How to Write a Resume as a High School Student

Creating a standout resume as a high school student can be a daunting task, especially when you're just starting to build your professional life. However, with the right approach, you can craft a resume that highlights your skills, achievements, and potential. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you construct a resume that makes an impact and sets you apart from the competition.

First and foremost, focus on crafting a compelling summary statement at the top of your resume. This should be a concise paragraph that summarizes your key strengths, career objectives, and what you aim to bring to a potential employer or educational institution. For high school students, this is often about showcasing enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and any relevant skills or experiences that align with your goals.

Personal Information

Start your resume with your personal details. This section should include your name, address, phone number, and email address. If you have a LinkedIn profile or a professional portfolio, include those links as well. Make sure this information is current and accurate.

Objective Statement

Your objective statement should be a short, tailored sentence that explains your career goals and what you hope to achieve with the position or opportunity you’re applying for. For example: "Ambitious high school student seeking a part-time retail position to gain experience in customer service and sales."

Education

Since you’re in high school, this section will be a primary focus of your resume. List your current high school, expected graduation date, and GPA if it’s strong (generally 3.0 or above). If you’ve taken any advanced courses or have received any academic honors, be sure to mention those as well.

For instance:
High School Name
City, State
Expected Graduation Date: June 2025
GPA: 3.7

Relevant Coursework

If you’ve taken any courses that are relevant to the job or opportunity you’re applying for, list them here. This could include advanced classes, special projects, or any courses that have given you specific skills or knowledge applicable to the job.

Experience

In this section, include any work experience, internships, or volunteer work you’ve done. Even if your experiences are limited, highlight any roles where you’ve demonstrated responsibility, teamwork, or leadership. Use bullet points to describe your tasks and achievements. For example:

Retail Sales Associate
ABC Store, City, State
June 2023 – August 2023

• Assisted customers with product selection and provided excellent customer service
• Managed inventory and ensured store cleanliness
• Processed transactions efficiently using POS systems

If you don’t have formal work experience, consider including any significant school projects or roles in school clubs or organizations.

Skills

List any skills that are relevant to the position you’re applying for. These can be hard skills like computer proficiency, or soft skills such as communication and teamwork. Be specific and provide examples where possible.

Skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment

Extracurricular Activities

This section can include involvement in school clubs, sports, or other activities. Highlight any leadership roles or significant contributions. For instance:

President, Debate Club
High School Name
September 2022 – Present

• Organized and led weekly meetings
• Represented the school in regional debate competitions

Certifications and Awards

If you’ve received any relevant certifications or awards, list them here. This might include certifications in first aid, language proficiency tests, or academic awards.

Certifications

• CPR Certified
• Microsoft Office Specialist Certification

References

You can include a line stating that references are available upon request. If you have notable references who can vouch for your skills and character, you might want to mention them.

References available upon request.

Design and Formatting Tips

• Keep it clean and professional: Use a simple, easy-to-read font and avoid excessive graphics or colors.
• Use bullet points: This makes your resume easier to scan quickly.
• Be concise: Aim for a one-page resume, especially as a high school student.
• Proofread: Make sure there are no typos or grammatical errors.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to craft a resume that showcases your strengths and makes a strong impression. Remember, your resume is a living document that should grow and evolve as you gain more experience and skills. Keep it updated and continue to refine it as you progress through high school and beyond.