How to create an impressive high school resume

Writing a standout high school resume can be a pivotal step in your teen's journey to securing opportunities that shape their future. Whether it's for college applications, internships, or even part-time jobs, a well-crafted resume can set them apart. With the right guidance, you can help your teen highlight their achievements and skills in a way that resonates with potential employers or admission boards.

Essential components of a high school resume

Ready to help your teen start writing their resume? Be sure to include these key elements to create a well-rounded and compelling resume.

Personal details

Start with the basics. Include your teen’s full name, contact information, and a professional email address. Ensure these details are clear and easy to find at the top of the resume.

Education and academic achievements

List the school name, expected graduation date, and any academic honors. You might also want to include their relevant coursework or any projects they’ve worked on that have equipped them with specific skills or knowledge.

Real families, real results.

Real families, real results.

Join 6+ million financially smart kids, teens, and parents learning to earn, save, and invest together!

Try Greenlight today

Extracurricular activities

Encourage your teen to include activities that demonstrate leadership, teamwork, and initiative. This section can cover everything from sports and clubs to volunteer work and community service.

Work experience

Even if they haven't held a formal job, part-time work, babysitting, or tutoring can show responsibility and work ethic. Describe their role and any skills gained.

Skills and interests

List skills that are relevant to the positions or programs they are applying for. These could range from technical skills, like proficiency in a certain platform, to soft skills, like communication or problem-solving abilities.

Tips for creating a standout high school resume

Follow these strategies to make your high school resume shine and leave a lasting impression.

Keep it concise

An ideal high school resume should be one page long. Use bullet points to present information clearly and concisely.

Use action verbs

Start bullet points with strong action verbs to make achievements sound more dynamic and impactful. Words like "led," "organized," and "created" can add punch to their descriptions.

Tailor the resume

Customize the resume for each opportunity. Highlight the experiences and skills most relevant to the specific role or program.

Proofread

Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. A polished resume reflects attention to detail and professionalism.

Common mistakes to avoid

When crafting a resume, it's important to present the best version of yourself while avoiding common pitfalls that can diminish its impact.

Overloading with information

Too much information can overwhelm the reader. Focus on quality over quantity, listing experiences that truly showcase your teen's strengths.

Neglecting non-academic interests

Colleges and employers value well-rounded individuals. Include hobbies and interests that show personality and potential.

Using an unprofessional email address

Make sure the email address is appropriate and easy to associate with your teen's name.

Why a high school resume matters

A high school resume is more than just a list of accomplishments. It’s a snapshot of your teen's educational journey, showcasing their unique strengths and interests. This document serves as a tool to communicate their potential and readiness for new challenges. Developing a resume early on helps them reflect on their experiences, set goals, and gain confidence in their abilities.

Putting together a high school resume doesn't have to be daunting. With a clear structure and thoughtful content, your teen can present themselves in the best light possible. This process not only helps them prepare for future opportunities but also builds their confidence as they step into the next chapter of their lives.

Want more tips and tricks to make parenting a breeze? Check out Greenlight's Learning Center for helpful resources on all things family, finance, and fun.

This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.