , concrete and energetic language on your resume. Instead of “High school student looking for a job” write “Self-disciplined and hard-working student looking for a workplace to contribute to a team, to learn and to grow as a professional.”
• Provide context and specific facts where possible. Instead of “Finished high school. Have a variety of hobbies.” write “Excelled in algebra and Spanish in high school. Developed social skills and openness in improv theater.”
• Insert a couple of skills and qualities that might be interesting to an employer. Knowing languages, how to use computer spreadsheets or how to organize your schedule, or always being punctual, for example, are relevant skills and qualities.

Tailor your description based on what type of job you’re applying for. If you’re looking for work in service jobs (restaurants, grocery stores, etc.) use your resume to emphasize the social part of your character. If you’re applying for a job in an office, mention how your school / project experienced helped you gain skills applicable in an office setting.

More and more employers (especially medium and large companies) are using this software to manage the hundreds of resumes they receive. So, what is an ATS system and why is it relevant for your student resume? Applicant Tracking Systems are software programs/environments that process and analyze resumes before any human manager even gets a chance to see them. 

How do Applicant Tracking Systems work and how do you adapt your resume to them? ATS operate based on keywords or phrases that hiring specialists or managers determine beforehand. These can be as simple as “high school diploma” and “time management” or as complex as terms for coding languages or medical certifications. These keywords are used to rate your resume against other applicants and to either filter them out or pass them on to human recruiters.

Wondering whether the job application you’re looking it as processed by an ATS? Small businesses may not use these programs, but some 95% of large companies and 50% of medium companies use ATS software. Consider the chances and act accordingly.

In most cases, there is no way to know the exact words the ATS will be looking for on your student resume. But there are two simple and powerful methods to get an educated guess:

• Analyzing the job listing/description
• Researching the employer’s website / social media

According to data from Youtern, just 35% of candidates are qualified for the jobs to which they apply. Eye-tracking tests and surveys show that the average time spent by a candidate reading a job description is only 50 seconds. Do NOT just skim over these listings, as this will greatly reduce your chances of creating a winning resume . The better you understand the position, the higher your chances.

If you’re struggling to evaluate what qualities are more important to an employer based on a description, there’s a way to simplify things. In case the listing is too vague or wordy, there are tools to help you visualize the patterns. Use services like worditout.com or wordclouds.com (or similar ones) to turn messy job texts into sample visual representations. Just copy-paste the text you’re having trouble with and you’ll get an image where the more frequently used terms will be larger. Use this to spot patterns and analyze what’s important.

Pay attention to the exact terminology used in the job description. People tend to describe the same skills, jobs, educational degrees and so on with different words depending on where they live, work and so on. Make sure to use the same terminology as your potential employer.

Enthusiastic and motivated university student with a strong interest in pursuing a career in customer service. A quick learner with a commitment to meaningful customer interactions. Eager to apply my commitment to customer satisfaction and effective communication in an academic environment.

Education example: the core of your resume

As a student, education is what you’ve spent the most time on prior to getting a job. Make use of this. Instead of thinking about education as a given, make it shine on your resume page. 

According to research from the U.S. National Center for Education Statistics, companies are actively hiring students. This is more common at the college level (81% of part-time undergraduate students were employed in 2018), but high school students can still get hired for simple jobs, especially in the service industry.

So, what should you include in this section? As this is a segment built on a bullet-point list (like every other resume section except the summary), the general method is this: list educational experiences as bullet points. However, there are some exceptions, like these:

• If you’re a college student: List your college and your high school (and any other learning activities) as bullet points. For each one, provide a sub-description with samples of achievements in specific subjects, school projects, scores and evaluations.
• If you’re a high school student with additional educational experience: Same as above, just excluding the college part.
• If your only educational experience is a single school: List your school as a heading and make a bullet point based on your subjects, achievements, school projects, etc.

On average, each entry-level position receives 144 applications. Each professional position gets 89 per a single listing. Some large companies may receive many thousands of resumes per week. The better the job, the higher the competition. Making your resume impress both the ATS and the hiring manager is vital.

The trick to making this section look good on your resume is to view your education as work with its own results. 

Bachelor of Communications, University of Oxford, Oxford  October 2021 - Present 

• Working towards a Communications degree.

3 A level qualifications, Winchester College, Winchester  September 2013 - July 2021  

• A grades in French, Business Studies and English Literature.

Employment history or experience section: an overlooked gem 

Many students writing their first resume don’t bother with anything except the education section. With no job experience, it seems pointless. But even if you’re young, you have lots to offer. If you do have job experience, however, you can call this the “employment history” section, otherwise, you may choose to name it the “experience” section. But if done right, this section can make you look more vibrant, active and creative.

What can you write in the experience section of a student resume? Here are some ideas:

• Summer or temp jobs. You mainly want to show the employer you’ve already been part of the workforce. You know what a job is.
• Internships. If you have these on your list, it’s one of the greatest advantages possible. Internships usually take place at more complicated jobs and are related to more advanced professions.
• Social / volunteer work . This demonstrates your ability to cooperate with other people and work towards a goal.
• Other projects (personal passions, community initiatives). Anything that didn’t land in the above categories (or the education section) goes here. Examples: Websites you ran with friends, local community events you helped with.

Make sure to use the same approach as in the education section: provide detailed descriptions of your duties, results, projects, interactions and any pertinent information. Even if it doesn’t seem that impressive to you, on your resume it shows that these were real activities and/or work experiences . 

Sales Associate at Big Apple Bookstore, Oxford  September 2022 - Present 

• Greeted customers and assisted them with finding books.
• Offered literary suggestions based on the needs and desires of the customer.
• Followed directions from my supervisor and managed projects with precision.
• Organised books and adhered to the policies and mission of the bookstore.

Editorial Internship at Sky News, West London  January 2021 - December 2021 

• Assisted Senior Editors with a variety of clerical and administrative tasks.
• Utilised my passion for journalism to pitch interesting story ideas.
• Ran spellchecks and edited stories.

Online English Literature Tutor, London  September 2020 - April 2021 

• Offered online tuition to GCSE students in English Language and English Literature.
• Helped five students to achieve top grades and secure places on AS level course.

If your lack work experience, consider adding your GPA on your resume . An impressive GPA can give hiring manager a good impression of how well you will perform. 

Choosing the correct CV format and resume template

People are visual creatures. We all like beautiful things. Anything messy or cluttered skews our objectivity, even in the professional world. A template can help you create an attractive CV or resume format and make sure the visual part of your resume works for you, not against you.

Solid CV or resume formatting is important both for the ATS and for hiring managers. Here are some golden rules to abide by:

• Use consistent fonts everywhere on your resume.
• Use the “chunking” method of CV formatting. White space between paragraphs and a variety of visual forms can keep a hiring manager reading to the end of the resume. Templates can make appropriate spacing easier.

Don’t get too creative. Strange colors and excessive decoration of your resume will make it look unprofessional. When in doubt, choose a more reserved template, like these simple options from Resume.io. These types of templates work great for a variety of entry-level positions.

Pay attention to visual design. If you’re an enthusiastic designer or are studying to become one, resume formatting might be a task you’d like to attempt yourself. But if not, there’s a huge number of professionally designed, beautiful and research-tested resume templates out there (for example on this very website). All you need is to fill them in with your info. A great template = no hassle.

21% of U.S. resumes don’t pass the ATS filter due to buggy formatting, or get ignored by recruiters due to confusing charts, layouts, or images. To avoid this, use professionally designed templates.

Skills section example: your best tools and qualities

This is the resume section that most depends on the job for which you’re applying. Different companies look for different skills in their employees. You are sure to have some great skills . Just choose them well. There are two main things you need to know for this section of the student resume:

• What is a master list and how to use one
• The difference between hard and soft skills and where each is best

The master list method entails brainstorming every possible skill you think you might have naturally or have picked up in school, projects or temp jobs. Write them all down, even if they seem unlikely or you are unsure that they fit. Keep this list in a separate document. You’ll return to it every time you’re writing a new resume. It’ll get richer and bigger the more experience you get. Once you have a master list, the idea is to cherry-pick the best skills that are appropriate for a specific job and add them to that particular resume. And here’s where we get to the hard/soft skills . 

Hard skills relate to specific tasks, concrete knowledge, physical objects, sciences or tools. Knowing how to use Excel spreadsheets or Microsoft Word are hard skills . Knowing a programming language or a foreign language are hard skills. Soft skills have to do with social interactions, self-organization, intellectual and emotional qualities and so on. Time management and scheduling is a soft skill, as is team collaboration. Most entry-level positions (for example in service jobs) tend to favor soft skills. 

• Customer Satisfaction
• Microsoft Office
• Motivated Attitude
• Social Media Management

Key takeaways

• Getting a good job, even without past experience, is an attainable goal. Just make sure to tailor your student resume to a specific position and employer.
• CV formats and resume layouts are extremely important to pass the ATS and impress the hiring manager. Resume templates can make this step easier.
• Education is the core of a resume for a student. Make it detailed, and list results and numbers if you can.
• The summary is your free-form professional profile on your resume. Be a little creative here, but also describe your best work-related qualities, experience and achievements here.
• Use professional resume-building tools and templates to avoid hidden pitfalls in resume formatting. It makes your life much easier.

And if you want the perfect tool to save time and get a great job, use the resume.io builder tool with professionally made and recruiter-tested templates !

Beautiful ready-to-use resume templates

10 Student Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

Student Resume Templates and Examples (Download in App)

Most popular student resumes.

• Student Athlete
• Computer Science Student
• Legal Student
• Student Teaching
• College Student
• Nursing Student
• Resume Text Examples

How To Write a Student Resume

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

Student Athlete Resume Example

Computer Science Student Resume Example

Legal Student Resume Example

Student Teaching Resume Example

Internship Resume Example

College Student Resume Example

Nursing Student Resume Example

Student Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples

Allison Rosenberg (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Seattle, WA 12345

A recent graduate with a bachelor’s degree in marketing, specializing in social media, communication, content writing, and brand messaging. Adept at developing and implementing engaging content to grow brand awareness and expand social media presence.

• Social media marketing
• Copywriting
• Brand marketing
• Communication

Professional Experience

Marketing Intern, Roque & Harmen Legal Associates, Seattle, WA February 2023 – June 2023

• Provided support to the marketing team for all digital initiatives, including copy for social media posts, blog content, and strategy development
• Contributed to a 150% increase in click rates and a 100% increase in followership on LinkedIn over a three-month period
• Attended meetings with the marketing department to discuss social media strategy

Student Social Media Coordinator, Seattle Central College, Seattle, WA January 2022 – May 2023

• Coordinated with a team of three students and a faculty advisor to schedule and write posts for university social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn
• Created engaging social media posts to raise awareness of university events, groups, programs, and announcements, resulting in a 60% increase in followership

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Marketing Seattle Central College , Seattle, WA September 2019 – June 2023

Certifications

• Social Media Marketing Certification, Hootsuite Academy, 2023

Amar Singh (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio New York, NY 12345

A recent graduate with a bachelor’s degree in economics, specializing in finance, financial modeling, accounting principles, and risk assessment. Adept at forecasting long-term business outlooks and identifying financial risks.

• Financial analysis
• Statutory Accounting Principles (SAP)
• Financial modeling
• Microsoft Excel
• Forecasting

Financial Analyst Internship, Cadence Investment Firm, New York, NY January 2022 – June 2023

• Supported financial analysts in conducting reporting, evaluating business financials, and identifying risk factors for investors
• Coordinated with the finance team to create presentations on business intelligence reports and due diligence on businesses to determine investment viability

Academic Projects

Financial Analyst Projects, University of Syracuse, New York, NY September 2022 – June 2023

• Developed financial documentation for a three-month simulation of a startup e-commerce business, which included translating hypothetical business events into financial reporting
• Created 12 pages of journal entries and financial statements using MS Excel, including reconciliations and month-end close

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Economics University of Syracuse, Syracuse, NY September 2019 – June 2023

Anthony Gentile (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Miami, FL 12345

A recent graduate with a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, specializing in Python, JavaScript, application development, and software development. Adept at creating scalable code to build high-quality software applications to support users and businesses.

• Software engineering
• Software development
• Application development

Software Engineering Intern, StarTech Software Solutions Inc., Miami, FL January 2023 – June 2023

• Performed testing and supported the development of features for mobile applications in React and Android environments under the supervision of software engineers
• Attended meetings with the project team to expand knowledge of application development, discuss potential new features, and evaluate user needs

Software Engineering Projects, Miami Dade College, Miami, FL May 2021 – June 2023

• Designed and developed a mobile application to aid users in scheduling and monitoring appointments with real-time alerts, which included testing functionality, identifying bug fixes, and programming using Python
• Developed a fantasy football application using JavaScript to enable users to analyze and compare player statistics in real time to determine scoring percentages and trade value

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Software Engineering Miami Dade College, Miami, FL September 2019 – June 2023

• CompTIA A+ Certification, 2023

Mina Sayed (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Philadelphia, PA 12345

A dynamic student athlete with a proven track record of success in high school football and basketball. A capable team captain with a history of providing vital contributions to championship teams. Adept at mentoring and supporting junior teammates.

Team Captain, North Philadelphia High, Philadelphia, PA November 2021 – December 2024

• Serve as a team captain for the varsity football team from 2021 to 2024, providing mentorship and support to junior athletes and driving team morale
• Generated 800 running yards, 437 receiving yards, and 14 touchdowns during the 2023 season, achieving recognition as an All-American Football Player

Team Captain, North Philadelphia High, Philadelphia, PA November 2020 – March 2021

• Served as a team captain for the junior basketball team during the 2021 season
• Provided valuable contributions as a power forward and achieved averages of seven assists per game, 13 points per game, and two offensive rebounds per game
• Team leadership

High School Diploma North Philadelphia High, Philadelphia, PA | 2024

Meera Patel (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio San Diego, CA 12345

A computer science student with entry-level experience specializing in software engineering, machine learning, and Python. Adept at writing elegant, scalable code to support the development of innovative software solutions.

Computer Science Intern , Starlight Technologies, San Diego, CA | January 2024 – June 2024

• Collaborated with software engineering and product development teams to develop product features for artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technology for the automotive industry
• Conducted complex coding in Python and utilized knowledge of deep learning to support projects
• Utilized knowledge of Big Data to create complex data models and identify statistical patterns

Computer Science Projects , University of San Diego, San Diego, CA | June 2022 – June 2024

• Coordinated with a team of students to develop facial recognition software, which included implementing features and writing scalable Python code
• Executed a machine learning project to predict potential stock prices for biotechnology companies based on data from the pandemic
• Computer science
• Machine learning

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Computer Science University of San Diego, San Diego, CA | 2024

Anthony Gentile (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Detroit, MI 12345

A recent graduate with a Juris Doctor degree , specializing in legal research, litigation, communication, and regulatory compliance. A strong history of providing support to lead attorneys during complex cases to drive favorable rulings.

Legal Intern , Coulthart Law Firm, Detroit, MI January 2024 – June 2024

• Performed comprehensive legal research on various topics, application of laws, rulings, and regulations, contributing to successful outcomes in three cases
• Drafted and reviewed legal documents such as briefs, pleadings, and memoranda
• Supported case preparation by gathering and analyzing evidence, preparing case briefs, and contributing to the development of legal strategies

Legal Intern , Henderson Legal Associates, Detroit, MI August 2023 – December 2023

• Conducted legal research and provided support to attorneys in understanding and interpreting relevant laws and regulations
• Participated in the drafting of briefs, pleadings, and contracts under the supervision of senior attorneys and attended court proceedings
• Legal research
• Legal writing
• Regulatory compliance
• Juris Doctor (J.D.) , University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI | June 2024
• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Philosophy , University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI | June 2020

Skyler Thompson (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Nashville, TN 12345

A student teacher with entry-level experience, specializing in differentiated instruction, holistic learning, and classroom management. Adept at fostering inclusive learning environments and utilizing cutting-edge learning modalities to drive student engagement and growth.

Student Teacher , Middle Town Elementary, Nashville, TN January 2024 – June 2024

• Utilized differentiated and experiential instruction techniques to foster engagement across three fourth-grade classrooms, contributing to a 12% increase in grade point averages for reading
• Managed a diverse classroom of 25 students, effectively maintaining discipline and creating a positive learning environment that promoted inclusivity
• Attended regular meetings with parents and students to discuss academic progress

Teaching Assistant , Middle Town Elementary, Nashville, TN January 2023 – December 2023

• Provided classroom management support to two fourth-grade teachers, graded assignments, and assisted with the planning and implementation of learning activities
• Resolved student conflicts and provided support and guidance to aid emotional, social, and academic growth
• Differentiated instruction
• Classroom management
• Lesson planning
• Curriculum development

Bachelor of Education (B.E.) University of Tennessee, Nashville, TN | June 2024

Skyler Thompson  (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Minneapolis, MN 12345

Writing and editing professional with strong recent academic and work experience. Currently completing Bachelor’s Degree in English and Creative Writing from the University of Minnesota. Bilingual: Fluent in English and Spanish.

• Customer service and relations
• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Office administration
• Research and fact-checking
• Team collaboration
• Writing, editing and proofreading

Candidate: Bachelor of Arts (BA) – English, Creative Writing, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis | expected May 2023 Relevant coursework includes:

• Children’s fiction
• Fiction workshopping
• Poetry and drama
• Prose and nonfiction
• Short story writing

Honors and activities

Winner, University of Minnesota Campus Award for Long-Form Fiction | 2022 Runner-up, University of Minnesota Campus Award for Excellence in Poetry | 2021 Staff Writer, UMinn News [biweekly college newspaper] | 2021 to present

• Provide copy for various sections, including arts, athletics, and opinion
• Work with photo editors to determine placement with accompanying text

Work Experience

Receptionist, Regional Floral Magazine, Minneapolis, MN December 2020 to August 2022

• Managed magazine’s main email account, responding to feedback and providing subscription information as needed
• Answered and forwarded calls to the appropriate department
• Maintained and updated subscription rolls
• Organized meetings and verified sources for reporters

Pizza Delivery Driver, Little Caesars, Minneapolis, MN June 2019 to May 2020

• Member of a high-performing 10-person team
• Praised by manager for working with other drivers and team members to ensure the utmost efficiency and accuracy
• Gained and demonstrated strong organizational skills combining food deliveries based on customer location

Fluency in Spanish | Proficiency in Italian

Rob Smith  (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Columbus, OH 12345

Efficient and hardworking student with a strong interest in computer science. Draw on technical knowledge base covering UX design, JAVA, MySQL, and HTML. Demonstrated success objectively measuring software performance while participating in a rapid development cycle.

Key Skills 

• Efficiency improvement
• Group collaboration
• Independent research
• Technical troubleshooting
• User experience (UX)

Graduate, AAE High School, Columbus, OH | August 2018 to June 2022 3.7 GPA | Top 10% of graduating class

Tech Support, XYZ Company, Columbus, OH June 2020 to present

• Quickly and professionally respond to various tech support tickets
• Install hardware and software as needed to maintain systems
• Work with managers to develop rapid response systems to major tech threats
• Co-design and deliver educational materials to staff on proper tech use

Retail Sales Associate, Smith Clothing Company, Columbus, OH August 2019 to May 2020

• Gained strong foundation in positive customer relations
• Operated cash register and balanced the till at end of day (EOD)
• Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) A+
• Nielsen Norman Group UX and UX Master

Yaling Zhang (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio 123 Bridge Street, Boston, MA 12345

A Nursing Student with entry-level experience providing direct patient care as a certified nursing assistant and nurse extern. Achieved recognition from physicians and RNs during clinical evaluations for delivering patient-centered care and communicating with empathy and compassion.

Nursing Extern, Ardmore Hospital, Boston, MA May 2023 – July 2023

• Provided direct care to an average of five patients per shift under the supervision of the charge nurse and clinical preceptor
• Administered medications using the oral, topical, and subcutaneous routes
• Performed patient assessments and coordinated with registered nurses to develop comprehensive care plans based on symptoms and individual needs
• Monitored patients following surgical procedures, provided wound care, changed dressings, and updated the nurse manager on changes in patient condition

Certified Nursing Assistant, Kindred Medical Center, Boston, MA October 2021 – May 2023

• Deliver patient care under the supervision of RNs and LPNs, assist patients with ADLs, and collaborate with nursing teams to enhance the patient experience, resulting in a 15% increase in patient satisfaction scores
• Measure and record patient vital signs in electronic medical record system and provide updates to resident nurses on changes in patient medical status and symptoms
• Registered Nurse, State of Massachusetts, License #123456
• Certified Nursing Assistant, State of Massachusetts, License #123456
• Basic Life Support Certifications, American Heart Association, 2023
• Patient-Centered Care
• Clinical Operations

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Nursing Boston College, Boston, MA September 2019 – May 2023

Creating a strong, professional resume as a student or recent graduate can be challenging. Without hands-on work experience, it can be difficult to grab the attention of prospective employers and internships. Despite these obstacles, there are many strategies to create an impactful resume that highlights the strongest aspects of your education. Throughout this guide, we’ll provide expert tips to help market your skill set effectively as you pursue internships and entry-level jobs.

1. Create a profile by summarizing your student qualifications

As a student without years of hands-on work experience, you’ll need to create an impactful opening summary to grab the attention of prospective employers. Start by mentioning you’re a recent graduate in a specific field, and then provide three to four industry-specific skills in your opening sentence. Incorporate key terms that match the job posting, as this will show hiring managers you have their desired skill set, even if you lack industry experience.

Professional Profile - Example #1

Professional profile - example #2, 2. outline your experience in a compelling list.

If you’ve completed internships or held an entry-level position in your field, feature this information prominently in your professional experience section. Focus on your positive contributions to the organization and your cultivated industry knowledge. Suppose your work experience isn’t relevant to your field. In that case, still include it on your resume, as these jobs can still help to demonstrate your ability to interface effectively with diverse teams and customers.

Professional Experience - Example #1

Professional experience - example #2, 3. make a list of your key skills and proficiencies as a student.

In addition to your education, consider completing certifications to bolster your job applications. This information will also show employers that you’re furthering your knowledge of the field even without hands-on work experience. For example, if you’re a computer science student, completing a bootcamp course or obtaining a CompTIA certification will show prospective employers you have a strong understanding of the basics.

• [Degree Name]
• [School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] [Dates Enrolled]
• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Software Engineering
• Miami Dade College, Miami, FL September 2019 – June 2023
• [Certification Name], [Awarding Organization], [Completion Year]

4. Make a list of your student-related skills and proficiencies

Most organizations utilize Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to identify qualified candidates for job openings. If your resume lacks a certain number of key skills, you may be rejected before your document reaches the hiring manager. To mitigate this risk, incorporate key terms directly from the job description into your profile, professional experience, and skills sections. Below, you’ll find a list of common keywords across a wide range of industries:

5. Highlight volunteerism or extracurricular activities

Consider highlighting volunteer experience and extracurricular activities on your resume as a student, especially if you struggle to reach the one-page mark. Although much of this experience won’t be explicitly relevant to your target industry, it can help prospective employers better understand who you are as a candidate.

How To Pick the Best Student Resume Template

If you struggle to find the right template, you’re not alone. With such a variety of options, selecting the suitable template for your needs can be challenging. Find a well-organized template with a visual appeal that doesn’t distract the reader from your content. Ultimately, your qualifications, academic projects, and education will always determine whether the hiring manager decides to bring you in for an interview.

Frequently Asked Questions: Student Resume Examples and Advice

What are common action verbs for student resumes -.

You may run out of action verbs during the resume-building process, especially as a student. Often a limited number of verbs can describe your academic projects, internships, and work experience. Differentiating your usage of action verbs will keep your bullet points fresh and compelling. We’ve compiled a list of verbs you can use to build out your resume:

How do you align your resume with a job description? -

Aligning your resume with the job description is essential for generating interviews on the open market as a student or recent graduate. You’ll likely encounter strong competition, even for entry-level positions. As you craft your document, carefully analyze each job posting before submitting your application and incorporate skill sets and qualifications that match that organization’s needs.

For example, if a company is looking for a software developer with a firm grasp of application development, you’d highlight academic or independent projects demonstrating this knowledge. If you’re applying for an entry-level financial analyst role centered around business intelligence, you may want to showcase your knowledge of financial modeling. If you can’t display an internship or project, emphasize skills and coursework that match the role you’re applying for.

What is the best student resume format? -

Although a functional resume approach may seem appealing for a student with limited experience, still avoid crafting a resume that only highlights your skills. Providing details for your academic projects and even work experience outside of your target field is still important for differentiating yourself from the applicant field. Use a combination approach that features your most relevant skill sets and coursework while providing hiring managers with enough information to assess who you are as a candidate.

Including a matching cover letter can help bolster your application as a student or recent graduate. Instead of industry experience, this shows prospective employers who you are and why you’re interested in joining their team. Be sure to mention specifics about the organization’s mission statement, reputation, or culture and why this draws you to apply for the position. For more information, visit our student cover letter guide .

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Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

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In many cases, students are anxious about creating resumes. You might worry you don’t have the same level of experience as others and wonder what the format should look like based on that. The good news is that a great student resume can help you land the position you want. No matter your level of experience, you can craft a stellar resume that appeals to hiring managers and recruiters.

Sure, experience matters when it comes to landing a job. However, it isn’t the only thing that employers are looking for. Everything from your skills and education to your personality and accomplishments can all make a huge impact on a hiring manager. When you make a great student resume, there’s no reason you can’t get the job of your dreams.

Whether you’re a high school or college student, you may have limited experience creating resumes. But if you want to move into the working world, now is a good time to gain those skills. The sooner you learn to make great resumes, the quicker you can enjoy employment at a position of your choice.

Don’t worry, because you don’t have to figure out the ins and outs of the process all on your own. We’ll share the basics of creating a student resume, how to make it impress recruiters, and the best way to craft resume sections to show off what you’re capable of. You can use our examples and tips to build a resume you’re proud to share.

Student resume writing guide: Where to start?

Taking a quick look at student resume examples is a good way to get yourself ready to make your own document. Later on in this guide, we’ll share one that you can use as a guide for yourself. For now, we want to talk about the two major steps involved in creating a student resume. You start with making a master resume and then segue into penning one for a specific job.

Master resume for Student

The first document you want to make is a master resume. This is not the same as the resume you turn in with your applications. It’s a simple document that you keep for yourself. This is where you compile information about your experience, courses, training, certifications, and other information so you can easily access it in the future.

Instead of jotting down only the most relevant information, this is a place to include everything that could be useful in the future. It doesn’t matter if it might be outdated or seem irrelevant right now. Take it down so you have it if you need it at some point. The document is a log of your academic and work history that you can peruse whenever you need these details.

Keep in mind that as you continue to work, it will start to be more challenging to remember all the projects and tasks you did in the past. Having a master resume, whether it’s on your computer or in a notebook, keeps all that information saved for you in case you need it. Just remember to update it with new jobs, tasks, achievements, and skills on occasion so it stays current and you don’t forget anything.

Your master resume is a never-ending document. Keep a record at work of all the things you do from daily tasks, projects, and more, even if they are not part of your job description in your master resume. This will help you in vacancy-specific resume writing in the future.

Job-specific resume for Student

The second stage of creating a resume is all about the job-specific resume. This is going to be similar to any sample student resume that you see when you do a Google search. This is a resume designed specifically for a certain position you want. It contains only relevant information that relates to the role.

One of the most important aspects of this process is researching the company and position that you want. This is done to see what skills and keywords are best to include in your student resume. You can then use them throughout the resume to show you’re a good choice for the position.

Of course, making a master resume and then a job-specific resume can take time. However, you’re going to have an easier time gaining employment with a tailored resume. In addition, this isn’t an overly long document. Most students have resumes of only one page, although you can go up to two pages if needed.

If you run into problems writing your resume, take some time to do a bit of research on the company culture, such as the work environment, values, and clients. Incorporating these things into your resume or cover letter can give you an edge over the competition. Research now is also useful since you can use that information in an interview down the line.

Student resume example

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Here’s a great addition to the resume examples for students that you look at while making your own document. You can easily see what the applicant has done in the past and which skills they are bringing to the table. They add extra information about their education since they’re currently still in university. An extra section is included for languages since it is relevant to the position.

What to include in a Student resume? Writing tips and examples

Every student resume sample you look at will have some sections in common with others. That’s because these are expected by hiring managers. However, there are also sections that you can choose to add or omit depending on the specifics of your situation. Below is some guidance on how to put together some of the mandatory sections so you can be sure your resume is noticed.

How to write a resume objective on a Student resume

Besides the contact information, which includes your email address and phone number, the resume objective might be the most crucial part of your student resume. It’s where you share your largest accomplishments, top skills, and what you’d like to do in the future. At the same time, every student resume objective is going to be unique.

The resume objective is a very short paragraph that sits at the top of your resume. It can be anywhere from one to four sentences long, but it’s best not to go longer than that. It’s meant to be very brief and to the point, so be as concise as you can. Incorporating numbers and action verbs can help you with the process.

You can use our example resume objective to get an idea of what yours might sound like when you’re done:

“Knowledgeable and driven computer science student with experience coding and testing features, creating software applications, and providing engineering support. Oracle Certified Professional with knowledge of multiple programming languages and software development tools, excellent problem-solving skills, and ability to perform well as a team.”

Don’t have much experience? Focus on your education and skills. If you do have experience in another industry, talk about that. The point is to present yourself in the best light in terms of getting the position you want.

Tips for listing education on a Student resume

A strong focus on educational courses, accomplishments, and related items is recommended when creating a student resume. If you have limited experience, place the education on top of your experience. Those with experience can choose to place experience on top instead.

While most resumes have a short blurb for the education section, a student resume can go into much more detail. Make sure you include where you are going to school, what you’re studying, and when you graduated (if you already have). You can also include details about your GPA, clubs you’re in, courses you’ve taken, and other details.

If you’re looking for an internship or will be graduating soon, you can focus on projects and courses that are relevant.

You want to compile as much information here as you can, especially if you have limited work experience. Make sure it’s relevant, but don’t be afraid to add detail to this section. Since the work experience section is usually the longest, you want to add to education so your resume takes up a full page at minimum.

How to include work experience on a Student resume

The main purpose of the work experience section is to share any relevant positions you have held, including what you’ve accomplished or learned, how you’ve applied knowledge, and what your duties were. Experience should revolve around only things relevant to the role you are interested in. You can also include other things if there are transferable skills.

We know not everyone has work experience or may have very little of it, which means you may need a different tactic than someone who has decades of work in the past. Those who have internships or volunteer experience can use that in this section. Add in details about what you did and learned from the experience.

If you have no experience to speak of, a skill-based resume can be the better choice. For this type of resume, you focus on your abilities. You might have a small list of skills and include additional information under each of them to show an employer what you can do and how it is relevant to the position you desire.

People who have no formal education but have other experiences should include those, as well. For instance, job shadowing and internships can give you experience that you can use on the job. Talk about the skills you gained to show you’d be a good addition to the workplace.

The same applies to things like apprenticeships, freelancing, self-employment, and other types of work. The important thing is to show that what you did is relevant and had a positive impact on your skills. Include the same kind of information for these entries, such as the position, client, or company, and dates.

With our guide and examples, you’re well on your way to crafting a student resume that draws the eye. The only thing left is selecting a design that shows off your skills and accomplishments. CVMaker offers several templates that you can use to perfect your resume before you send it off. Select your favorite and move forward with confidence.

Key takeaways

Creating a resume for students with no experience (or little experience) doesn’t have to be a huge challenge. Use the tips and examples above to build a resume that is perfect for the position you want. Don’t forget that tailoring the document is a must to make a great impression. By using our advice, you’ll soon have a student resume to pair with your cover letter for your next application.

Resume tips for Student:

·       Look over the resume for any typos and misspellings, especially in the contact information section. Be sure the email address and phone number are accurate.

·       Use simple language, but stay professional as you craft your student resume. Stay away from jargon and slang as much as possible.

·       Consider using a service like Grammarly to make sure your writing is perfect before you decide your resume is ready to send off to an employer.

·       Be careful about how many fonts and colors you use as you don’t want to make the document overwhelming. Two fonts and two colors are considered best.

·       For students with no experience, internships and entry-level positions are good options for starting your move into the working world.

·       Make sure you read over the resume one last time to check on the flow. Handle any final changes before you apply for the job you want.

Next steps?

Do you need some help improving your writing and making sure your resume makes sense from top to bottom? You can visit our CVMaker website to access professional Resume Writing Services . Reach out to us to get advice and help from an expert who has created tons of resumes in the past.

How should I format my student resume?

The best resume format for students is going to vary based on other aspects of the document. As long as you have a good structure and an appropriate layout, you can format as you like but make sure to keep things professional. Resumes can be formatted in a plethora of ways so you can be creative with the process.

When it comes to format, it applies to the font face, size, and color you choose, as well as what hues you use to highlight important sections. However, it also goes far beyond that. For instance, the spacing choice you make between sections is also part of formatting. No matter what choices you make, be sure the resume doesn’t span more than two pages at most.

Which layout is ideal for a college student resume?

In addition to the student resume format you choose, you also want to consider the layout. This is how you place things on the page and should largely be done by putting the most relevant and important sections toward the top of the page. For instance, most people place the contact information at the top middle or top side of the page.

Beyond that, most resumes will include a resume objective near the top of the page. From there, you can insert your education and experience in whatever order seems best. Skills are typically under those along with any extra sections, like languages or references, that you choose to include.

Which writing style is best for a student resume?

As you craft a student resume, make sure you are very clear throughout the document. Decide on a structure and stick with it so it’s easy to read the entire thing and understand what you want to say. Adding action verbs is useful to be persuasive and have a better chance of being brought in for an interview.

In addition, make sure you use keywords from the job position and the company website. Keep in mind that a resume is meant to be a formal document so you should do what you can to stick to that. This applies even to companies who might have a less formal feel on social media and their website.

How long should a student resume be?

On average, any resume should be between one and two pages long. There are exceptions, but for a student resume, going over two pages is likely going too long. Most students with little to no work experience will want to go with a single-page resume. It will have plenty of information and be easier to read for a hiring manager.

If you happen to have additional experience or more information in other sections, you can choose to go up to two pages. At the same time, going shorter is recommended if possible. A resume is meant to be concise and has only the most important information. Everything else can come out during the interview.

What structure should be used for a student resume?

In most cases, the first thing you’ll add to a student resume is your contact information. At that point, you can move to the resume objective. Under that are the core sections like education and work experience. As you write these sections, use complete sentences and incorporate action verbs or adjectives to make the document persuasive.

The following items are included in most student resumes:

·       Contact information

·       Resume objective

·       Education

·       Work experience

·       Skills

There are also several sections you can add on as needed, including:

·       Other types of experience

·       Accomplishments

·       References

·       Certifications and courses

·       Technical proficiencies

·       Interests and hobbies

·       Languages

How are student resumes different from other resumes?

Most of the time, someone making a student resume has less experience than someone who has been working for several years. While this is a disadvantage, employers realize that students are not likely to have the same skills as someone who has been in the workforce for a long period.

Based on this, a student resume needs to go beyond simply highlighting work experience. Instead, you want to weave in positive attributes and share the skills and abilities that you do have. Some student resumes will focus more on skills and education than experience.

What steps are there to write a student resume?

There are two phases to writing any resume, including one for a student. The first is to create a master resume that holds all of your professional information. This can be used to build a job-specific resume that is customized for a certain position. The first is solely for the applicant while the second is shared with a potential employer.

As you build your job-specific resume, you want to incorporate keywords and add relevant information. Choosing a structure and layout is also part of the process. Then, you want to proofread the resume before you send it in and wait for an interview.

What makes a student resume stand out?

There are lots of things you can do to make sure your student resume stands out. The first is to make sure it is written professionally and include keywords that come from the job description. You want it to be easy to read and give a good impression of who you are and what you can do.

You also want to make sure the resume looks nice visually. For that, you can design on your own or use a template, the latter of which will take less time. Beyond that, you can highlight certain sections and information to draw attention to the things you most want a recruiter to notice.

Now that you have the tips you need for a great resume, a template is perfect for bringing it all together. CVMaker offers a wide variety of templates that you can customize to make them your own. Choose the one you like most, add your information, and make use of a gorgeous student resume to attach to your application.

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Student Resume Examples & Writing Guide for 2024

Diving headfirst into job search when you have little to none practical experience can be petrifying. But don't worry! Our guide is here to simplify the daunting task of writing your student resume .

Let us lead you through the process step by step with our practical tips , sleek resume templates , and  detailed examples .

Keep reading to learn all about:

• Delving into valuable student resume examples
• Choosing the right format for your student resume
• Writing a resume summary that expresses your best skills
• Including relevant hard & soft skills in your student resume
• Describing extracurricular & volunteer experience in your work history
• Using powerful action words throughout your student resume
• Listing your academic credentials & awards properly
• Including valuable extra sections in your resume
• Avoding common mistakes in a student resume
• Pairing your resume with a relevant student cover letter
• Understanding the labor market trends for recent college graduates
• Accessing top resources for job-seeking students

Still looking for a job? These 100+ resources will tell you everything you need to get hired fast.

University student resume example

Why does this resume example work?

• Detailed work experience with recognition: The work experience section effectively describes the candidate's role and contributions as a Software Intern at Intel Corporation. The inclusion of specific tasks such as developing software applications, coding, and testing features provides a clear picture of the candidate’s hands-on experience. Additionally, receiving recognition as Employee of the Month highlights exceptional performance and dedication, making the candidate stand out.
• Strong academic background: The education section showcases the candidate’s academic excellence, particularly highlighting a GPA of 3.96 in Computer Science at the University of Waterloo. This strong academic record, combined with participation in relevant clubs and societies, demonstrates the candidate’s commitment and well-rounded skills in their field.

What could be improved?

• Lack of quantifiable data in achievements: While the resume provides a good overview of the candidate’s responsibilities and recognitions, it lacks specific quantifiable achievements that could strengthen the impact. For example, in the work experience section, instead of just stating "enhancing Intel's website functionality," the candidate could provide data such as "enhanced Intel's website functionality, resulting in a 15% increase in user engagement and a 10% reduction in load times."

Business student resume sample

• Leadership and initiative: The resume effectively highlights the candidate’s leadership skills and initiative, particularly in the education section where the candidate served as President of the Adam Smith Business Club. The mention of developing and implementing a new growth strategy that resulted in a significant increase in membership from 120 to 350 within one academic year showcases their capability to drive growth and manage teams effectively.
• Strong academic and extracurricular accomplishments: The applicant's perfect GPA of 4.0/4.0, coupled with the Best Graduate Award, reflects strong academic performance. Additionally, leadership roles in various student organizations, such as Vice President of the Debate Club and Social Media Manager for the Swimming Club, indicate a well-rounded profile with a balance of academic and extracurricular achievements.
• Lack of specificity: The resume lacks specificity in some areas, particularly in the statement "Managed a team of seven individuals." While this indicates leadership, it does not provide enough context about what the team was responsible for or what specific achievements were accomplished under the applicant's leadership. 

IT intern resume example

• Presence of interpersonal skills: The resume effectively highlights the candidate's soft skills, such as communication , team playing , and time management . These skills are crucial in collaborative environments and set the candidate apart as someone who can work well with others and manage their time efficiently. This is particularly important in IT roles where teamwork and communication are essential for project success and troubleshooting.
• Recognition and awards: The candidate’s achievements are well-documented, including being recognized as Intern of the Month at Saratech Corporation for exceptional performance. Additionally, the Best Graduate Award from high school and maintaining a high GPA at Princeton University with a placement in the top 10% of the program demonstrate the candidate’s dedication and excellence in their academic and professional pursuits.
• General descriptions without context: While the resume lists various responsibilities, it often lacks context that would make the candidate's contributions clearer. For instance, "Contributed to the development of new web pages" could be enhanced by specifying the scope and impact of these contributions. A more detailed explanation such as, "Successfully developed and implemented three new web pages, which increased site traffic by 15% over the summer internship period," would provide a clearer picture of the candidate’s impact and the value they brought to their employer.

1. Choose the best format for your student resume

No matter if you're a high school, college, or higher education student, the first crucial step to writing your student resume is to choose the best format for your needs.

Generally, applicants who are current students will have limited formal work experience, but an extensive academic background. Along with coursework, this may include extracurriculars, student assistantships, internships, and volunteer work.

The best format for this type of experience is the functional resume . Functional resumes do not focus on work experience as a standard reverse-chronological resume would. Instead, this format focuses much more heavily on education, skills, and unpaid experience .

Of course, if you do have some work experience, you may want to opt for the more traditional reverse-chronological resume or a hybrid resume format. Reverse-chronological resumes focus on your most recent job first and work backward from there, making the work experience section the largest on the document. Hybrid resumes, by contrast, spread the focus out more evenly between all sections.

Choose your preferred template and make your resume shine.

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2. write a resume summary that expresses your best skills.

Your resume summary is a short statement that summarizes your best attributes as a professional or as a student . This can include your credentials, accomplishments, or goals, but should always focus primarily on providing compelling details to catch the attention of the reader.

To help illustrate how to write a strong resume summary, here are two contrasting examples:

Bad student resume summary example

Current high school student who is looking for part-time employment in the automobile and mechanic industry. Has taken multiple shop classes working directly with automobiles and can provide a recommendation from the teacher. Strong and hard-working football player.

Why is this bad?  Firstly, it lacks clarity and focus, jumping between unrelated points like shop classes and football. It doesn't highlight any specific skills or accomplishments that are directly relevant to the job in the automobile and mechanic industry. Additionally, mentioning "strong and hard-working football player" seems out of place and unprofessional, as it doesn't tie into the job target. Finally, it fails to convey enthusiasm or a clear objective, making it less compelling to potential employers.

Good student resume summary example

Hard-Working High School Student with a strong interest in beginning a career as a mechanic. 2+ years of experience working with automobiles in a supervised classroom setting, with a letter of recommendation from supervising teacher available upon request. Team-player with strong leadership and collaboration skills.

Why is this a good example?  In this corrected example, the student includes a lot of the same information but with greater context and specific facts to back up their claims. The sentences have a better overall flow that gives the person reading the summary a clear oversight of who this student is and what their goals are.

Crafting a powerful resume summary is essential to making a great first impression. By focusing on relevant skills, providing specific examples, and maintaining clarity, you can create a summary that captures the attention of potential employers and effectively communicates your qualifications and aspirations.

3. Include relevant hard & soft skills in your student resume

As a student, you have probably heard your teachers or professors say you need to hone your skills — but did you know there are two distinct types of skills you can have?

These two types of skills are known as hard skills and soft skills .

Hard skills refer to your technical and learned abilities, such as athletics or computer skills. These abilities take time and commitment to obtain, making them key qualifications for specific jobs.

Soft skills , comparatively, refer to your interpersonal and intellectual abilities that allow you to collaborate with others and understand the world around you. These can be both inherent and learned, and include things such as people skills and communication.

Including both types of skills on your resume shows the person reading it that you understand the importance of having both kinds. With this in mind, here are 10 ideas for both hard and soft skills that are great for a student’s resume:

The best student hard skills to put on your resume

• Athletic ability (strength, stamina, specific sports, etc.)
• Computer skills (typing, web browsing, researching, etc.)
• Computer software (Microsoft Office 365, Adobe Creative Cloud)
• Google workspace
• Mathematics
• Fluency in foreign languages
• Creating presentations
• Public speaking
• Critical reading & note-taking

Effective soft skills for your student CV

• Teamwork & collaboration
• Written & verbal communication
• Calmness under pressure
• Determination
• Problem-solving
• Professionalism

All in all, including a balanced mix of both hard and soft skills in your student resume is crucial for demonstrating a well-rounded skill set. This comprehensive approach can significantly increase your chances of standing out in a competitive job market. 

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4. Describe extracurricular & volunteer experience in your student work history

Crafting a work experience section for a student resume can be challenging, especially if you’ve never held a formal job. However, you can still create a compelling resume by highlighting part-time jobs, volunteering, and extracurricular activities .

Employers hiring students understand that your work history might not be extensive. What's crucial is demonstrating your skills, commitment, and experiences through various roles you’ve undertaken.

Bad example of a work experience entry from a student resume

Grayson County High School High School Sports Team Captain August 2020 - Present

• Worked with the team
• Did research for games
• Was Captain for a year

Why is it so bad? This example is vague and doesn’t provide specific details about your responsibilities or achievements.

Good example of a work experience entry from a student resume

Part-Time Jobs

Green Store, New York, NY Cashier June 2021 - August 2021

• Assisted an average of 50 customers per shift, ensuring a positive shopping experience.
• Managed cash transactions totaling $2,000 daily and maintained accurate sales records.
• Trained two new employees on customer service protocols and sales operations.

Volunteering Activities

Be Good Center Community Center Volunteer September 2020 - Present

• Organized community events for up to 100 attendees, including fundraising activities and workshops.
• Developed and led a weekly after-school program for local children, focusing on educational and recreational activities.
• Coordinated food donations, distributing meals to over 50 families each week.

Extracurricular Activities

Grayson County High School Debate Team Captain August 2020 - Present

• Organized a team of 30+ students to meet and practice debating weekly.
• Researched and fact-checked more than 100 debate drafts, providing corrections and feedback when needed.
• Re-elected for the captain position in May 2021 for the 2021-2022 school year.

Why does it hit the mark? This example provides detailed and specific descriptions of each role, highlighting relevant skills and accomplishments. By including part-time jobs, volunteering, and extracurricular activities, it shows a diverse range of experiences and capabilities. Each entry uses quantifiable data, such as the number of customers assisted or the percentage increase in sales, which demonstrates concrete achievements.

In essence, employers value all forms of experience, not just formal work history. By effectively highlighting part-time jobs, volunteering, and extracurricular activities in your work experience section, you can create a well-rounded resume that emphasizes your skills and experiences. Be specific and detailed in your descriptions to make a compelling case for why you’re the right candidate for the job.

5. Use powerful action words in a student resume

Using powerful action words in your student resume can make a substantial difference. These words help to vividly describe your accomplishments and responsibilities, making your resume more dynamic and engaging.

They convey:

• Clarity and precision:  Action words provide clear and precise descriptions of your tasks and achievements, eliminating any ambiguity about your role and contributions.
• Impact: They create a strong and vivid picture of your experiences, making your resume stand out to hiring managers.
• Professionalism: Well-chosen action words demonstrate confidence and a proactive attitude, essential traits in any job seeker.
• Variety: Using varied action words keeps your resume from becoming monotonous and repetitive, maintaining the reader's interest.

Here are some valuable action words for your student resume to choose from:

Leadership and initiative

• Coordinated
• Supervised  

Achievements and results

Communication and collaboration.

• Communicated
• Collaborated

Technical skills

• Troubleshot
• Implemented  

Problem-solving and creativity

Volunteering and extracurricular activities.

• Volunteered
• Participated
• Contributed
• Facilitated

Including powerful action words in your student resume is crucial for creating a compelling and professional document. Not only do they clarify your roles and achievements but they also make your resume more dynamic and impactful. By carefully selecting and implementing these words, you can effectively convey your skills and experiences, making a strong impression on potential employers.

6. List your academic credentials & awards on your student resume

On a standard resume for established professionals, the education section should generally be kept short and sweet. However, student resumes often lack extensive work histories, leaving more room to expand on academic credentials and experience.

When listing an ongoing diploma or degree, it is important to note this to employers using an “Expected Date of Graduation” bullet point. Even though you have not graduated yet, this will give employers a better idea of when you will graduate and how your school schedule may affect the work schedule.

Additionally, it can be useful to include your GPA(s) when writing a resume while still a student, as this can help to illustrate your work ethic to employers.

You may also want to include relevant coursework and school activities, providing employers with a better understanding of the skills and knowledge you've acquired. Highlighting these elements demonstrates your commitment to your field of study and involvement in extracurricular activities, which can be just as valuable as work experience.

Here's an example of a well-crafted education section on a student resume

Wilkes Community College, West Jefferson, NC Associate’s in Business Administration

• Expected Graduation: 2023
• Current GPA:8
• Relevant Coursework: Principles of Marketing, Financial Accounting, Business Ethics, Organizational Behavior
• President of the Business Club, Member of the Student Government Association

Ashe County High School, West Jefferson, NC High School Diploma

• Graduated: 2020

Certifications

• First Aid & CPR, American Red Cross, 2024
• Lifeguard Certification, American Red Cross, 2024

Remember, expanding your education section to include relevant coursework, school activities, and academic awards can make your student resume more compelling. These elements provide a fuller picture of your academic background, skills, and extracurricular involvement, helping to compensate for a lack of extensive work experience.

7. Include valuable extra sections in your student resume

When crafting a student resume, including extra sections can be a valuable way to highlight your unique experiences, skills, and achievements beyond traditional academic qualifications.

These sections allow you to showcase your involvement in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, community service, and relevant projects. By including these extra sections, you can demonstrate your well-roundedness, transferable skills, and personal qualities that make you a standout candidate. Some examples of extra sections to consider for a student resume include:

• Leadership and Involvement : Highlight your participation in student organizations, clubs, or sports teams, emphasizing any leadership positions held and the impact you made.
• Volunteer and Community Service : Showcase your dedication to giving back through volunteering experiences, community projects, or service-learning initiatives.
• Projects and Research : Highlight any significant projects or research work you have undertaken, showcasing your problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and hands-on skills.
• Awards and Recognitions : List any academic or non-academic awards, scholarships, or honors received, demonstrating your outstanding achievements and dedication to excellence.
• Professional Development and Certifications : Include relevant workshops, online courses, or certifications you have completed, emphasizing your commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

Here's an example of how to effectively list your volunteer and community service

• Volunteer, Local Animal Shelter, 2019-Present

Assist in daily operations, including animal care, adoption events, and fundraising activities, promoting animal welfare and community engagement.

• Organizer, Annual Food Drive, XYZ High School, 2017-2020

Coordinated a team of volunteers, collected and sorted donations, and delivered food to local shelters, contributing to hunger relief efforts in the community.

8. Avoid common mistakes on a student resume

Creating a student resume can be challenging, but avoiding common mistakes can make a significant difference in how potential employers perceive your application. Here are some key pitfalls to avoid and tips on how to ensure your resume stands out:

• Being too vague: Using generic descriptions that don’t provide specific details about your experiences and accomplishments won't help your case. Use clear, detailed descriptions and quantify your achievements. Instead of saying “Worked on school projects,” try “Led a team of four classmates on a marketing project that increased social media engagement by 20%.”
• Typos and grammatical errors: Submitting a resume with spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, or incorrect information is a red flag for any hiring manager. Proofread your resume multiple times and consider using proofreading tools . Ask a friend, family member, or mentor to review your resume as well — fresh eyes can catch mistakes you might have missed.
• Overloading with irrelevant information:  Don't include too much information that isn’t relevant to the job you’re applying for, such as unrelated hobbies or excessive personal details. Focus on experiences and skills that are directly relevant to the position. Tailor your resume for each job application by highlighting relevant coursework, activities, and experiences.
• Lack of clear structure: Creating a resume that is hard to read and navigate, with inconsistent formatting and structure is another big mistake. Use a clean, professional layout with consistent fonts, headings, and spacing. Organize sections logically, making it easy for employers to find key information quickly.
• Ignoring keywords: Failing to incorporate keywords from the job description makes it harder for your resume to pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS). Carefully read the job description and incorporate relevant keywords naturally into your resume. Match your skills and experiences to the qualifications listed in the job posting.

Avoiding common mistakes on your student resume is crucial for making a positive impression on potential employers. By being specific, proofreading carefully, focusing on relevant information, maintaining a clear structure, and using appropriate keywords, you can create a strong, professional resume. This approach increases your chances of landing the job and sets you on a path to career success.

9. Submit a relevant student cover letter with your resume

When applying for a job, internship, or any professional opportunity, it's often beneficial to include a cover letter along with your student resume. Understanding the difference between the two documents and ensuring they are cohesively designed can significantly boost your chances of making a strong impression.

A cover letter provides a personalized, narrative introduction to your application. It allows you to explain your interest in the position, highlight your most relevant skills and experiences, and convey enthusiasm for the role. It should be tailored to each specific job, focusing on how you meet the needs of the employer.

A resume, on the other hand, is a structured and concise summary of your academic background, work experience, skills, and accomplishments. It is a factual document designed to allow the hiring manager to quickly assess your qualifications and suitability for the role.

When to include a cover letter?

• Job applications: Always include a cover letter when applying for jobs unless the employer specifically states otherwise. It provides context that your resume alone may not fully convey.
• Internships: Like job applications, internships benefit greatly from a cover letter. It gives you the space to explain why you're interested in the field and how your academic experiences prepare you for the role.
• Scholarships and academic programs: When applying for scholarships or specialized academic programs, a cover letter can highlight your passion, dedication, and relevant achievements.

Having a matching design for your cover letter and resume creates a cohesive and professional appearance. Consistency in fonts, color schemes, and layout not only shows your attention to detail but also strengthens your personal brand.

Tips for consistent design:

• Fonts and colors: Use the same fonts and color schemes in both documents to create a harmonious look.
• Headers and footers: Align the headers and footers of your cover letter with those on your resume. This includes using the same style for your contact information and any additional elements like page numbers.
• Layouts: Ensure consistent spacing, margins, and overall layout to provide a uniform and polished appearance.

Remember, including a relevant cover letter with your student resume is essential for presenting a well-rounded application. This attention to detail not only conveys professionalism but also enhances your personal brand, making you stand out to potential employers.

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10. labor market outlook for fresh graduates.

The labor market for fresh graduates remains strong, though uncertainties persist. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the economy added 303,000 jobs in March, surpassing expectations and contributing to a low unemployment rate of 3.8%.

However, recent college graduates have faced challenges in securing jobs, indicating a mismatch between their qualifications and job market realities. As of October 2022, recent college graduates had an unemployment rate of 7.3% . 

On a more positive note, there are still some sectors filled with job opportunities for new graduates. The industries experiencing significant employment gains include healthcare (+72,000), government (+72,000), construction (+39,000), and leisure and hospitality (+49,000).

As for the salary outlook, the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) found that positive job outcomes for the class of 2022 had returned to pre-pandemic levels. Approximately one-fourth of graduates received a bonus , with men more likely to receive one (32%) compared to women (24%). However, there remains a gender disparity in bonus amounts, with women receiving about $3,200 less than men.

While the labor market presents a promising picture for fresh graduates, disparities in unemployment rates and salary bonuses highlight ongoing challenges. By focusing on industries with robust growth and being mindful of market realities, recent graduates can better navigate their entry into the workforce.

11. Top resources for job-seeking students

Crafting an effective student resume is your first step toward landing that coveted internship, part-time job, or entry-level position. However, knowing where to look for these opportunities is equally important. To complement your freshly polished resume, here’s a curated list of top job search resources specifically designed for students like you:

• Online job search engines: Websites with broad focus like Indeed , SimplyHired , Glassdoor , and ZipRecruiter are great entry points to your professional journey. 
• Job boards for students: Platforms like Handshake , Aftercollege , College Recruiter , or Internmatch offer internships, part-time jobs, seasonal work, and entry-level career opportunities in a wide range of industries. 
• University career services: You should also take advantage of your college or university's career services! These can help you with job placement, resume writing workshops, mock interviews, and attending career fairs. 
• Networking events and career fairs: Attend career fairs and networking events hosted by your university or your local industry groups. These can be great opportunities to meet employers face-to-face and learn about job openings.
• Company websites: You can go straight to the source! If you already have a particular company in mind, search through their official website to find out if they offer internships or entry-level positions. Or reach out to them with your resume and cover letter and enquire about possible collaboration. 
• Continuous learning: Learning doesn't stop the second your feet leave the academic soil! Online platforms like Coursera , edX , Khan Academy , or LinkedIn Learning offer a wide selection of courses that can expand your skills and increase your chances of getting hired.

Remember, the job search process can be competitive and tiring, especially for students with less work experience. It's more like a marathon than a sprint, really. So don't exhaust yourself at the very beginning. And don't forget to always update your resume with every new skill or experience you gain. Good luck!

Student Resume FAQ

What is the importance of a student resume.

Basically, your student resume is something like your ID in the workforce. It shows the recruiters who you are and what you can do. It's an opportunity to showcase your skills, academic achievements, and experiences. Having a resume is a must for anyone active on the job market. Without a resume, you won't be able to apply for job postings, because it's an essential part of any job application. Just as important, it's a chance to stand out amongst the competition and make that all-important first impression.

How can I tailor my resume to match the job description?

Understanding the job description is key. Go back to the job posting and read it thoroughly. Look for any key phrases and words relating to particular skills that are required from the candidate. Understand what the employer is looking for and make sure your skills and experiences align. Next, match keywords from the job description in your resume to show that you're a great potential fit. But, you should never lie on a resume!

What common mistakes should I avoid in crafting my resume?

One common mistake is submitting a generic resume. Each and every job application should have a specifically tailored resume and cover letter. Also, avoid mentioning irrelevant information and unnecessary filler words. Lastly, be wary of any spelling or grammar errors. Typos can easily ruin your first impression. But, an AI powered resume builder can take care of these minor errors for you.

Should my resume be one page or two pages long?

As a student, your resume should be one page long. With limited professional experience, one page should be enough to highlight your skills, education, volunteering, awards, and accomplishments.

Should I include references on my resume?

Undoubtedly, positive references from tutors or mentors can be an excellent guarantee of your skills when you don't have much real-life work experience to back them up. But ŕeferences don't usually belong on your resume. Instead, make a separate document with your references and be ready to produce it when asked to do so by the recruiters. You can also include a short note like “ References available upon request ” at the end of your cover letter .

Julia Belak

Julia is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) and an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Career Coaches (PARWCC™). She is also a passionate translator and graphic designer. Julia holds degrees in translation and interpretation and has international work experience in various countries across Europe, as well as in China and Panama. Julia formerly taught academic writing and contributed as a graphic designer to outlets such as The Business of Business. You'll often find her with a book in one hand and a specialty coffee in the other, always on the lookout for new insights.

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How to Create a Student Resume That Wows Hiring Managers

In today’s competitive job market, creating a strong student resume is an invaluable tool for showcasing your skills and qualifications to potential employers. Whether you’re a recent grad or currently pursuing your degree, taking the time to create and optimize your resume can significantly boost your professional prospects and aid in your job search. Here’s what you need to know to build the best student profile possible. 

How to create a great student resume 

Pick an organized format .

When choosing a resume format, it’s important to consider factors like your level of experience, industry norms, and readability. Here are some tips to organize your resume effectively. 

1. Research industry standards: Different industries might have specific preferences for resume formats. Research what’s commonly accepted in your prospective field and try to align with those norms. Creative fields, like design or marketing, may require more visually appealing and unique formats that show you’ve customized your resume to showcase your individuality. 

2. Consider the ATS (Applicant Tracking System): Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems to scan and filter resumes. Ensure that the format you choose is ATS-friendly , meaning it can be easily scanned and parsed by these systems. Common ATS-friendly formats include MS Word (.docx) or PDF (.pdf) files, avoiding complex designs and layouts.

3. Balance between professionalism and creativity: Consider the nature of the job and the company culture. Some companies value creativity and uniqueness, allowing for a more fun and unique format. In more conservative industries or for positions that require a more professional tone, it’s generally best to choose a clean and straightforward format.

4. Browse resume templates: Lots of online resources offer student resume templates that can help you create a visually appealing and well-structured resume. Choose a template that is easy to read, has clear section headings, and reflects your personal style.

5. Use white space effectively: A good resume format uses empty space effectively, making it easier for recruiters to skim through and locate key information. Avoid overcrowding your resume with excessive text or cluttered designs. Allow your content to breathe and make the important details stand out.

6. Test readability and compatibility: Make sure the font size, typeface, and formatting choices make readability and compatibility easy across different devices and operating systems. Stick to standard and widely accepted font choices like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, as these are easier to read.

Remember, the purpose of your resume format is to create a visually appealing and easy-to-read document that effectively communicates your skills and experiences. Choose a format that aligns with your industry, focuses on relevancy, and showcases your qualifications in the best possible way.

Include your contact information at the top

Beyond communicating your skills and experience, the goal of a resume is to spark a follow-up conversation or job interview. Make it easy for recruiters and hiring managers to reach out to you by putting your contact information at the top of your resume, front and center, right beneath your name. Include a working email and phone number. 

To make sure an interview request doesn’t get lost in an old email account, include an account you check frequently. If you’re graduating from high school or college soon, consider using your personal email address instead of a .edu address. 

Sometimes, you’ll see physical addresses written on a resume. This is entirely optional. If you’re applying to jobs outside of your city or state, you might want to leave this information out. 

If you already live in the area where your prospective jobs are, a local address could signal to a hiring manager that you’re already in close proximity and might be able to start work sooner. Use your best judgment. And if it makes you uncomfortable to share your physical address, don’t feel pressured to do so.

Take stock of your current experience

Most professional resumes feature an “experience” section that highlights previous experience to showcase the applicant’s preparedness for a particular role. But as a student, you probably don’t have a ton of experience –– and that’s to be expected. 

If this is the case, it’s a good idea to prioritize relevant education over work experience. Create an education section and use it to showcase your academic achievements, coursework, and acquired skills. At this stage in your life, your education experience is likely the best way to prove you’re prepared for the role. 

That’s not to say there aren’t people who haven’t accumulated relevant experience by the time they’re in college. If your experience is more relevant to the position than your coursework, you may decide to prioritize that instead. 

For example, if you’ve held relevant internships, part-time jobs, work-study roles , or volunteer positions that showcase skills or experiences related to the job, this may be more appealing to the hiring manager.

But for most students, highlighting your education is the best way to demonstrate a commitment to growth, academic performance, and qualifications for the role. 

Include details like your degree or program , the name of the institution, your expected graduation date, your GPA, and any academic achievements (honors/awards) or relevant coursework/projects. If you’ve received a prestigious or merit-based scholarship , you might want to include that too.

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Add a “relevant skills” section 

On your resume, include a “skills” section that showcases both hard and soft skills . Depending on the type of industry you’re entering and the role you’re pursuing, these skills will vary. An easy distinction: hard skills are technical knowledge you’ve learned and soft skills are personal qualities that influence your work. 

For example…

• If you’re applying for a mechanical engineering position, knowledge of a program like CAD is a hard skill, and the ability to work well on a team is a soft skill.
• If you’re applying for a project management position, an understanding of budgeting would be a hard skill, and communication might be a soft skill to include on your resume.

While soft skills have more to do with your personality, they’re still skills that you can can improve upon, like teamwork, organization, and leadership.

Highlight an equal amount of appropriate hard and soft skills on your resume. Don’t go overboard in listing every possible skill. You’ll only want to include realistic skills you can speak to in an interview setting. 

Include your extracurricular activities 

As a student, the “extracurricular activity” section of your resume is another opportunity to showcase experience and skills outside of a traditional work context. Detail your level of commitment (i.e. how many years you’ve participated in this activity) and highlight any leadership positions you’ve held. 

Extracurriculars you may want to include are clubs, sports teams, volunteer positions , student government, academic societies, multicultural organizations, Greek life, etc. This is not an exhaustive list. Include any other type of extracurricular that might add another dimension to your resume and offer insight into your work ethic, commitment, and personality. 

This can also be a great way to showcase a passion or interest. When a recruiter is looking at your resume, a shared love for animals and a history of volunteering at the SPCA might become a natural point of connection and an easy talking point during the interview . 

Depending upon the format of your resume and how much content you have in other places on your resume, it might help to create an “extracurricular activities” section to keep things organized.

Use action verbs and bullet points 

Using action verbs and bullet points in your resume can make it more dynamic, engaging, and easy to read for employers. Here’s a breakdown of how to effectively use them. 

Action Verbs

Start your bullet points with strong action verbs to describe your achievements, responsibilities, and experiences. Action verbs add impact to your resume and make your accomplishments stand out. Here are some examples of action verbs you can use:

• Led (e.g. a study group) 
• Managed (e.g. an extracurricular club) 
• Collaborated (e.g. on a group project) 
• Organized (e.g. an on-campus shoe drive) 
• Implemented
• Volunteered

Choose verbs that are specific to your field and accurately convey your actions or accomplishments. Avoid using passive language or weak verbs like “assisted” or “helped.” Be confident and proactive in the way you present your experiences.

Bullet Points

Bullet points help to structure and organize information in your resume, making it easier to scan and understand quickly. Follow these guidelines when using bullets: 

• Keep it concise : Aim for concise bullet points that are no longer than two lines. Brevity helps employers quickly grasp your key achievements and responsibilities.
• Use quantifiable results : Whenever possible, include specific numbers, percentages, or other measurables to quantify your achievements. If your on-campus fundraiser generated $10,000 for a good cause, make sure you mention that.
• Be specific : Avoid using vague language. Instead, provide concrete details about your accomplishments, responsibilities, and skills. For example, instead of saying “worked on a project,” say “managed a team of five to successfully complete a project under tight deadlines.”
• Avoid excessive bullet points: While it’s crucial to highlight your experiences, skills, and achievements, it’s also important to avoid clutter. Aim for 3-5 bullets per work experience or accomplishment to help maintain readability and focus on the most important points.

Remember, the goal of using action verbs and bullet points is to make it easy for employers to quickly understand your qualifications and achievements. Use these guidelines to showcase your skills and streamline your resume for hiring managers.

Keep it short

A student resume should rarely be longer than one single page. Set yourself up for success by creating a resume that stands out for its content and not its lack of proper formatting or unwieldy length. A single page can offer a detailed snapshot of your work experience and qualifications without requiring too much time to read.  

If you’re struggling to keep your content to one page, go back through with an editor’s eye and find areas to trim – or ask a friend, parent, teacher, or counselor to look on your behalf. 

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Student Resume Writing Tips and Examples for 2024

As a student, you may be wondering why having a resume is important. After all, you’re not applying for a job yet, right? Wrong! Your student resume is an essential tool that can help you stand out from other applicants, showcasing your achievements, skills, and potential to potential employers, scholarship committees, and college admission officers. In this article, we will explore the purpose and goals of writing a student resume and provide you with valuable tips and examples to help you craft a compelling and effective document.

Importance of a Student Resume

A student resume can be a powerful tool that highlights your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership skills, community involvement, and other key factors that demonstrate your potential as a candidate. Not only can it help you land internships, part-time jobs, and other opportunities while you’re still in school, but it can also help you stand out when applying to colleges, scholarships, and future job opportunities after graduation.

Furthermore, writing a student resume can help you identify your strengths, set goals, and gain clarity on your career aspirations. By reflecting on your experiences, accomplishments, and values, you can develop a narrative that shows your unique personality, passion, and potential.

Purpose and Goals of the Article

The purpose of this article is to provide you with practical tips and examples to help you create a well-crafted student resume that effectively communicates your qualifications and potential. Specifically, our goals are to:

• Explain the key elements of a successful student resume
• Provide guidance on how to structure your resume and format it for clarity and readability
• Offer tips on how to highlight your strengths and accomplishments, including academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership experience, and community service
• Share insights on how to tailor your resume for different audiences, such as employers, colleges, and scholarship committees
• Offer real-life examples of successful student resumes to inspire and guide you as you create your own document

By following the advice and examples provided in this article, you will be better equipped to craft a powerful and effective student resume that showcases your potential, sets you apart from other candidates, and opens doors to new opportunities.

Understanding the basics of a Resume

Definition and structure of a resume.

A resume is a document that summarizes an individual’s work experience, education, skills, and achievements. It is usually a one or two-page document that is used by job seekers to showcase their qualifications to potential employers.

The key components of a standard resume include:

• Contact information (name, phone number, email address, and location)
• Professional summary or objective
• Work experience (chronological or functional)
• Education (degrees, certifications, and coursework)
• Skills (technical, soft, and language)
• Awards and extracurricular activities (relevant and recent)

The structure of a resume should be clear, concise, and easy to follow. The font type and size, formatting, and spacing should be consistent throughout the document.

Difference between CV and Resume

Although CV (curriculum vitae) and resume are often used interchangeably, they have different meanings and purposes.

A CV is a comprehensive document that lists a person’s academic and professional qualifications, publications, research projects, and teaching experience. It is typically a longer document than a resume and used mainly in academic, medical, or scientific fields.

On the other hand, a resume is a brief summary of a person’s relevant qualifications and work experience, tailored to a specific job opportunity. It is designed to highlight a candidate’s achievements and skills that are most relevant to the particular job.

While a CV provides an exhaustive record of your academic and professional history, a resume is a marketing tool that communicates your relevant skills and experience to potential employers. When applying for job opportunities, it’s important to understand the differences between the two and use each appropriately. ** Preparing for Resume Writing

Before sitting down to write your resume, it’s important to take the time to properly prepare. This involves a few key steps, starting with a self-assessment of your skills and experience.

Self-assessment and skill identification

To start, make a list of all the skills you possess, including hard skills like knowledge of software programs or technical abilities, as well as soft skills like communication and teamwork. Be specific and include examples of how you’ve demonstrated each skill in the past.

Next, consider your experience. List all relevant jobs and internships, along with the duties and responsibilities you had in each role. Also include any volunteer work, extracurricular activities, or leadership positions you’ve held.

By conducting this self-assessment, you’ll not only be better prepared to write your resume, but you’ll also have a better understanding of your own strengths and weaknesses as a candidate.

Researching the Job and the Company

Once you have a clear picture of your own skills and experience, you can begin researching the job and the company you’re applying to. Look at the job description and make note of the key qualifications and responsibilities. Consider how your own experience and skills match up with what the employer is looking for.

You should also research the company itself to gain a better understanding of their values, culture, and overall mission. This information can help you tailor your resume to better align with the company’s goals and objectives.

Tailoring the Resume to the job description

Finally, it’s crucial to tailor your resume to the specific job and company you’re applying to. This involves carefully reviewing the job description and making sure your resume highlights the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position.

This may involve rearranging the order of your resume content, adding new bullet points or details that highlight specific skills, or even creating a new resume entirely. By tailoring your resume to the job description, you’ll increase your chances of standing out as a qualified candidate.

Taking the time to prepare for resume writing involves a self-assessment of your skills and experience, researching the job and company, and tailoring your resume to the specific position. By following these steps, you’ll be better prepared to create a strong, effective resume that showcases your qualifications as a candidate.

Resume Content Guidelines

Crafting a well-written and comprehensive student resume can seem like a daunting task. However, with the right tips and examples, you can easily make your resume stand out from the crowd.

To help you get started, here are some essential content guidelines that you should include in your student resume.

Contact Information Your contact information should always be at the very top of your resume. This includes your full name, phone number, email address, and physical address (optional). Make sure that your email address is professional, and avoid using unprofessional usernames such as “crazyhorse1234.”

Personal Summary Statement Your personal summary statement is a brief paragraph (about 2-3 sentences) that shows your potential employer what you can bring to the table. Here, you can outline your strengths, achievements, and goals. Make sure to keep it concise and to the point.

Education Your education should be highlighted in a clear and concise format. This includes the name of the institution, the degree or certification obtained, and the date of graduation (or expected graduation). Don’t forget to mention your GPA if it’s above 3.0.

Work Experience When listing your work experience, be sure to include your job title, the name of the company, and the dates of employment. It’s also important to include a brief description of your role and duties. Use bullet points to make the information easier to read.

Internship and Volunteer Experience Even if you haven’t had a traditional job, including experience from internships or volunteer work can be incredibly beneficial. List the name of the organization, dates of service, and your role and responsibilities.

Leadership and Extracurricular Activities Employers want to see that you’re well-rounded and have a variety of skills. Highlighting leadership positions and extracurricular activities shows that you’re not only dedicated to your studies but also active in your community.

Skills and Certifications Whether you’re proficient in a particular software program or have a certification in a particular field, including this information demonstrates that you have the skills required for the job.

Professional References Finally, make sure to list the name and contact information of at least one professional reference. This can be a former supervisor, professor, or mentor who can attest to your skills and work ethic.

By following these content guidelines and using proper formatting, you can create a standout student resume that showcases your skills and experience to potential employers.

Formatting and Style

When it comes to creating your student resume, you want to be sure that it looks polished and professional. The formatting and style of your resume can make all the difference in how it’s received by potential employers. Here are some tips on how to ensure that your resume is top-notch:

Choosing the Right Resume Format

There are three main types of resume formats: chronological, functional, and combination. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your experience and career goals. For example, if you have a lot of relevant work experience, a chronological format might be the best choice. On the other hand, if you’re just starting out in your career or have gaps in your employment history, a functional format might be more effective.

Fonts, Spacing, and Margins

When it comes to fonts, stick to something basic and easy to read, like Times New Roman or Arial. Avoid using fonts that are too fancy or difficult to read, as this will only detract from the content of your resume. The spacing and margins of your resume should also be consistent and easy on the eyes. Stick to a standard margin (around 1 inch), and use a line spacing of 1.15 to 1.5.

Using Action Words and Quantifiable Results

One of the most important things you can do on your resume is to use action words and show quantifiable results wherever possible. For example, instead of saying that you “assisted customers,” say that you “provided exemplary customer service to over 100 customers per day.” This not only sounds more impressive, but it also shows potential employers that you can back up your claims with real-world results.

Proofreading and Editing Your Resume

Finally, be sure to proofread and edit your resume carefully. This means checking for typos and grammatical errors, as well as making sure that your formatting and style are consistent throughout. It can be helpful to have someone else read over your resume as well, as they may be able to catch mistakes or provide feedback that you might have missed.

Formatting and style are crucial elements of any effective resume. By choosing the right format, using easy-to-read fonts and consistent spacing, highlighting your achievements with action words and quantifiable results, and carefully proofreading and editing your work, you can help ensure that your student resume stands out from the competition.

Tips for Writing a Winning Resume

When crafting a resume, it’s important to focus on showcasing your accomplishments, avoiding common mistakes, adhering to professional ethics, staying professional and honest, and customizing the document for specific roles and industries. Here are a few practical tips to keep in mind:

Highlighting Accomplishments

One of the most critical elements of a student resume is highlighting your accomplishments. Instead of merely listing your responsibilities or duties, focus on describing how you have made a difference in your previous roles. Use numbers and metrics to quantify your achievements as much as possible. For example, instead of saying “Assisted with marketing campaigns,” say “Developed and executed a successful social media campaign that resulted in a 25% increase in website traffic.” Highlighting your accomplishments will demonstrate your value and make you stand out to potential employers.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

There are many common mistakes that students can make when putting together their resumes. These include typos and grammatical errors, using flashy or unprofessional fonts, including irrelevant information or listing hobbies/interests that aren’t impressive or relevant to the position. Additionally, it is important to ensure consistency in formatting, use white space effectively, and use bullet points to break down information in a clear and concise manner.

Adhering to Professional Ethics

When creating your resume, it is important to adhere to professional ethics. This means being honest and truthful in your statements, avoiding exaggeration or lies, respecting confidential information, and presenting yourself in a professional manner. Remember that your resume is a representation of you and your work ethics, and potential employers will be evaluating you based on its content and format.

Staying Professional and Honest

Professionalism and honesty go hand in hand when writing a resume. Avoid using informal language or slang, and do not use first-person pronouns. Write in complete sentences and use proper grammar and punctuation. You should also avoid exaggerating your skills or experiences, as this can come back to haunt you later on. It’s always better to under-promise and over-deliver than the other way around.

Customizing the Resume for Specific Roles and Industries

Finally, it is important to customize your resume for specific roles and industries. Use relevant keywords and industry-specific terminology to help your resume get past the automated screening systems. Highlight your experience and skills that are most relevant to the position you’re applying for, and consider tailoring your resume to each job application. This will help you stand out as a candidate who understands the needs of the company and the requirements of the role.

By following these tips, you can create a winning resume that showcases your skills, accomplishments, and value as a potential employee. Keep in mind that your resume is a reflection of you and your work ethics, so make sure you put in the time and effort required to make it stand out from the hundreds of others in the pile. Good luck!

Resume Examples for Students

Writing a resume can be daunting, especially for students who may not have much experience. However, with the right guidance and a few examples, crafting a standout resume is more manageable than it may seem. Here are some resume examples for different student scenarios:

Samples for High School and College Students

High school and college students typically have limited work experience, but that doesn’t mean they are incapable of creating a strong resume. Here are some tips for writing a resume as a student:

• Highlight relevant coursework or projects
• Detail relevant extracurricular activities, such as leadership roles in clubs or volunteer work
• Emphasize any internships or part-time jobs

A student resume sample might include the following sections:

• Contact information
• Relevant coursework or projects
• Extracurricular activities
• Work experience (if applicable)

Resumes for Internship and Summer Jobs

Applying for internships or summer jobs is an excellent way for students to gain experience and build their resumes. Here are some tips for writing a resume for these positions:

• Highlight any relevant internships or coursework related to the position
• Detail relevant skills and experience that make you the right fit for the job
• Emphasize any volunteer or extracurricular work that demonstrates your work ethic and skills

Resume Example 1: Marketing Internship

Sarah Davis 123 Main Street, City, State 12345 (123) 456-7890 [email protected]

Bachelor of Business Administration XYZ University, City, State Expected Graduation: May 2024

• Proficient in social media platforms and digital marketing tools
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Creative thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Attention to detail and organizational skills
• Team player with the ability to collaborate effectively

Marketing Intern, ABC Company City, State Summer 2022

• Assisted in developing and executing social media campaigns
• Created engaging content for various digital platforms
• Conducted market research and competitor analysis
• Assisted with event planning and coordination

Digital Marketing Campaign

• Developed and managed a digital marketing campaign for a local event
• Created content for social media platforms and analyzed campaign performance
• Collaborated with team members to optimize campaign strategies

Leadership and Involvement

• Member, Marketing Club, XYZ University (2020-Present)
• Volunteer, Local Charity Organization (2020-2021)

Certifications

• Google Ads Certification (2022)
• HubSpot Content Marketing Certification (2022)

A resume example for an internship or summer job might include:

• Objective or summary statement
• Relevant skills and experience
• Relevant extracurricular or volunteer work

Resume Example 2: Summer Job – Retail Sales Associate

Michael Johnson 456 Oak Street, City, State 12345 (234) 567-8901 [email protected]

High School Diploma XYZ High School, City, State Graduation Date: May 2023

• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills
• Strong communication and active listening abilities
• Attention to detail and accuracy in cash handling
• Knowledge of product inventory and merchandising
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and team-oriented environment

Retail Sales Associate, XYZ Store City, State Summer 2022

• Assisted customers with product inquiries and provided recommendations
• Operated cash register and processed transactions accurately
• Restocked merchandise and maintained store cleanliness
• Assisted in visual merchandising and product displays

Achievements

• Received “Employee of the Month” award for outstanding customer service (2022)

Volunteer Experience

• Volunteer, Local Community Center (2020-2021)

Extracurricular Activities

• Member, High School Debate Team (2019-2023)
• Captain, Varsity Soccer Team (2019-2023)

Resumes for Recent Graduates and Entry-Level Positions

Recent graduates and those seeking entry-level positions may have limited experience, but they likely have transferable skills and relevant coursework that can make them strong candidates.

Resume Example 3: Recent Graduate

John Smith 123 Main Street, City, State 12345 (123) 456-7890 [email protected]

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration XYZ University, City, State Graduation Date: May 2023

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills

Work Experience

Intern, ABC Company City, State Summer 2022

• Assisted with data analysis and report generation
• Supported team in project management tasks
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams on various initiatives

Business Strategy Project

• Developed a comprehensive business strategy proposal for a local startup
• Presented findings and recommendations to company stakeholders
• President, Business Club, XYZ University (2021-2023)
• Volunteer, Habitat for Humanity (2020-2021)

Honors and Awards

• Dean’s List, XYZ University (2019-2023)

Resume Example 4: Entry-Level Marketing Assistant

Emily Johnson 456 Oak Street, City, State 12345 (234) 567-8901 [email protected]

Bachelor of Arts in Marketing XYZ University, City, State Graduation Date: May 2023

• Strong copywriting and content creation skills
• Excellent project management and organizational abilities
• Data analysis and market research skills
• Creative problem-solving and strategic thinking

Marketing Intern, XYZ Company City, State Summer 2022

• Assisted in developing and implementing social media campaigns

Marketing Campaign for Local Nonprofit

• Developed and executed a marketing campaign to raise awareness and funds for a local nonprofit organization
• Managed social media accounts and created engaging content
• Collaborated with team members to create promotional materials
• Secretary, Marketing Association, XYZ University (2021-2023)
• Volunteer, Local Food Bank (2020-2021)
• Marketing Student of the Year, XYZ University (2022)

Remember to customize these examples based on your own education, skills, experiences, and career goals.

Cover Letter Writing Tips

A cover letter is a complementary document to your resume, intended to introduce yourself and highlight your qualifications to a potential employer. The goal of a cover letter is to convince the employer that you are the best candidate for the position, and to encourage them to review your resume and invite you for an interview.

Purpose and Content of Cover Letter

The content of the cover letter will depend on the job you are applying for and your experience. However, the typical cover letter should include the following elements:

• An opening sentence that explains why you are writing
• A brief introduction that highlights your most relevant qualifications and achievements
• A description of your skills and experiences that are relevant to the job
• An explanation of why you are interested in the company and the position
• A closing paragraph that thanks the employer for considering your application and reiterates your interest in the position

The purpose of the cover letter is to convey your enthusiasm and interest in the position, as well as your qualifications and experience.

Format and Structure of Cover Letter

The format of a cover letter is typically in three to four paragraphs, and it should be no longer than one page. A well-structured and properly formatted cover letter will help to make a good first impression. Here is a basic structure to follow:

Header: Start with your contact details, followed by the date and the employer’s contact details.

Salutation: Begin with the recipient’s name if possible, if you cannot find their name, use “Dear Hiring Manager.”

Opening Paragraph: Start strong with a hook or anecdote that catches the reader’s attention and demonstrates your enthusiasm for the job.

Body Paragraphs: The meat of the cover letter, where you highlight your skills and experience. Make sure to relate this to the specific job you are seeking.

Closing Paragraph: End on a strong note by thanking the employer for considering your application and asking for an interview

Tips for Writing a Memorable Cover Letter

Here are some tips to help you write a cover letter that will stand out from the crowd:

• Customize your cover letter for each job application instead of using a generic one for every job.
• Start with a strong opening sentence, such as a personal story or anecdote, to capture the reader’s attention.
• Highlight your most relevant accomplishments and experiences to the job you are applying for.
• Show your enthusiasm for the job and the company by explaining why you are interested in the position and the organization.
• Use bullet points to make it easy for the employer to scan over your cover letter.
• Proofread your cover letter and edit it carefully, looking for any grammatical errors or typos.

A cover letter is an important tool in securing a job interview, and it should be written with care and attention to detail.

Follow-up Strategies

After submitting your resume, it’s essential to have a post-resume submission strategy. This section will cover some tips for following up after submitting your resume, handling rejection and accepting an offer, and additional steps you can take to boost your resume and career growth.

Post-Resume Submission Strategies

Following up after submitting your resume can make a big difference in whether or not you hear back from the company. Here are a few post-resume submission strategies to consider:

• Send a follow-up email. If you don’t hear back within two weeks, send a polite follow-up email to ask about the status of your application. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and your professionalism.
• Make a phone call. If you haven’t heard back after a few weeks, consider making a phone call. This can help you have a more personal conversation and potentially stand out from other applicants.
• Connect with the hiring manager on LinkedIn. If you can find the hiring manager’s information, try to connect with them on LinkedIn. This can help you build a relationship and possibly get more information about the role.

Handling Rejection and Accepting an Offer

Not every job application will result in an offer, and that’s okay. If you receive a rejection, take the following steps:

• Thank the employer for considering your application. A gracious email or note can help leave a positive impression and keep you in the employer’s mind if future roles come up.
• Ask for feedback. If you receive a rejection, ask if the employer can provide feedback on why you weren’t selected. This can help you improve for future applications.
• Keep a positive attitude. Rejection is difficult, but try to learn from it and move on to the next opportunity.

If you do receive an offer, congratulations! Here are a few tips for accepting an offer:

• Review the offer carefully. Make sure you fully understand the terms of the employment before accepting.
• Thank the employer for the offer. Show your appreciation for the opportunity.
• Follow up with any necessary paperwork. Make sure you fill out any paperwork or provide any necessary information promptly.

Additional Steps to Boost Resume and Career Growth

To continue growing your career, here are a few additional steps you can take:

• Network. Connect with professionals in your field to learn from them and potentially find new opportunities.
• Consider further education. If there is a specific area you want to improve on, consider taking classes or pursuing a certification.
• Volunteer or take on a side project. This can help you gain new skills and show your dedication to your field.
• Keep updating your resume. Even once you have a job, continue updating your resume with new skills, accomplishments, and experiences to showcase your growth.

By following these post-resume submission strategies, handling rejection and accepting an offer professionally, and continuing to take steps to boost your career growth, you will be well on your way to creating a strong professional profile.

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