Although college applications do not typically request or require a resume, this document may be required for grant or scholarship applications. Having an up-to-date resume is also useful for job and internship applications during a young person's college years. High school is a great time to establish the practice of keeping a resume. 

 

 

It is often easier to start with a template. Many templates can be found online. High school students will want to place their education information on top as this has been their most significant "job" in recent years. This is not the place to detail information that can already be found on a student's transcript. However, a student may wish to highlight academic achievements and other information that will not be found elsewhere in a college application package. Along with academic extras, the resume offers an opportunity to fill in details that aren't available on a student's transcript or essays. For example, a resume will list volunteer jobs, work experience, and leadership.

 

 

 

WHEN

 

Now is the perfect time to work on your resume. Having a polished resume in your back pocket will mean you have one less thing to create when you’re already busy your senior year. Resumes are useful to offer recommenders and some scholarships require a resume. Though most college applications do not require a resume, a completed resume makes a great reference resource when you are completing the activities & awards sections of your college applications.

 

WHERE

 

Templates can be found in software programs such as Word or using an Internet search. You’ll want to use keywords such as “High School Resume” “College Application Resume” in your search.

Note: As always, follow safe Internet practices that are approved by your parent.

 

SIMPLICITY

 

Unless you’re applying to an art school and have been advised to get creative with fonts and formats, keep it fairly simple.

 

FOCUS

 

Remember your target audience. If this is for a college or scholarship application, you’ll want to highlight some of your academic achievements that cannot be seen on your transcript. A resume is also a great place to highlight the details of your extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and work experience.

 

BALANCE

 

Your resume should not duplicate your transcript or other application materials, though there may be some overlap.

 

REQUIREMENTS

 

Make sure to follow directions. If a scholarship asks you to submit a resume without your GPA, create a copy for that submission with your GPA removed.