Crafting a strong resume early in your career can feel like a daunting task, especially if you don’t have a lot of work experience yet. However, your resume is more than a list of jobs—it’s a snapshot of your skills, experiences, and potential. Whether you’re in high school or college, here are some tips to help you create a resume that stands out:
1. Start with a Strong Summary Statement
Your summary statement should be a brief, 2-3 sentence introduction at the top of your resume. Highlight your goals, key skills, and what you bring to the table. For example:
"Motivated high school senior with leadership experience in student government and a passion for community service. Seeking opportunities to develop skills in public speaking and project management."
2. Focus on Transferable Skills
If you don’t have a lot of formal work experience, focus on transferable skills you’ve developed through school, extracurricular activities, volunteering, or hobbies. For example:
Communication skills from presenting projects in class.
Leadership skills from being a team captain or club officer.
Time management skills from balancing schoolwork and part-time jobs.
3. Highlight Your Education
As a student, your education is one of your strongest assets. Include your school name, expected graduation date, and relevant coursework or honors. For example:
Education Oregon High SchoolExpected Graduation: June 2025Relevant Coursework: AP Economics, Business Studies, Digital MarketingHonors: National Honor Society, Student of the Month (March 2024)
4. Showcase Extracurricular Activities
Extracurricular activities demonstrate initiative, teamwork, and other valuable traits. Include leadership roles, clubs, sports, or volunteer work. Use action verbs to describe your accomplishments. For example:
Treasurer, Business Club: Managed a $2,000 annual budget and organized fundraising events that increased funds by 25%.
Volunteer, Local Food Bank: Coordinated donation drives and distributed food to over 100 families weekly.
5. Include Part-Time Jobs and Internships
Even if the jobs aren’t directly related to your career goals, part-time work and internships show responsibility and work ethic. Focus on achievements and skills rather than duties. For example:
Cashier, Local Grocery Store: Delivered excellent customer service, handled transactions efficiently, and received Employee of the Month (April 2024).
6. Tailor Your Resume to the Opportunity
When applying for a specific job, internship, or program, customize your resume to highlight the most relevant skills and experiences. Use keywords from the job description and emphasize how you meet their needs.
7. Keep It Clean and Professional
Use a simple, easy-to-read format. Stick to one page, use a professional font, and proofread carefully for errors. If you’re unsure how it looks, ask someone you trust to review it.
8. Add a Skills Section
Include a section for relevant skills, such as:
Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Social media management
Basic coding (HTML, Python)
Public speaking
Building a great resume takes time and practice, but starting early gives you a head start in showcasing your potential. Looking to learn more about a particular industry or have a job you are applying for? Reach out to the OBA Team to find connections, practice your interviews, or review your resume. We’re here to help you succeed!
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