how to make a resume for a high school student

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20 High School Student Resume Examples Created for 2024

High School Student Resume

• High School Student Resumes by Experience
• High School Student Resumes by Role

High school is one of the best times of your life, but it can also be one of the most difficult when looking for your first or second job. You’ve got to fill out applications, prep for interviews, and write your resume.

Using ChatGPT for resumes  is a cool idea, but can still feel daunting and overwhelming. We’ve all been there, and what you really need is a free AI resume builder and solid student cover letters to get you on your way.

We’ve analyzed countless high school resumes to discover  what would get students job interviews in 2024 . While you may want to start with a simple  resume outline , keep reading to find 20 high school resume samples (plus writing tips) that are jam-packed with essential techniques and tricks.

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• If you choose to use a template, make sure you adjust the  resume’s formatting  so that your text is big enough to read with one-inch margins on the side.
• However, you should write your bullet points like you would for a job. Highlight any responsibilities and accomplishments relevant to the job you’re applying for now.
• For example, if you’re looking for a job in sales, emphasize your ability to work in groups and create a good customer experience.

High School Student No Experience Resume

• If you don’t have work history, include projects and volunteer work instead. Treat them like a job and write bullet points according to your responsibilities.
• Make sure you start every bullet point with active verbs, and always double-check for typos. You’ve got this!
• Include your unique skills, your desired position, and the company you hope to work for to make your objective stand out from the rest!

Beginner High School Student Resume

• But here’s the deal, schools won’t provide funds like candy—so convey why exactly you need a scholarship using the career objective. In Morwenna’s case, her pursuit of gaining knowledge to make societal changes is a compelling argument that no school can ignore. Basically, make them think, “We need this future reformer in our school.”

High School Internship Resume

• You ideally want key industry-proof skills that can work in any internship such as Google Sheets, Adobe Lightroom, and Todoist. These also become a testament to not just your super-fast learning ability but also your tech-savviness with current software!

First Job High School Student Resume

• To remedy that problem, add a  skills section on your resume  to give hiring managers an important overview of your strengths.
• To really highlight your abilities, incorporate the same skills in your work experience, too. Demonstrate how you used your skills to better your workplace, and you can’t go wrong!
• Adding stylistic elements like color and different fonts can help you show a bit of your personality (and make your resume more fun to read). 

Experienced High School Student Resume

• Remember, your resume is a highlight reel, so you need to include what’s most important (like your achievements and relevant metrics). 
• You can adjust your layout, font sizes, and margins, but keep it easy to read. 
• Use a bit of color and some fun fonts, provided it still looks professional. You’ve got this!

High School Senior Resume

• This statement must align with the potential employer’s needs, proving you understand the job requirements and have gone the extra mile to address doubts about your capabilities. As for experiences that might have prepared you for the job, workshops and volunteering programs you’ve participated in are prominent candidates.

Out of High School Resume

• Leisure activities range from soccer, hiking, drawing and sketching, robotics, and photography to journalism. But how do they fit in the picture? Well, a penchant for drawing and sketching could reflect creativity and an eye for detail, while journalism stints could hint at strong communication and critical thinking.

High School Graduate Resume

• Right from the first line of the career objective, you can see the candidate’s passion and willingness to work in this field. Notice how Serai’s love for photography is clearly backed by a previous project for a school newspaper.
• These details will be perfect when Serai’s ready for the AI cover letter generator to bring her application to perfection.

High School Diploma Resume

• In the education section of your high school diploma resume, include your diploma, the school’s name, and your start and end date. Add some useful software skills to the mix to secure your seat in any undergraduate program.

Recent High School Graduate Resume

• Begin with clearing which stream and degree you want to pursue. Next, follow suit with your mission and what you hope to gain by completing the program. Try some more personalization by linking your career goal with the college’s agenda.

High School Student Scholarship Resume

• Your high school student scholarship resume should vividly show your positive contributions to noble causes, such as offering ADLs to seniors, and emphasize your impact on society.

High School Student College Application Resume

• Ensure your high school student college application resume shows your practical and classwork achievements that emphasize your grand vision to make a positive contribution to society.

High School Student for College Resume

• Before hitting “submit,” always  check your resume  for typos and other minor errors. It’s amazing what you can miss during your first few reviews.
• A good GPA can demonstrate, at least in part, your willingness to work hard. We’d recommend including your GPA only if it’s above 3.5, but anything above a 3 is a good average.

High School Student for Customer Service Resume

• Including projects, volunteer work, or club memberships is a great way to add value to your resume.
• Your resume should focus on your abilities and other activities you’ve engaged in that will show your value.
• Read the responsibilities and qualifications to look for key skills and tasks. Then, incorporate some of those skills and responsibilities into your high school student customer service resume.

High School Student Internship Resume

• For example, if the job description lists responsibilities like writing and analyzing data, include “written communication” and “data analysis” in your skills section.
• One easy way to customize your resume is by focusing your  resume skills  on things that apply to the internship. 
• Make sure you keep your resume professional and to the point. You don’t want to include anything too personal about your beliefs, religion, politics, or personal information.
• For example, you can list “volunteering at local church,” but avoid saying “fasting every weekend.” It doesn’t show off relevant skills and is a bit too forward for a resume.

High School Student Office Worker Resume

• Good projects include anything that demonstrates your leadership abilities or desire for knowledge. Senior projects, personal blogs, or even being on a sports team are all good examples to include!
• Add work experience directly under your contact information and name, then add any relevant projects if you’re low on space. 
• While there are plenty of  resume writing tips , your resume should be as unique as you. Don’t get so caught up in what you think you “should” do that your resume is bland and cookie-cutter. 

High School Student Sales Resume

• Numbers demonstrate your value, and they’re useful tools for the Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) software that hiring managers use to sort through job applicants.
• Trust us, and incorporate metrics into at least 80% of your bullet points!
• For example, you know that different  resume templates  can change your resume’s appearance, but different templates can also stretch or streamline your content. 
• Mess with multiple templates to see what your content will look like—you may find a template that allows for more room, or one that allows you to highlight your skills better.

High School Student Athlete  Resume

• Think of a time you proved you were the MVP on your team—Did you lead your team to a championship? Perhaps you made the game-winning shot in a crucial, nail-biting game?

High School Student Music Resume

• When you include hobbies like songwriting or your interest in classical music in your high school student music resume , it conveys to your recruiter that you’re super dedicated and passionate about your craft.
• You can also include hobbies that are different, too. For example, if you enjoy experimenting with new recipes from around the world, that can show you’re ready to give new genres a whirl or that you understand that music—while art—is still supposed to be fun and adventuresome.

Related resume guides

• Entry Level

High School Resume - How-To Guide for 2024 [11+ Samples]

Whether you’re preparing your college application, applying for an internship, or looking for a part-time job, you’ll notice that every single place is asking for your resume. 

You sit down, work on your resume for an hour, trying to come up with what you can include.

And all you end up with is the name of the high school you’re attending.

“What gives?” you wonder.

“What else can I add to my resume, when I have zero work experience?”

That’s a more than valid concern and it’s exactly what we’re going to discuss in this article! 

We’re going to tell you exactly what to write so that your resume is as convincing as any other (even with zero work experience). 

• What to include in a high school resume
• 4 Free high school templates you can use
• A real-life high school resume example
• FAQ on high school resumes

Let’s start with the question you’ve been repeatedly asking yourself:

What to Include in My High School Resume?

At the end of the day, resumes are about showing an employer that you are the right person for the job. 

You want to show you’re a competent, passionate, and responsible individual, with the right skills to get the job done.

Well, work experience isn’t the only way to convince recruiters of that. 

Instead, you can focus on the following sections:

• #1. Contact Information - This is where you write down your personal and contact information (no surprise there) like first and last name, phone number, e-mail address, or links to other profiles.
• #2. Resume Objective - In 3-4 sentences, you should be able to describe your career goals and aspirations as well as list your skills.
• #3. Education - As you probably guessed, this is where you list your education history and relevant certifications.
• #4. Extracurricular Activities - These include participation in high school clubs, competitive events, and volunteer work.
• #5. Projects & Gigs - You can mention relevant projects you have participated in, as well as any internships.
• #6. Work Experience (optional) - If you don’t have any work experience, you can mention apprenticeships or volunteer work instead.
• #7. Languages - Language skills are always a plus for your application.
• #8. Hobbies & Interests - These offer some insight into your personality and can show that you’re passionate and interested in the industry.

As you can see, there’s a lot that can go into your resume to make up for the missing work experience. 

Now, we’ll dive into each of these sections in detail and teach you how to do each of them right!

So, let’s start with:

#1. Contact Information

The contact information isn’t too hard to pull off.

Here’s what you need to include here:

• First and Last Name
• Phone Number
• Email Address

Make sure to use a professional email address , something like: [email protected]. Using your middle school [email protected] account will not leave the right impression. 

#2. Resume Objective

A resume objective is a 3-4 sentence statement of your skills, achievements, and career goals . 

Think of it as a short summary of why you’re applying for this specific position and why you’d be a good candidate for it.

You should try your best to link this summary to the role you are applying for. 

For example, if you’re applying for a position as a sales associate, you should make a point of your good social skills, proficiency in math, and teamwork skills.

Let’s have a look at a concrete example of a resume objective for this case:

Hard-working, responsible high school student looking to contribute a positive and collaborative attitude in the retail field. Math-oriented individual with good attention to detail.

#3. Education

In a typical resume, this comes after the work experience section. 

For a high school resume, though, you’d want to do it the other way around, since you want to put more focus on your academic achievements.

This section will most probably consist of only one entry: your high school education. 

Here’s how you can format your education section:

• Name of the Degree
• Name of the Institution
• Years Attended
• GPA (if above 3.5)
• Honors (if applicable)
• Relevant Courses

High School Diploma (Honor Roll)

AB High School

09/2015 - 06/2019

• Relevant courses: AP Calculus, Statistics, Leadership

#4. Extracurricular Activities

Now, this section could be one of your biggest selling points. 

Even if you have a not-so-special GPA, extracurriculars can turn your resume around. These activities are typically school-related, like participation in clubs or student societies. 

Involvement in such, especially in leadership positions like club president or team captain, shows you are sociable and active in your pursuits. 

When listing your extracurricular activities, you should format each entry like this:

Student Body Treasurer

Student Government, AB High School

• Managed the student council’s funds and expenses, kept financial records, and worked with the president and vice president to create budgets and allot funds for clubs and events.
• Participated in organizing student activities like dances, spirit weeks, community service, and fundraising movements and assemblies.

#5. Projects & Gigs

Here you can mention (or even link to) any independent projects you’ve worked on - something you’ve done on the side, unrelated to academics. 

This could be a personal project, small business or startup, side-gig, blog, etc.

Such activities add a lot of value to your resume. They show you’re a self-starter and that’s a quality that’s very much appreciated in any role and industry.

Neighborhood Book Club 

2019 - Present

• Founded a local book club, initially for my friends, and later for all the teenagers of my neighborhood.
• Prepared a monthly book calendar for the club, combining trending, relevant, and classic books.
• Organized weekly meetings to discuss the progress on the books and our thoughts upon finishing them.

#6. Work Experience (Optional)

If you have some work experience, awesome! Here’s how you’d format it on your high school resume:

• Company Name
• Dates Employed
• Achievements & Responsibilities

Sandwich Artist

Joe’s Sandwich Emporium

06/2020 - 09/2020

• Prepared several types of sandwiches for customers.
• Promoted new products on the menu directly to customers.
• Worked with the cash register.
• Interacted with dozens of customers on a daily basis.

If you don’t have any work experience, though, worry not! You can always replace it with another “Other” section.

Volunteer work, for example, is another great addition to your resume. If you also have any informal work experiences like babysitting or dog walking, you should include them in the section. 

Even if you didn’t get a paycheck out of that work, such experiences show you are skilled and reliable. 

For example, an entry for volunteering experience can look like this:

Educational Team Member

Save the Children

2018 - Present

• Assisted in giving weekly art history and drawing lessons to children at the local orphanage
• Helped organize visits at local museums and art galleries

#7. Language skills

Are you bilingual or can speak another language apart from your native one?

Make sure to mention it on your high school resume!

Wherever you might be applying, you can rest assured that they’re going to appreciate your language skills.

Even if you’re applying for a job in the service or retail industry, proficiency in an extra language or two is going to give you an advantage over other applicants, especially if you write your CEFR level , and can back up the claim in conversation.

Who knows when some foreign customers will come in and your knowledge will come in handy!

With that scenario in mind:

Be mindful not to exaggerate your skills, as lying on your resume can only get you in trouble.

#8. Hobbies & Interests

It might feel like you’re just filling up some space, but actually, the hobbies and interests you list on a resume can be significant, especially if you don’t have a lot of extracurriculars or work experience.

You need something to hint as to who you are as a person and employee, and listing hobbies and interests will do that for you. 

They also show that you are an engaged individual and well-rounded applicant. 

However, you should be selective with what you mention here. 

Listing 6+ hobbies will end up having the opposite effect - it will look like you’re just throwing in some random words, hoping some of them will be impressive. 

A good strategy is to look for hints on the job ad i.e. if they are looking for a team player, mentioning a team sport as one of your hobbies is a great idea. 

Keep in mind, though, that you should also avoid hobbies that don’t add to your profile as a candidate.

E.g.: your gaming hobby doesn't make you a better candidate for the role of a sales manager.

4 Free High School Resume Templates

So we’re all done with theory at this point. 

There’s one thing left for you to do: sit down and start preparing your resume. 

To help you with that, we’ve gathered 4 free resume templates , perfect for a high school resume. 

All you have to do is pick the ones you like best & get started with your resume!

#1. Simple Resume Template

This versatile template works for all kinds of applicants - from those with plenty to those with zero work experience. 

The neutral colors emphasize information over flashiness and the structure is easy to follow.

#2. Professional Resume Template

This next template is an all-time favorite of ours. 

Unlike the first template, the Professional one is formatted into two columns. It’s simple, yet stands out with its blue accent color (which you can change into any color you like). 

#3. Modern Resume Template

The Modern template adds something more to the traditional resume look. There is a faded design in the background and some of the sections are boxed by large brackets.

It’s a template that stands out without being too loud or wild. 

#4. Creative Resume Template

If you’re applying for a position in a creative field (marketing, design, etc.), this is the template for you. 

It uses accent colors and has a bold header that makes a statement. 

High School Resume Example

As important as picking the right template is, the content of the resume is what’s going to seal the deal. 

Here’s one example of a high school student resume, so you can get a clearer idea of what it should look like!

High School Resume FAQ

If you still have some questions regarding your high school resume, check out the FAQ and our answers below:

1. How can I write a high school resume with no work experience?

As a high school student, it’s more than normal for you to have no work experience. This shouldn’t scare you. 

There’s a lot of activities you can add to your resume that can substitute work experience.

Extracurricular activities, like participation in school clubs, projects, and gigs, are a great indicator of your skills and personality. Any informal work experiences should also be mentioned.

As long as you are showing the recruiter that you are capable of doing the job, your resume will be just fine without a work experience section.

2. How long should a high school resume be?

When it comes to high school resumes, the answer is undebatable: one page. 

A 2018 eye-tracking study showed that recruiters spend about 7 seconds skimming a resume before deciding whether to discard it or not. 

A 2-page resume will be simply excessive. 

Heck, even if you’re a professional with 10 years of work experience, we’d still recommend sticking to 1 page.

For more on resume length best practices, check out our article.

3. What’s the best way to make a high school resume?

An important and time-consuming part of making a resume is getting the formatting right. 

This means meticulously editing a Word or Google doc in order to get the right typeface, font size , line spacing, margins, etc.

What we’re getting at here is, if you’re making your resume manually, it can take you hours…

And then you make a tiny change on your layout, and your resume starts spilling into the second page!

Want to save time and effort?

Just use a resume builder ! The formatting is done for you, and all YOU have to do is fill in the resume!

Key Takeaways

That pretty much covers all you need to know about writing a high school no-experience resume . 

Quite simple and doable, right?

Finally, here’s a recap of what you should keep in mind when writing your high school resume:

• Instead of work experience, talk about extracurriculars like school clubs, personal projects, or gigs.
• Use sections like education, hobbies & interests, and languages to emphasize your skills and give an idea of your personality.
• Grab the recruiter’s attention with a concise resume objective that clearly highlights your top skills and career goals.
• Keep your resume at a maximum of 1 page.

And finally, good luck with your job search!

Related Resume Examples

• No Experience Resume
• Internship Resume
• College Resume
• Research Assistant Resume
• Students and Graduates Resume
• Teacher Resume

Suggested readings:

• The Complete Guide to Remote Work [W/ Tips & Tricks]
• 101+ Achievements to List On Your Resume [In 2024]
• The Ultimate Guide to Job Hunt - Land Your Next Job in 2024

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High School Student resume examples & templates

Include your contact information

Make use of a summary, outline your work experience or extracurriculars, include the relevant key skills that make you a great employee, detail your education & relevant certifications, pick the right resume layout and design for a high school student resume, great first jobs, high school student resume, text only.

Congratulations! You've decided to take your first steps toward getting a job. Chances are this is your first high school student resume. You may not realize it, but you already have some accomplishments and achievements that will make your high school student resume shine. 

This high school student resume example and writing guide will show you how to capitalize on your experience, skills and knowledge even if you've never held a "real" job!

Resume guide for a high school student resume

Landing your first job can feel daunting, but Resume.io is here to help. Even if you're just starting out, our collection of 350+ resume examples and writing guides (like the one you are reading), along with professional resume templates, a resume builder tool and expert advice, can help you craft the perfect resume with ease.

This writing guide, along with the corresponding high school resume examples, will show you how to capitalize on your experience, skills, and knowledge even if you've never held a "real" job! These are the topics we'll cover.

How to write a high school student resume

Choosing the right resume format for a high school student.

• How to add your contact information
• Using summaries
• Listing education and relevant experience
• Picking the right resume design/layout
• What the entry-level market looks like, and what salary you can expect

Let’s get started! 

Lack of work experience need not stop you from creating an impressive high school student resume! Generally, it should be structured to include the following key sections: 

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

We’ll be taking a closer look at each of these resume components after covering some general considerations.

Optimize your high school student resume!

Employers receive hundreds of high school resumes for each open position. They don’t have time to look through them all, so they use ATS software to do the initial sorting. That's why most employers now use applicant tracking systems (ATS). 

This means you have to know how these algorithm-based systems work and how to get your high school resume past the digital filter. Employers program the software to screen for certain skills and attributes reflected in keywords and phrases. 

The ATS scans resumes on that basis, and then scores and ranks them. Your resume will only make the cut if it is in the top-ranking range. 

Unless you already have some work experience, the most commonly used chronological format may not be suitable for structuring your high school student resume. 

It’s the most straightforward way for job candidates to organize their experience and qualifications below employer headings and dates, in order from most recent to earliest.

But for high school students or recent graduates with little or nothing to list in a traditional employment history section, other resume formats can be ideal. The format you choose should depend on the type of job and industry, and how best to present yourself as an ideal match. 

In cases where specialized knowledge and skills, and possibly extracurricular activities, are relevant to prospective employers, a functional resume may be your best bet. It offers greater flexibility to emphasize your most relevant strengths up front in a section labelled “Experience.” 

A hybrid, or combination, resume format offers even more versatility. You can integrate chronological and functional elements in the most applicable manner, and perhaps even put your education section higher up on the page to emphasize your school interests and accomplishments. 

Let us do the hard work for you! 

Check out the many resume templates in our resume builder and choose the format that best suits your situation. We have a wide variety available as resume examples .

A distinctive resume header sets you apart from other candidates by ensuring your resume gets noticed for the right reasons. An eye-pleasing design will make it inviting to read, while also readily identifying who your resume belongs to and how you can be reached for an interview. Here's what yours needs to include: 

• Full name & title. Simply include your first and last name, along with the role for which you are applying. Tailor this each time.
• Professional email address. Employers won't think highly of an address like [email protected] . Your best bet is the golden standard format of first name (or initials) + last name: [email protected] or [email protected] .
• Phone number. Include a number where you can be reached. You can also include when you are available at the given number.
• Location. You don't need to include your full address . However, you should highlight your location — i.e. your state and city.
• LinkedIn. Ensure that your LinkedIn profile is active and highlights your expertise. If that is the case, you can include it on your high school student resume.

Don’t include:

• Date of birth. This move could lead to age discrimination .
• Personal details. Relationship status, social security number, passport number , etc.

Mary Smith  Barista  [email protected] 0811 992 1182 New York, New York

High School Student  [email protected] 0811 992 1182 Apartment 22, Victoria Building, New York In a relationship.

Describing yourself can be tough, but don't hold back. You have many of the qualities employers want. Here's where your personality can shine. 

The 2-3 sentence resume summary (also known as the profile or personal statement ) is the first section, directly under your contact information. It allows you to exhibit a bit of personality while you explain the qualities that will make you a great employee. 

Here are some sample questions to ask yourself when writing your summary:

• What makes me a good student, friend, teammate, family member?
• Which of my skills or personal qualities have helped me in school? Am I organized, creative, responsible?
• What activities, projects, and interests could I describe that translate into job skills?

You can find an adaptable high school student resume examples summary below:

Resourceful and dedicated high school student with excellent analytical skills and a demonstrated commitment to learning. Strong organizational abilities with proven success managing multiple academic projects . Well-rounded and professional team player dedicated to continuing academic pursuits at a collegiate level.

Driven and proactive high school student with top-notch time management and organizational skills. Previous experience working with CareKittens charity as a volunteer over two summers. Committed to supporting important causes, furthering education, and learning while on the job.

Before you give up on the work history section, don't forget that your high school experience includes a wealth of opportunities to draw from. 

Give yourself credit for jobs you've done for classes or community service points as a high school student. All positions of responsibility count! Maybe you have had a paying job. If so, that's great! Here are some examples to consider: 

• Voluntary experience. Whether you have volunteered at a charity or helped out at an event, now is the time to shout about it. Focus on your transferable skills here.
• Part-time jobs. Did you have a part-time job during high school? If so, you should include it as part of your work experience. You may have worked in a store, in a restaurant, or even babysat for the neighbors.
• Teams and clubs. If you don't have any work experience but are part of a sports team or club, you should add this here. Being a team-player is considered to be a high-level skill, and so it's an easy way to wow the hiring manager.

Jobs or work experiences to consider listing

Any volunteer work or projects for social or community groups are a great addition to your high school student resume, whether in the past or continuing now. 

List each item in your experience section as any other job applicant would in the conventional employment history format —  in reverse chronological order. That means you start with the current or most recent listing and work backward to the earliest, by date.

Look for job referrals! Ask friends who already have a job where you're interested in working for a referral. Some companies have referral programs that reward current employees when their referral is hired. Employers like referrals, because they eliminate some of the unknowns of hiring. Few people would recommend a person they did not think could do the job.

Here is an example of an experience listing suitable for a high school student resume.

Sales Associate at B&B Booksllers, New York  September 2022 - Present 

• Feed animals and made sure they had access to fresh water at all times.
• Answer customer questions and reported issues in person or by phone.
• Help customers select products that best fit the needs of their pet.
• Keep the selling floor clean and maintained neat and orderly product displays.
• Maintain accurate work logs.
• Recognize for my reliability and zero absence work record.

How to write a high school student resume with no experience

Let's say you have no direct work experience on your resume . One way to approach this conundrum is to focus on either voluntary experience or your extracurriculars.  As a high school student, you may be putting a lot of time and effort into extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment to showing up and participating. These may be especially relevant if they illustrate an interest related to the job you are applying for. 

Creating a master list of your extracurricular activities is a worthwhile exercise in its own right. It can reinforce your choices of which skills and personal attributes to highlight in other resume sections. It may also clarify the type of job you want, and lead you to consider targeting your job search to a field that fits your extracurricular interests. 

Any master list — be it for skills, activities or jobs — can be useful for your own reference and convenience. It’s a visual tool that highlights what you are looking for at a glance, then makes it easy to cherry-pick the most appropriate resume samples for your current resume version.

If you are a go-getter who participates in multiple activities outside of school and work, perhaps associated with accomplishments , consider adding a separate resume section for extracurricular activities. 

These show your talents, determination, and time-management skills . This is another way to inject a little personality into your resume. 

Science Honor Society, Callaway High School, Jackson  2019 - Present  National Honors Society, Callaway High School, Jackson  2019 - Present  Participated in several volunteer activities, including:

• Built a house for Habitat for Humanity
• Collected supplies Stewpot Community Services
• Organized food drive & fundraiser for Cascades Humane Society   

Volunteer, Cascades Humane Society Jackson  Aug 2019 - Aug 2020 

• Performed various administrative and clerical tasks as needed.
• Served as a support for the entire office staff.
• Monitored & observed animals for signs of illness & reported symptoms to superiors.
• Created online pet profiles for potential adopters.
• Collected and recorded adoption fees.

Employers willing to hire inexperienced workers are looking for signs of responsibility, initiative, and desire to learn.  What you do need are soft skills, also known as interpersonal, social or people skills. Examples include communication — including listening, courtesy and ability to take direction — as well as dependability, punctuality and being well-organized . 

Of course, hard skills have a place on your resume too. these are pragmatic skills necessary or valuable for certain jobs, tools or programs or sciences. Examples for a high school student might include computer programming or child care expertise. 

With ATS likely to be scanning your high school student resume (unless you are applying to work for an individual or at a very small company, you need to know what keywords will help get your resume in the hands of hiring managers.  Respondents to a Society for Human Resource Management survey ranked these as the most important skills for entry-level employees:

• Dependability and reliability (think being at work on time or fulfilling promises) — a whopping 97% said these were a must!
• Integrity — 87%.
• Respect (towards clients and co-workers) — 84%.
• Teamwork — 83%.

You probably have all of these skills to one degree or another. So, make sure you list them on your high school student resume. 

Check out a high school student resume skills sample below.

• Excellent Customer Service Skills
• Strong Organizational Skills
• Advanced Computer System Skills

Think of it this way: your career right now is your experience as a high school student. It's probably more important than your employment history if you have any work experience at all, so treat the education section of your high school student resume as a higher priority. 

Expand on your high school "career" achievements and focuses, starting with a list of classes that are relevant to the job you seek. Looking to work with children? Highlight your early childhood education class. Here are some examples of relevant certificates : 

• Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) : If you undertook this certificate while in high school, you don't want to leave it out. It shows that you have digital media skills, which is a real asset if you are applying for jobs within the creative fields.
• Certified Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) : Most hiring managers will expect you to be confident using Microsoft Office. However, if you happen to have this certificate, you can show that you are a cut above the rest.
• Google IT Support Professional Certificate: Interested in a career in IT? You might find that having this Google-certified qualification gives you the gravitas you need.
• Food Safety Certification : Hospitality roles are highly popular among high school students and graduates. If you want to show that you are serious about this role, you should let the hiring manager know that you have a Food Safety Certificate.
• Language proficiency: Speaking a second language is always going to be a valuable skill. Let the hiring manager know if you can and provide details of your certificates.

Also, mention any accolades and honors, or even your grade point average (SAT/ACT/GPA Scores) if they shine. Should your scores be high, you can elevate your resume above the competition. You can also use the education section to describe projects you are proud of and how they reflect your skills.

Choose a structure that works for you! Your resume sections do not have to be in the same order as they are listed in this high school student resume sample. Put the section you think is most important and impressive first and go from there. Just remember, the summary must remain at the top. 

High Honors, Callaway High School Jackson  Aug 2019 - Present 

• Academic High Honor Roll 2015 - 2017
• Presidential Award for Academic Excellence 2016

Are you itching to show off your artistic bent here? You may be tempted to try standing out from the crowd with a strikingly colorful high school student CV design. 

But unless you are applying for a graphic design job or other position in a creative field, it's in your best interest to keep the look of your resume simple, streamlined, and polished. Strive for a first impression that's as legible and inviting to read as it is eye-catching .

Simple doesn't rule out creative choices when it comes to the layout, design, and formatting of your high school student CV.

Why use a template?

Unless you've already developed a great eye for graphic design and the computer skills to match, a resume template may be your best bet to create an eye-pleasing resume without much difficulty.

Resume.io offers four categories of resume templates, any of them suitable for a high school student to personalize for a professional and beautiful result. Start by choosing one of these style categories before drilling down to select the right layout: simple, professional, modern or creative. 

One benefit of using a resume template is that you can avoid formatting errors that make your resume look sloppy or incomplete. Using the Resume.io builder tool makes every step of creating your resume a breeze. 

Don't lose your hard work!  If you are cutting and pasting your resume into a computer program, first save it as a text file to eliminate odd formatting marks.

Personalization

As emphasized already, the rule of thumb for resume layout, design and formatting is: keep it clean and organized! Working with one of our templates and the builder tool takes away any guesswork. Yet, you still have room to make your high school student resume stylishly unique. 

Contrary to popular wisdom, Times New Roman is not the only professional-looking font that will serve you well. Try Garamond, Georgia, Helvetica, Cambria, or Calibri. 

If your resume template of choice uses a color , feel free to change it. But resist any urge to add more color. One small splash is all you need. And don't use a color other than black for your text. The rule of thumb for layouts is: keep it clean and organized!

Job market and outlook

Many high school students ask themselves, "How will I get a job without experience?" Guess what: Everybody who is now working started out in a first job without having any employment history. You have to start somewhere. A little time and research can be all it takes to find a job that adds to your skills list while putting some money in your pocket!

You have already made the decision to look for work. Now, with Resume.io's collection of tools at your fingertips, we'll walk you through everything you need in the first steps to success. It all starts with getting your foot in the door. 

More than half of young people have jobs! 

Thinking of getting a first job? You're not alone. As of July 2023, 55% of people aged between 16 and 24 had jobs. Often enough, these roles are part-time and fit around the young person's studies. Look for a flexible option that suits your schedule.

Being in demand means you have choices. Your first job probably won't be the job of your dreams , but you can target work that will lead you in the right direction for your future. This can apply in almost any type of work that high school students are typically hired to do.

About one-quarter of working teens have jobs in food preparation or service, according to BLS data. And there is plenty of room to be selective and forward-looking in this industry. Even if you end up at a fast food restaurant, you can choose which one it is. 

With a little research, you can pick a company that offers management training, flexible hours or other benefits that appeal to you. More than 10% of working high school students have jobs in these fields:

• Sales and sales support
• Office and administrative support
• Personal care and service.

This does not mean you are restricted to these industries, but they are examples of areas you're likely to be qualified for. 

Resourceful and dedicated High School student with excellent analytical skills and a demonstrated commitment to providing great customer service. Strong organizational abilities with proven successes managing multiple academic projects and volunteering events. Well-rounded and professional team player dedicated to continuing academic pursuits at a collegiate level.

Employment history

Key takeaways for a high school student resume

An effective high school student resume can make finding your first job much easier. So, what are you waiting for? Employers understand your lack of experience and instead are interested in the soft skills you are likely to have. Highlight these soft skills, along with any hard (practical) skills you have, in the summary section of your high school student resume.

It doesn't end there. You should also use keywords that automated screening software will likely scan and score for. Remember, education has been your “career” up until now, so leverage your school experience when writing this section of your resume.

Use our resume builder to browse simple resume samples , then personalize the template that speaks to you. Make sure your resume writing is error-free and looks amazing.

Beautiful ready-to-use resume templates

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15 Impressive Resume Examples for High School Students

Put your best foot forward.

Many professionals struggle to write a strong resume, even after years in the workforce. It’s not surprising, therefore, that it’s even harder for those with limited work experience. That’s why we put together this list of resume examples for high school students. They need it!

According to a Pew Research Center analysis of data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics , teens are experiencing the highest employment rate since 2008. In May 2022, 5.5 million U.S. teens ages 16 to 19 held jobs, and by summer 2023, analysts predict “that the share of 16- to 19-year-olds working this season will rise to 33.6 percent, from 32.7 percent last year.” Use these templates, which are perfect for students applying f or jobs, college admissions, or scholarships, to edge out the competition!

What To Include on High School Students’ Resumes

When you don’t have years of work experience to showcase, what should you include on your resume? Here are some ways to put your best foot forward.

• Highlight academic strengths.
• Mention extracurricular activities including clubs, sports, and volunteerism.
• List any honors, awards, or other achievements.
• Emphasize leadership experience.
• Share projects or gigs, including any internships.
• Include a “Skills” section and list computer skills, soft skills, or language skills.
• If your hobbies and/or interests are relevant to a job, include those as well. 

Resume Examples for High School Students

High school student resume templates and examples.

These helpful resume templates and examples are perfect for high school students trying to land their first job or internship. This resource shares tips on how to make a great impression. 

Resume with no experience: first job examples

Trying to land a job with no work experience? No problem! This template offers an ideal resume for high school student applicants who are entering the workforce for the first time.  

Resume for a part-time job

For students looking for a part-time job, their high school resume needs to reflect their availability. This sample offers guidance for creating a resume that sends the right message. 

Experienced high school student resume

Multiple work experience examples should be listed on an experienced high school student resume, so you might need to change the layout to make everything fit nicely.

McDonald’s resume

While this resume specifically highlights McDonald’s, it could easily be modified for any fast-food chain. The important thing is that students’ work history includes customer service and interpersonal skills and the ability to take orders, prepare food, accept payments, keep a restaurant clean, and more. 

Customer service resume

Hiring supervisors are aware of and anticipate the fact that you may not have much work experience as a high school student, but this template will help tailor your resume to the demands specified in the customer service job description.

Camp counselor resume

If you’ve ever worked as a camp counselor (or similar leadership role), you likely have a well-rounded set of skills. This resource provides tips and examples of how to list your achievements and abilities in a way to stand out above the competition. 

High school student sales resume

Writing a high school student sales resume can be challenging, especially if you have little professional experience. One solid strategy is having numbers on your side. This great template will help you get started!

Athlete resume

Depending on the student, athletics can make up a huge part of their high school experience. Should athletics be mentioned on a resume? If it’s relevant to the job or if a student was a stand-out athlete, gained leadership skills, or was recognized for their great attitude and/or outstanding abilities, this guide will show you how to include it.

High school graduate resume

Once students graduate, they’ll either be continuing their education or heading into the workforce (or both!). This great, straightforward high school resume is perfect when applying for their first real job. 

College resume for high school students

The future is bright, which is why high school students need to focus on creating a college admissions resume that will really make an impression. These tips and samples offer clear guidance on how to make a college application truly shine. 

High school student office worker resume

It’s alright if a high school office worker resume isn’t packed with noteworthy achievements. Instead, list any project that highlights your leadership qualities or relevant skills you’ve acquired along the way!

Scholarship resume

You already know that college tuition is expensive. There are plenty of scholarships out there, but the competition is fierce. This high school resume template focuses on academic achievements while highlighting skills, professional experience, and career objectives to help students stand out from the crowd. 

High school student music resume

Of course you want to highlight any musical work you’ve done, whether it’s in school or professionally. Also highlight lessons, achievements, and interests that showcase your love and passion for music. This template will give you a good idea of where to begin!

Internship resume

It can be tough to find a decent internship as a college student, which is why high school students should start looking before they graduate. These types of jobs might not come with a paycheck, but the rewards are immeasurable in terms of experience. This template offers tips for writing a strong resume for an internship position. 

Do you have more great resume examples for high school students? Share them in the comments below.

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10 High School Student No Experience Resume Summary Examples

Stepping into the world of work can be thrilling and nerve-wracking all at once, especially for high school students without any job experience.

Crafting a resume might seem like a challenge, but it’s your ticket to landing that first exciting opportunity.

This guide aims to ease your worries and arm you with powerful examples to create a standout resume summary.

Top 10 High School Student No Experience Resume Summary Examples

How to Write a High School Student Resume Summary With No Experience?

1. focus on education.

Emphasize your current educational status, favorite subjects, and any notable academic projects undertaken.

2. Include Volunteer Work

Mention any volunteer experiences that highlight your work ethic and desire to contribute to the community.

3. Leverage Soft Skills

Showcase crucial soft skills like leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability that you’ve gained through various activities.

4. Use a Professional Tone

Write your summary in a mature, professional tone to convey your readiness for a work environment.

5. Customize for the Job

Tailor your resume summary to reflect the skills and qualities most relevant to the job you are applying for.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what should i focus on in my resume summary as a high school student with no job experience.

Highlight your academic achievements, participation in school clubs or sports, volunteer work, and any relevant skills you have acquired. Emphasize qualities like reliability, teamwork, and willingness to learn.

2. How can I make my resume summary appealing to potential employers?

Showcase your enthusiasm and commitment by mentioning any school projects or leadership roles you’ve undertaken. Be specific about your contributions and how they reflect the skills needed for the job.

3. Can I include hobbies and interests in my resume summary?

Yes, including hobbies and interests is a great way to showcase your personality and unique skills. Choose hobbies that are relevant to the job or demonstrate desirable attributes like creativity, teamwork, or dedication.

4. What type of skills should I mention in my resume summary?

Mention transferable skills. These include communication, problem-solving, and time management. Also mention any technical skills relevant to the job you are applying for. These skills can be gained through school activities, personal projects, or volunteering.

5. How long should my resume summary be?

Your resume summary should be concise, ideally 2-3 sentences. Focus on the most important aspects of your background. Ensure these align with the job you are applying for. Make a compelling case for why you’re a good fit.

These 10 high school student resume summary examples are excellent resources. They help you create a compelling summary that highlights your skills and potential despite having no prior work experience. Implement these tips and make a strong impression on employers, increasing your chances of securing your desired job opportunity.

• 10 High School Student Resume Objective Examples
• 21 High School Teacher Resume Objective Examples
• Sample Recommendation Letter for High School Student
• Recommendation Letter for High School Student Entering College

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How to Write a Resume for High School Student First Job

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Written By Miranda Zavala   |   High School , Resources   |   0 Comments   | June 10, 2024

Post Views: 75

Creating the perfect resume for your first job as a high school student might seem tough. By following some simple advice, you can build a strong resume that makes employers notice you. You need to focus on your unique skills when creating your resume for high school student first job.

I remember my first job hunt. I was a nervous wreck, wondering how I could compete with all those experienced candidates. But then I realized something: I had unique skills and experiences that set me apart. 

Alright, let’s jump in. You might even enjoy yourself along the way.

Table Of Contents:

Contact information, objective or summary statement, work experience, volunteer experience, extracurricular activities, resume with no experience, part-time job resume, experienced high school student resume, mcdonald’s resume, customer service resume, camp counselor resume, use action verbs, highlight relevant skills, keep it concise, proofread carefully, what if i don’t have much job experience, should i include my gpa on my resume, do i need a cover letter, what skills should i focus on, what to include on a high school student’s resume for their first job.

Crafting a high school student resume for your first job can feel overwhelming. But don’t stress. Even if you’re a high school student with zero work experience, you still have plenty to offer potential employers.

Figuring out what to include and how to show off your strengths is key. In this post, we will break down the must-have parts of a great high school resume, with lots of resume examples for inspiration.

First things first: make sure employers can easily reach you. Include your full name, phone number, email address, and city/state at the top of your high school student resume.

Double-check that your email is professional (think [email protected], not [email protected]).

Creating a professional email apart from your school email or personal email will work great for college applications and even for future job en

Next up: a brief, punchy intro to grab the hiring manager’s attention. As a high school student, an objective statement is your best bet. In 1-2 sentences, state the job you’re seeking and the skills/traits that make you a great fit.

For example: “Hardworking high school student seeking a part-time retail position. Eager to apply my strong communication and organizational skills in a customer-facing role.”

Since you’re still in school, education should be a key focus of your resume for high school student first job. List your high school name, expected graduation date, GPA (if above 3.0), and any honors/AP classes.

If you’ve taken courses related to the job you want, definitely include those.

Now, for the section that stresses most high school students: work experience, But guess what? Babysitting, mowing lawns, and helping with the family business all count.

List any paid jobs or ongoing side gigs, with bullet points highlighting your duties and achievements. No formal work experience yet? No worries – we’ll cover some other options next.

Volunteer work is an awesome way to build skills, show initiative, and boost your high school student resume. Include any volunteer gigs, charity work, or community service you’ve done. Aim for bullet points that illustrate the value you added or relevant skills you developed.

This is your moment to shine by sharing what you’re passionate about. Are you active on a sports team? Do you belong to any clubs or play an instrument?

These activities are all fair game. Talk about leadership roles you’ve held and any special accomplishments. Even skills like teamwork and technical abilities are worth mentioning since they can translate well into job settings.

Wrap up your high school resume with a dynamic skills section. Focus on the job you are aiming for and list relevant abilities like foreign language skills, software knowledge, or essential soft skills such as teamwork and time management.

The best resume format for high school students is one that clearly showcases your strengths, passions, and potential – even if you have limited work experience. By thoughtfully including these key sections, you’ll be well on your way to landing that exciting first job and impressing those job seekers.

High School Student Resume Examples

Looking at strong examples is a great way to make your high school student resume shine. By observing how others showcase their skills and experiences, you can find inspiration for crafting the perfect resume that stands out from the crowd.

This section offers various high school student resume samples for different needs. If it’s your first time applying for work or you’re going after something more challenging, these straightforward resumes will guide you.

When I was crafting my first high school resume, I remember staring at a blank page and thinking “I have nothing to put.”

But that’s rarely true – with a little creativity, most high school students can find relevant experiences and skills to include, even if they’ve never held jobs.

If you’re a high school student working on your resume and don’t have formal job experience, highlight volunteer work, extracurricular activities, academic achievements, and soft skills like communication or problem-solving. Emphasize where you’ve taken responsibility or made an impact in other areas of life.

If you’re seeking a part-time job, like retail or food service, highlight any customer service experience you have. This could be from a previous part-time gig, but also from volunteering, school projects, or even babysitting.

For example, I once helped my friend draft a resume sample for a grocery store job high school student. We focused on her volunteer role greeting visitors at a local festival and her experience collaborating on group projects in class – both showed off her friendly demeanor and teamwork skills.

It is also important to use the job description to your advantage. When reviewing a job description be sure you have the same skills they look for and include them in your resume under the skills section.

Some high schoolers have quite extensive work experience – whether from summer jobs, student internship roles, or starting their own small businesses. If you’re one of these go-getters, then your high school student resume should definitely focus on your work history.

One of my past high school students kicked off a thriving dog-walking business in her local area. We showcased on her resume how she mastered marketing, customer service, managing time efficiently, and pet care through this venture.

Applying for a job at McDonald’s or another fast food chain? Emphasize your ability to work in a fast-paced environment, handle multiple tasks at once, and provide friendly customer service. Any experience in food service or cash handling is a major plus.

I remember helping my younger cousin with his McDonald’s resume. Even though he’d never had a “real” job before, we highlighted his experience helping with a busy concession stand at school football games.

The skills he’d gained there – working quickly, handling money, and dealing with cranky customers – were super relevant for a sales associate role.

If you’re interested in a customer service job, like working at a call center or retail store, your resume template should showcase your communication and problem-solving skills. Think about times you’ve helped resolve conflicts, handled tricky situations, or gone above and beyond to assist someone.

A high school student I mentored had an amazing summer gig at the local library where she volunteered. She got really good at assisting people in finding books, fielding various questions, and even dealing with unhappy guests now and then. Those abilities were ideal for jobs that involve interacting directly with customers.

Applying to be a camp counselor? Your high school student resume should include leadership, responsibility, and a love for working with kids.

Highlight any experience you have leading groups, planning activities, or supervising children. If you’re CPR certified or have other relevant training, definitely include that too.

One of my all-time favorite high school student resume examples was from a girl who’d been a “mother’s helper” for years, assisting neighborhood families with childcare and errands. She described planning educational games, preparing healthy snacks, and mediating sibling squabbles – all fantastic examples of her childcare abilities.

There are plenty of high school student resume examples that can help you get started. By checking out how others list their skills and experiences, you’ll pick up tips on making your own stand out to hiring managers.

Customize your resume for each role, use strong action verbs, and don’t forget to proofread before sending it off. With an impressive resume ready to go, you’re set to dive into the job market.

Even if you lack formal work experience, you can still create a strong resume by highlighting your education, volunteer work, extracurricular activities, and relevant skills. Tailor each section to the job you’re applying for and use real-world examples to show off your strengths.

Tips for Creating a Standout High School Student Resume

One of the most important tips for creating a standout resume for a high school student’s first job is to tailor it to the specific position you’re applying for. I’ve seen firsthand how much of a difference this can make.

When I was hiring for a part-time sales associate position, the resumes that stood out were the ones that highlighted relevant skills like customer service and teamwork. They didn’t just list generic achievements or classes.

Another key tip is to use strong action verbs in your experience descriptions. Instead of saying “responsible for stocking shelves,” write “efficiently stocked shelves and managed inventory.”

Highlighting these traits paints you as a motivated, results-focused collaborator. Your high school student resume becomes way more engaging this way.

If you are applying for a customer service role, highlight skills that matter most. Show off how well you communicate and solve problems effectively.

For a more technical position, you could emphasize your proficiency with certain software programs or your quick learning skills. The key skills section of your high school resume is valuable real estate – make every word count.

It’s also crucial to keep your resume for a high school student’s first job concise. Aim for one page and use a clear, easy-to-read resume font and formatting.

Bullet points are your friend – they help keep things skimmable. If you find yourself going over one page, see what you can cut. Each piece of information should be essential and relevant.

Finally, before hitting “send” on your high school student resume, be sure to proofread it carefully. I recommend proofreading it multiple times and even having others look over it. A resume with typos or formatting issues can quickly land in the “no” pile.

Ask a teacher, guidance counselor, or parent to review it as well for an extra set of eyes. With careful attention to these tips, your high school resume will be in excellent shape to help you land that first job. Remember, a standout resume is within reach – it just takes some strategic thinking and attention to detail.

Frequently Asked Questions About High School Student Resumes

As a high school student crafting your resume, you probably have a lot of questions. Don’t worry – you’re not alone. Here are answers to some of the most common questions I hear from job seekers about high school student resumes.

Many high school students haven’t had formal jobs yet, and that is totally fine. Your resume can still shine by including your volunteer experiences, involvement in clubs or sports teams, and skills picked up through high school student internships or class assignments.

Make sure to talk about your transferable skills and how they fit into a job setting. For instance, if you’ve been in charge of a club or sports team, you can point out your leadership qualities and ability to work well with others.

It depends. If your GPA is strong (3.5 or above), it could be worth including, especially if the job you’re applying for is academically focused (like tutoring).

But if your GPA is lower, it’s probably best to leave it off and focus on other strengths.

When building your high school resume, focus on showcasing skills and experiences you gained outside the classroom. Keep the education section short just include your school’s name and when you expect to graduate.

A cover letter might not be mandatory, but I strongly suggest including one with your high school student resume. It’s an opportunity to let them see who you are beyond grades and activities, share why this position interests you, and argue convincingly that you’re the right person for it.

Keep your cover letter concise (one-page max) and tailor it to the specific job. Use specific examples to illustrate your technical skills and experiences. Don’t forget to proofread it just as carefully as your resume.

As a high school student with limited work experience, some of the most valuable skills to highlight on your resume are:

• Communication
• Problem-solving
• Time management
• Adaptability
• Foreign language skills

If you have technical skills, like knowing how to use specific software programs, definitely mention those. Highlighting these abilities can show employers that you’re ready to hit the ground running.

Remember, your high school resume is a chance to sell yourself to potential employers. By focusing on your strengths and tailoring your resume to each job, you’ll be well on your way to landing that first position. Don’t be afraid to highlight what makes you unique – that’s what will help you stand out from the crowd.

To make your high school resume stand out, tailor it to the job. Use action verbs and highlight relevant skills.

Keep it concise with clear formatting and bullet points. Proofread carefully before sending.

Creating a resume for high school student first job isn’t so bad after all. By highlighting your unique skills, experiences, and achievements, you can create a resume that stands out from the crowd.

Remember, employers aren’t expecting you to have a ton of work experience. They’re looking for enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and a positive attitude. Show them that you’ve got what it takes, and you’ll be well on your way to landing that first job.

So go forth and create that killer resume. The world is your oyster, and your first job is just around the corner.

Student Hires offers micro internships for high school students to learn a multitude of life skills. Some include creating resumes, conducting mock interviews, and even working within the community. 

Whether you’re a high school or college student looking for work experience there is help for everyone. Join the mission today by getting involved with Student Hires .

Last Updated on  June 10, 2024 by  Miranda Zavala

About  Miranda Zavala

Miranda Zavala is currently a student at California State University of San Bernardino earning her degree in Design with a concentration in marketing. Miranda enjoys inspiring students, and helping them find their passion just like her.

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How to create a high school student resumé

Leaving high school is an exciting milestone, whether you’re continuing your studies or headed into the workforce. As you start applying for jobs (or apprenticeships or university placements), you might have noticed the importance of a certain document: your resumé.

Even though you may not have any experience behind you, a resumé for a high school student is an essential tool. It provides a snapshot of your potential, showcasing your skills, experiences and interests . It’s a great way to paint a picture of who you are and what you can offer an employer. We'll take you through the steps of creating a resumé for school leavers and students that will leave a lasting first impression.

Purpose of a high school student resumé

Why does a high school student need a resumé? A resumé can help bridge the gap between your current school achievements and your future goals. Here are a few reasons why it’s worth spending time putting your resumé together.

Applying to university

University, or further education of some form, is the next step for many school graduates. Your resumé provides a great overview of your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and any other relevant experiences. It’s a great way to showcase your strengths, interests and more, which may be vital if there’s strong competition for the degree or university you want to get into.

Applying to jobs

A resumé is essential when entering the workforce, whether you’re looking for part-time , summer or internship positions. It allows employers to gain a snapshot of your skills and suitability for the job. The resumé should highlight any relevant experience, such as volunteer work, school projects and leadership roles in clubs or sports teams.

Applying to scholarships

A resumé helps you stand out when applying for scholarships, offering an overview of your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, community service and any awards or accolades. Your resumé should emphasise any strengths or achievements that meet the scholarship's criteria.

Components of a high school student resumé

While you might not have extensive professional work experience behind you as a high school student, creating an effective resumé all comes down to what you include to put your best self forward. 

Profile summary

The profile summary is a brief introduction of who you are and what you offer. Its main purpose is to capture the reader's attention and make them want to learn more about you. Think of it as your personal ‘elevator pitch’, summarising your strengths and experiences that are relevant to the opportunity you’re applying for.

• Brief introduction:  mention your current educational status (e.g., “A recent high school graduate...”).
• Key qualifications: highlight any qualifications you have that make you a strong candidate. If you have a school certificate or secondary score, mention it here. Be sure to include your highest school level completed or qualification achieved.
• Relevant experiences or achievements: include any relevant experiences or achievements that align with the job or opportunity. This could be leadership roles in school clubs, participation in sports teams or volunteer work.
• Personal traits: add a few personal traits that make you memorable. These could be characteristics like being a quick learner or a creative thinker, or having good time management skills and a positive attitude.

Experience section

The experience section is where you can list your work history, including part-time jobs, internships, volunteer work and extracurricular activities. It’s an opportunity to provide some concrete examples of your skills and abilities in action. Here’s what to include:

• Relevant duties and skills: for each experience listed, include a brief description of your duties and the skills you developed. Be specific about your responsibilities and try to quantify your achievements where possible (e.g., “Led a team of 5 in organising school charity events”).
• Highlights and achievements:  mention any significant achievements or highlights during your time in each role. This could include awards, recognitions, or successful projects you contributed to.

As a high school student, you may not have formal work experience . In this case, it's important to mention other types of experience that can demonstrate your skills:

• Volunteer experiences: include any volunteer work you've done, such as community service, involvement in non-profit organisations, or participation in charity events. Describe the role you played and the skills you gained from these experiences.
• Extracurricular experiences:  this includes involvement in sports teams, clubs, student government and other school-related activities. Highlight any leadership roles or significant contributions you made in these activities.

Education details

The education section is an important part of a high school student’s resumé as it provides an indication of your commitment to learning, areas of academic interest and any notable achievements. It often forms the bulk of your qualifications, so it’s important to get right. Here’s what you should include:

• Current school and location: start with the name of your high school and its location (city and state/region).
• Estimated completion date: if you’re still in high school, include your estimated graduation date. This gives the reader an idea of where you are in terms of education level.
• Relevant courses: list any courses that are relevant to the job or opportunity you're applying for. For example, if you're applying for a tech internship, you might include computer science or mathematics courses.
• Academic achievements: mention any academic honours, awards or recognition you’ve received. This includes impressive results in any school challenges or competitions. 

Key skills section

The key skills section is where you can showcase your abilities to paint a picture of your strengths beyond academic achievements and work experiences. It allows you to directly point out the skills you have that align with the opportunity you are applying for. Here are some high school resumé examples of what you can list:

• Organisation : your ability to manage your space, your tasks and keep track of deadlines. 
• Time management:  the ability to efficiently manage your time, prioritise responsibilities and meet deadlines. 
• Communication: both written and verbal communication skills are essential to include. If you can, mention specific communication skills, like writing reports, speeches, podcasts or emails, giving presentations or contacting customers. 
• Public speaking: if you have experience in public speaking, through presentations in class, participating in debate clubs, or MCing events, this is a valuable skill to list. 
• Technical skills: depending on your interests and experiences, you might include skills like proficiency in software or coding languages, or other technical abilities relevant to your field of interest.
• Teamwork:  the ability to work well in a team, collaborate with others and contribute effectively to group projects.
• Problem solving: your ability to identify problems, think critically and come up with effective solutions.

Common mistakes to avoid

When creating a resumé, especially as a high school student, it's easy to make little mistakes  that can take away from your skills. Being aware of these can help you write a more professional resumé. Here are some key pitfalls to avoid:

• Choosing a colourful, busy design: while it might be tempting to make your resumé stand out with colourful designs, it's important to keep it plain, so it’s easy to read.  Tip:  stick to a clean, simple layout with a standard font. Use bolder, larger headings to create clear sections, and use bullet points to organise your information. 
• Not using action verbs:  using passive language can make your achievements seem less impressive. Tip:  start your bullet points with strong action verbs like “managed,” “created,” “led,” or “organised”. This makes your experiences sound more dynamic and impactful.
• Not proofreading:  one of the most common mistakes is submitting a resumé with typos or grammatical errors. Tip: always proofread your resumé multiple times. It can also be helpful to have someone else review it, as they might catch errors you've overlooked.
• Overloading with irrelevant information: it's important to keep your resumé concise and relevant. Tip: tailor your resumé to each application, focusing on experiences and skills that are most relevant to the opportunity. Keep it to one page, highlighting only the most significant points.
• Failing to tailor the resumé: using a generic resumé for every application is a common mistake.  Tip:  customise your resumé for each application. Review the job description or criteria and highlight the experiences and skills that align most closely with them.

Resumé template for high school students

Creating a resumé as a high school student with no work experience can be a bit daunting. However, with the right structure and content, you can still make your resumé eye-catching and memorable. The key is to showcase your skills, achievements and potential. 

Below is a high school student resumé with no work experience template that you can use as a starting point. Highlight your strengths in areas outside of work experience . Focus on what you have accomplished in school, through volunteer work and in extracurricular activities, to present a well-rounded picture of your capabilities. Include any hobbies you have that are relevant to your application. [Your name in a large font] Personal Information [Address] [Phone number] [Email address] [Professional profile/Personal website] (optional)

Objective Statement [Write a brief statement about your career or educational goals and what you hope to achieve in the position you're applying for.]

Education [Name of high school], [city, state/region] Expected Graduation: [month, year] Relevant Courses: [List any courses relevant to the job or field of interest]

Work Experience (if applicable) [Job title], [employer name], [city, state] [Dates of employment]

• [Briefly describe your responsibilities and any achievements. Use action verbs and quantify results when possible.]

Volunteer Experience [Role], [organisation name], [city, state] [Dates of participation]

• [Describe your role and contributions. Highlight any skills developed and achievements.]

Extracurricular Activities [Activity name], [role/position], [school/organisation name] [Dates of participation]

• [Describe your involvement and any notable accomplishments.]
• [Skill 1]: [Brief description or example of how you've demonstrated this skill]
• [Skill 2]: [Brief description or example]
• [Add additional skills as relevant]

Awards and Honours

• [Award/Honour 1], [Year]
• [Award/Honour 2], [Year]
• [Add additional awards/honours as relevant]

Hobbies and Interests (optional)

• [Hobby 1] [Mention any relevant skills]
• [Hobby 2]  [Mention any relevant skills]

References Available upon request.

High school student resumé example

Creating a resumé as a high school student can be tricky if you’ve never had to write a resumé before. To help guide you, this example integrates the key components mentioned above, tailored to a high school student.

Micah Lee Resumé

Personal Information Micah Lee 123 Maple Street, Hometown, State/Region, 1234 Phone: (123) 456-7890 Email: [email protected] Objective Statement Motivated high school senior seeking a part-time position in retail, where I can apply my strong communication skills and dedication to customer service. Eager to learn and contribute to a collaborative team environment.

Education Hometown High School, Hometown, State Expected graduation: June 2025 Relevant courses: English, Social Studies

Work Experience Volunteer, Hometown Community Library ⁠June 2023 - Present

• Assist in organising and cataloguing books.
• Help set up and manage community events and reading programs
• Strong organisational and customer service skills

Extracurricular Activities Member, Hometown High School Debate Team September 2022 - Present

• Participate in debate competitions, honing public speaking and critical thinking skills.
• Collaborate with team members to research topics and develop arguments.
• Organisation: demonstrated through managing school projects and volunteer responsibilities.
• Time management: balanced academic workload with extracurricular activities effectively.
• Communication: strong written and verbal communication skills developed through debate team participation.
• Public speaking: gained confidence and proficiency through regular debate competitions.
• Winner, Regional High School Debate Competition, 2024

Whether or not you have any professional experience behind you, creating a resumé as a high school student is a great way to showcase your strengths and abilities gained through education and other opportunities. Consider it an investment in your future that will grow and evolve as you gain more personal and professional experiences. 

How to create a resumé for a high school student with no work experience?

To create a resumé for a high school student with no work experience, focus on academic achievements, extracurricular activities, volunteer experiences, skills and any relevant school work. You can also highlight qualities relevant to the role. This can include things like leadership, teamwork and other soft skills.

What is an example of a high school student's objective for a resumé?

An example of a high school student's objective for a resumé could be: 

“Motivated high school student seeking a part-time position in retail, where I can apply my strong communication skills and develop my customer service skills. Eager to learn and contribute to a team environment”. 

This objective is clear, aligns with the job and highlights key personal strengths.

How do you put high school on your resumé if you haven't graduated yet?

If you haven't graduated high school yet, list your high school's name and location, followed by your expected graduation date. For example: “Example High School, City. Expected graduation: June 2025”. 

Can I include my part-time job experience on a high school student resumé?

Yes, you can and should include casual and part-time job experience on a high school student resumé. It shows you have workplace experience, a proactive work ethic and time-management skills. List the job title, employer and dates of employment, and briefly describe your responsibilities and the skills you developed.

Should I include references on my high school student resumé?

Including references on a high school student resumé is optional. If you have limited space, you can simply state “References available upon request” . If you choose to include references, make sure they are people who can positively attest to your abilities and character, such as teachers or supervisors from volunteer work. And make sure you ask them first!

Can I include extracurricular activities on my high school student resumé?

Absolutely. Including extracurricular activities on your resumé is highly recommended. They can showcase skills such as leadership, teamwork and time management. Include activities like sports teams, special interest clubs and any other activities or groups outside of school.

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Student fight sends Auburn High School into lockdown

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) - Classes resume at Auburn High School after a fight sends the school into lockdown.

According to the Rockford Public School District, the school was on lockdown Friday due to students fighting in the building.

Police responded and will stay on site to make sure students and staff are safe, according to district officials.

A letter sent to parents by Auburn’s athletic director says due to “unforeseen circumstances and safety concerns,” all after-school activities scheduled for Friday, Sept. 20, are canceled.

School officials say they will keep families informed on any updates or new dates as soon as they are set.

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How to Build Your Personal Brand in High School

Building your personal brand is all about telling the world who you are.

Lian Parsons

Prepare for College

Building your personal brand takes time, thoughtful consideration, and plenty of trial and error, but it’s never too early to start exploring.

There are so many possibilities for your future—high school is all about discovering your interests and figuring out what comes next. If you’re struggling with where to start, these tips can help you get started on your personal brand journey. 

Why is Building Your Personal Brand Important?

Telling the world who you are in a simple and straightforward way can be more complicated than you might think. However, developing a clear way to present what makes you unique is vital, whether you’re pursuing professional opportunities, applying to college, or simply meeting new people. 

Conveying your talents and interests will take practice and exploration, so don’t be afraid to experiment with the methods and tools that work best for you. 

Create a Strong Resume

Your resume is often the first thing that potential employers, internship supervisors, and even many colleges may see about you. 

A strong resume should be a snapshot of your accomplishments and represent the best you have to offer. Make a good first impression by ensuring that your resume is easily readable, clear, and concise.

Your one-page resume should include your educational information, jobs and internships, awards and accolades, school clubs, organizations, or extracurricular activities, volunteering commitments, and college classes and college-prep programs if relevant. It should also include any special skills you may have, such as multimedia editing, proficiency in programs like Photoshop, or coding languages.

Many design websites such as Canva offer free templates so you can create a resume that best represents you. 

Craft a Unique Elevator Pitch

An “elevator pitch” is a simple way to encapsulate who you are in the amount of time it would take to introduce yourself to someone in an elevator—about 30 seconds. Your pitch should offer the most essential information that a college admissions officer, teammate, or peer should know about you.

Consider factors like where you go to school, what you plan to study in college, and a potential post-high school goal. It can also be helpful to practice with friends, family, teachers, and mentors and invite feedback from them so you can continue to develop your ideas.

Build a Website or Portfolio 

A website or portfolio are both great ways to provide a home for your work. Think of them as ways to expand the information in your resume. A website or portfolio is also a one-stop-shop for anyone who wants to learn more about you.

Include a simple homepage with easy navigation to pages like work samples, a copy of your resume, a section about you (this can be based on your elevator pitch!), and a link to your contact information or social media. If you write a blog, practice photography, play an instrument, or create YouTube videos, your website is an excellent place to host this content as well.

Once you set up your website, you should be able to easily update it whenever you want to make changes. Platforms like Wix , Squarespace , and WordPress all offer templates to help you get started.

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Learn How to Use LinkedIn 

Unlike most social media platforms, LinkedIn is designed specifically to connect people professionally. Many professional communities are surprisingly accessible and people are often only a few degrees of separation from one another.

If you’re joining LinkedIn for the first time, be selective about who you connect with. Try following these guidelines when deciding whether or not to connect with someone:

• Have we met in person? (i.e. at an event; through a mutual peer; at school, work, or an internship, etc.) 
• Do we share an industry, interests, and/or several other connections? 
• Is this even a real person? (Some of these bots are, in fact, surprisingly realistic.)

After you’ve gained a few connections, you can start engaging with them. For example, if someone makes a post announcing a promotion or a new job, comment with your congratulations. Not only is it a courteous thing to do, but with only a few sentences and a simple click, it will show your peers that you’re supportive of their success. 

Even if you’re not looking for a job right now, the LinkedIn jobs section can provide you with a good idea of the kinds of careers available in whatever fields you might be interested in, as well as the typical skills needed. 

Invest in Business Cards—and Hand Them Out! 

Business cards aren’t only useful for working professionals; students can take advantage of this tool as well. Your business card is a way to help people remember who you are and gives them the opportunity to get in touch with you easily.

Your business card should include your name, contact information, and a catchy title, such as “future journalist.” It can also include an original tagline, like “byline coming to a paper near you.” 

Moo.com is a resource for designing and printing your own business cards. If a physical card doesn’t fit your brand, consider stickers of a QR code that links to your website, or some other idea. The point is to make it quick and easy to stay connected with people you meet, so get creative!

Network with Others

Networking is necessary to build a robust community of support throughout your academic and professional career. (It’s also a great way to hand out those custom business cards!) Whether through school, work, or an extracurricular, find an organization, team, or club that feels welcoming, inclusive, and suits your interests. 

You can also attend virtual events and make good use of the “live chat” feature. Introduce yourself, plug your social accounts, talk to other attendees, and ask questions to stay engaged in the discussion.

Once you’ve connected with new people, try to maintain that link. Keep an eye on what your connections are doing in their work and reach out (in a polite, non-invasive, and professional way) if you think you can be of assistance or are looking for advice. While it may not always work out, showing support still goes a long way.

Once you have built up your network, don’t be afraid to use it! A network is strongest when it’s full of people who are mutually supportive of one another, whether it’s meeting up for a coffee, a job recommendation, or a professional partnership. Ideally, everyone in your network should be someone who wants you to succeed and vice versa.

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About the Author

Lian Parsons is a Boston-based writer and journalist. She is currently a digital content producer at Harvard’s Division of Continuing Education. Her bylines can be found at the Harvard Gazette, Boston Art Review, Radcliffe Magazine, Experience Magazine, and iPondr.

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