high school college student resume

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By submitting my email address. i certify that i am 13 years of age or older, agree to recieve marketing email messages from the princeton review, and agree to terms of use., write a high school student resume for college applications.

Think resumes are only for job seekers? Think again. A high school student resume gives colleges a snapshot of your accomplishments, extracurriculars, hobbies, and work history. They can also be a useful tool for prepping for a college interview or to give to the teachers who are writing your letters of recommendation .

Not sure how to get started? Follow our tips for crafting a standout resume for college and scholarship applications.

What should go on a high school student resume for college admissions?

Any of the sections below could appear on your resume for college applications. Pick an assortment that works for you!

• Heading with your name, address, and e-mail
• High school information with your graduation date, GPA (weighted), class rank, and SAT/ACT scores
• Academic awards, publications, honors, and other achievements
• Coursework (summer programs, college courses, or other specialized workshops that do not appear on your high school transcript)
• Extracurricular activities
• Community service
• Work experience
• Special skills (e.g. foreign language fluency or HTML expertise)

When should you submit a resume to colleges?

Some colleges and scholarship committees request or recommend that you include a high school resume with your application materials. (But don’t submit a resume if they don’t ask for one—following instructions is a key application strategy.) Bring your resume to college interviews and give copies to your college counselor and teachers so that they can write you the strongest possible recommendation letter.

Tips for Composing Your College Admissions Resume

1. keep it concise..

Pare down the activities you showcase to the most brag-worthy and most representative of you as a candidate. Do colleges need to know that you were on the field hockey team for one semester in Grade 9? Probably not. The standard rule of thumb is to stick to one or two pages.

2. Focus on depth and length of commitment.

When deciding which activities and accomplishments make the cut, keep in mind that colleges would much rather see you excited about one or two key experiences than sporadic involvement in 20 clubs. If having an after-school job limited your ability to participate in clubs or sports, make sure your resume plays up your work responsibilities, training, and on-the-job skills.

Read More: Everything You Need to Know About Applying to College

3. Provide detail whenever possible.

The details are what set a resume apart from a list of extracurriculars on a standard college application. For example, when describing your involvement in the French Club make sure to include:

• school years/hours per week you participated
• specific contributions (e.g. "Organized a successful after-school film series to introduce our community to French cinema and culture" )
• leadership roles (e.g. "Treasurer, Grade 12" )
• unique details that will make you stand out

4. Highlight things you weren’t able to write about in your college essays or short answers.

Use your high school resume to show colleges something new. If your devotion to photography didn’t make it on the application but is a big part of who you are, then showcase your photography cred on your resume.

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5. Formatting is key.

Make your resume easy to scan. Divide information into sections with clear headings, bulleted lists, and a consistent font. Use a system of organization that works for you. (Chronological, by importance of activity, or by time commitment are a few options.) Don’t forget to proofread !

6. Be honest and accurate.

Colleges know how to spot inconsistencies in your high school student resume, and they won’t hesitate to call your counselor to verify information that doesn't seem right. So don't tell them that you have practice for the school play for 30 hours per week—unless drama club is somehow your full-time job!

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3 High School Student for College Resume Examples

High School Student for College Resume

Formal high school student for college resume, elegant high school student for college resume.

• High School Student for College Resume Writing 101

Life as a high school student can be exhilarating, but it can also feel like you’re juggling five million things. You’re sending out college applications, doing interviews, taking extracurricular courses, trying to have a social life, and prepare your resume for that killer job you’ve been eyeing.

If you don’t have a lot of experience, you might feel like it’s impossible to create a resume as a high school student headed to college. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be!

We’ve helped thousands of high school students craft awesome resumes and master writing a great cover letter for that college job over the years, which is why we’ve created this guide with everything you need to know—starting with three sample high school student for college resumes.

or download as PDF

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• High school student

The Most Important Part: Skills & Work Experience

As a high school student, you may be short on career experience, but you can use this section to focus on all the skills you’ve gained from the activities that keep you busy!

Your goal here is to show that you’re a motivated go-getter, and you can use the skills section to do just that. Start by reading the job description carefully to see what kind of skills they might want, like verbal communication, time management, or research.

Then, think about what skills you’ve picked up from school clubs, after-school activities, odd jobs, or errands, and write those down. If you’re stuck, ask a friend: sometimes the skills may seem so obvious to you that you’ll forget to include it!

9 Best High School Student for College Skills

• Customer service
• Microsoft Office
• Social media marketing
• Determination/diligence
• Research/analytics
• Bilingualism
• Time management
• Collaboration

Sample High School Student for College Work Experience Bullet Points

So you’ve gotten the skills section out of the way. Now, you want to focus on letting your previous experience shine.

Sure, you may not have worked as a teen in a traditional 9-to-5 yet, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have the chops. So how can you convince the recruiter you can do what it takes as a high school student looking for a college job?

Focus on impact (using metrics) from previous roles like volunteer work, internships, regular chores, extracurricular activities, or side gigs. Showcase using numbers the impact you had. Recruiters will clearly see that you know what’s important, and more importantly know how to measure it.

Let’s look at a few examples:

• Started an Eastern European Literature club as a freshman, recruiting 35+ members in the first semester
• Assisted in fundraising events for inner-city kids, helping raise $40,000 in 2 weeks
• Founded and ran a comedy page on Instagram and TikTok, reaching 5 million views and 23,000 followers
• Surpassed sales targets by 6-9% on a weekly basis by upselling appetizers and desserts to diners

Top 5 Tips for Your High School Student for College Resume

• A career objective can help your resume stand out when you’re a high school student, but only if it’s not impactful. Clearly demonstrate your achievements and drive, and mention where you see yourself within the company you’re applying to. If it’s just generic fluff, it’s best to skip it.
• It can be easy to minimize your talents if you’re early on in your career. That’s a mistake! Focus on what makes you unique: are you a polyglot? A math whiz? Top of the class in Computer Science? If it could help you stand out, put it down!
• Conversely, don’t wax poetic when writing your high school student for college resume. It doesn’t need to be a two-page resume. If you’ve got the essentials, you’re good to go. Less is more, and filler will kill your chances of getting interviewed.
• Yes, we’re repeating this! Use your work experience to show what kind of positive impact you’ve had through your previous tasks and responsibilities. Whether it’s chairing class meetings, participating in community activities, or volunteering for a fundraiser, make it clear what your impact was.
• A good resume should be easy on the eyes. Have lots of white space, simple bullet points, and no fancy graphics or images that could mess up your layout. Remember, your resume as a high school student is the first impression your future employer might have of you!

Absolutely! Don’t worry if you haven’t had an internship or worked in retail yet. Focus on volunteer work, your education, extracurricular courses you’ve taken, hobbies, and any other achievements like a strong GPA. Remember, everyone needs to start somewhere.

Sure thing! In fact, it’s better to have less than too much. If you have all the essentials we talked about, then you should be good to go. And remember: recruiters aren’t expecting you to have that much experience out of high school.

All you need to do is make sure any skills the job description asks for are reflected in your resume. Plus, include relevant work experience that aligns with the mindset or profile they’re looking for. And don’t forget to customize your career objective !

College Application Resume Guide and Example

• By Nancy L. Wolf

Published June 12, 2024 | Last Updated June 28th, 2024 at 09:40 am

High school seniors, put one more item on your to-do list. It’s time to prepare a college application resume.

This isn’t the kind of resume you’ll need when you look for your first post-college job or a brag sheet you’ve put together for someone writing a letter of recommendation, but a resume designed for a high school senior.

Why Do You Need A Resume For College Applications?

The Common Application permits students to upload an activities resume, although many colleges within the Common App system don’t accept resumes submitted this way. 

If any of the colleges you’re applying to do allow it, don’t miss the chance. It’s a perfect opportunity to highlight things you weren’t able to write about in detail in your college essays.

Even if none of the colleges on your list ask for a resume, I strongly recommend you create one for the following reasons:

• to help you complete the Common Application
• to give to teachers, counselors, advisors, and coaches writing your recommendations
• to use when applying for a job or internship
• to submit when applying for a scholarship
• to give to the interviewer at an alumni or college admission interview

What Should I Put on My Resume for College Applications?

Here’s a guide to preparing a high school student resume, along with a sample to get you started . 

1. Center your contact information at the top of the page. Include your full name, address, email address, and cell number.

2. Put your educational information in a separate section below your contact information. Include the following:

• The full name of your high school with its city and state.
• Your graduation date in month and year format.
• Your GPA – weighted and unweighted (note each).
• Your class rank – if your school ranks.
• Your test scores with dates given – SAT, ACT, SAT Subject Tests, and AP tests.
• Your academic honors and awards, such as honor roll or AP scholar.
• Any coursework that may not be on your high school transcript, such as a summer course taken at a college or a summer educational experience at a college.

3. Create a section for your experience (activities and jobs) during your four years of high school.

• Include your extracurricular Activities at your high school and also any outside-of-school activities and hobbies.
• Include significant work experience.
• Include significant community service/volunteer experience.
• If you have limited extracurricular activities because you had to work outside of school to support your family or you had to take care of a family member, explain that here

4. List your most recent and most important activity first. (Go in reverse chronological order.)

• For each of your high school extracurriculars, list the activity (avoid abbreviations) by category and date.
• Describe your specific role within the activity, including any leadership position you held and the school years and/or summers you participated.
• Use details to show your accomplishments such as the amount of funds raised, the number of students who joined the club you founded or the impact of your campaign.
• Put each extracurricular in a separate section with white spaces between the sections.
• Start each description with a strong action word such as founded, managed, provided, built, and led.
• For any job you had or still have, give the name of the company or group, your role, your job responsibilities, and dates.
• Omit any superficial or brief activities (such as a club you joined for six weeks in 9th grade).

5. Include a section for your special skills.

The last section of your resume is where you should list any special skills, such as fluency in Spanish, specific computer skills, proficiency in playing a musical instrument or athletic skills not described in the experience section.

In the special skills section, you could also list any time-consuming hobbies you have that do not fit in elsewhere – e.g., Spending 10 hours per week knitting baby booties to donate to homeless women’s shelters.

How to Format Your College Application Resume

Formatting is key to making your resume easy to scan. Here are some tips to follow:

• Use a professional font
• Make your headings consistent
• Bulleted lists may work
• Use a limited amount of bold and underlining; aim for a clear and clean format
• Keep your narratives brief but detailed
• Do not abbreviate the names of groups or organizations
• Try to keep the resume to one page (unless you won a Nobel Prize in high school)
• Proofread, proofread, proofread to avoid typos, spelling errors, grammar mistakes, and punctuation problems – and ask a trusted adult to do the same.

Use this sample high school student resume as a template for creating your own.

Remember that your resume is not a do-it-once document; be sure to update it as needed. And let me stress again: You can’t proofread a resume too carefully.

You want a college admissions officer to remember you for your accomplishments, not for your typos!

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College Student

College Student resume examples & templates

Choosing the right resume format for car sales

Include your contact information, make use of a summary, outline your college work experience, include the relevant key skills that make you a great candidate (even as a college student), detail your education & relevant certifications, pick the right resume layout and design for a college student resume.

Stepping out into the professional world as a college student or fresh graduate can seem difficult and confusing, with so many options on the path to a good job. You can give yourself a winning edge with the right methods for creating an awesome college resume. You might actually get a dream job right out of the gate, with a little luck and a toolbox of insights. 

Writing a resume for a college student is different from one for an established professional. You’ll need to highlight varied experience from internships , academic positions, volunteer work , and more. Remember, other college students have the same coursework and degrees to show, so your resume is key to proving why you’re the best candidate for a competitive position.

Resume guide for a college student resume

Accelerate success with Resume.io. Our guides and resume examples cover over 500 professions, and our resume builder makes creating a compelling resume easier than ever.

This resume guide and corresponding college student resume example will cover the following:

How to write a college student resume

• Choosing the right resume format for college students
• How to add your contact information
• Using summaries
• Adding your college experience
• Listing education and relevant experience
• Picking the right resume design/layout
• What the job market looks like, and what salary you can expect

The very first step in writing your college student resume is understanding what sections to include. Your resume should contain the following elements:

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

Lack of work experience is what usually makes student or graduate resumes inherently different from most job seekers. 

But, you can still build a strong professional profile to impress anyone! To create a persuasive narrative, gather as much information as possible about the job you’re applying for, the skills needed, and the people doing the hiring. Identify the company’s needs and showcase how you’re the person who can fulfill those needs. To craft a great college student resume, stick to this winning formula:

• Remember to highlight accomplishments rather than responsibilities. All of your classmates were assigned similar tasks, but what unique value did you bring to the class or internship?
• It’s essential to customize each application you submit for the specific employer or opportunity. You should not only tailor the writing but also the formatting and tone of your resume.
• When submitting online, optimize your resume with appropriate keywords so it won’t be filtered out by ATS screening software . Read more about ATS below.

Optimize for the ATS

Automated recruiting technology is a reality in today's job market and hiring practices. You'll need to understand the nature of applicant tracking systems (ATS) to pass this technical barrier to getting an awesome position. 

ATS software is designed to help recruiters and hiring managers sort through hundreds of resumes. This is done by automatically processing, analyzing, and scoring your resume based on keywords. As a result, certain vital sections of your resume will require extra attention.

The terms that describe job qualifications and requirements are often the same ones that the ATS searches for when processing your resume. So, pay attention to what’s obvious and give yourself an easy advantage. Stay consistent with the employers' terminology in your resume wording. 

U.S. survey results show that, in general, 75% of resumes are never seen by human eyes. Automated screening technology can become a resume black hole. If you're sending your resume through an ATS channel, keywords may be the deciding factor whether a recruiter will actually get to see it. To learn more about conquering the ATS, check out our article Resume ATS optimization .

The most commonly used chronological resume format is designed as a 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 college students or recent graduates who lack work experience, other resume formats may be more suitable. 

Like every consideration when preparing your resume, 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 are just as important as where you have worked until now—if not more so—a functional resume may be your best bet. It offers greater flexibility to emphasize your most relevant strengths up front in a section labeled “Experience.” 

A hybrid, or combination, resume format offers even more versatility. Job seekers can integrate chronological and functional elements in the most applicable manner, and perhaps even put their education section higher up on the page. 

Never underestimate the importance of a distinctive resume header to set yourself apart from other candidates. An eye-pleasing header design gets your resume noticed for the right reason. Not only does it contribute to the document’s overall reader-friendliness but also readily identifies who you are and how you can be contacted for an interview.

The most important goal is that your contact information is easily accessible. Just as important, however, is that it’s professionally presented. 

• Full name & title . List your first and last name. Use the title of the role you are pursuing.
• Professional email address . Use a clean format like [email protected] . Don’t use a quirky, unprofessional email address or an .edu.
• Phone number . List a number where you can be readily contacted, with a professional voicemail greeting.
• Location . List only your city and state . Note 'Willing to Relocate' here if applicable.
• LinkedIn . Even as a college student, you should create a LinkedIn profile that is active , relevant, and aligned with your resume. Include the URL in your header.

Don’t include:

• Date of birth : Not necessary and could potentially lead to age discrimination .
• Personal details : Marital status, social security number, passport number , etc.

Jenna Smith

Research Assistant

090-080-0000

[email protected]

Rarely does a college student or new graduate have much to showcase in the way of rich work experience. But, what you can have is a college student resume that paints a picture of a determined, positive, and productive personality. 

This is what your summary is for . It's your personal story. In fact, it may be your best chance to stand out from hundreds of other applicants, including college students with similar educational backgrounds. 

So, make sure not to squander this valuable opportunity by merely copying and pasting a block of generic text. Instead, catch the recruiter's eye off the top, in the very first line of your resume summary. Show that you've done your homework and that you have what it takes to succeed.

The whole point of the resume summary is to project a certain character and image, which is relatively easy to do in this more flexible freeform resume section. Since we're dealing with first impressions and perceptions, that image needs to be purposefully crafted. Here are some examples of possible content:

• Describe the personal qualities you think are appropriate for the industry and position. Inspire the future employer's confidence that you're a good fit for the job.
• Use action verbs and energetic, positive language. Come across as an upbeat, vibrant, productive person who will be a joy to work with and employ.
• Sprinkle in one or two of the most valuable skills you bring to this job. For example, CRM software knowledge for an office manager job could be a crucial advantage.
• Mention one or two aspects of your work / life experience that show you are productive and determined.

Need inspiration for your summary? Check out our related resumes: 

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You can find adaptable college student resume example summaries below:

Eager and ambitious business administration student with a passion for innovation and entrepreneurship. Demonstrated leadership abilities through involvement in student organizations and extracurricular activities. Strong academic foundation in finance, marketing, and management, supplemented by hands-on experience gained through internships in the business sector.

Creative and empathetic sociology student with a keen interest in cultural studies and social justice. Proficient in critical thinking, research, and written communication, with a focus on exploring complex societal issues and promoting diversity and inclusion. Seeking opportunities to apply my interdisciplinary perspective and storytelling abilities in roles that foster social change and promote understanding across diverse communities.

Enthusiastic and driven computer science student with a passion for technology and innovation. Possesses a solid foundation in programming languages such as Java, Python, and C++, coupled with coursework in algorithms, data structures, and software engineering. Experienced in developing web applications, mobile apps, and software solutions through hands-on projects and internships.

Even as a student, your work experience section needs to shine. Luckily, “experience” can be defined as more than just transitional employment. Let’s look at how this resume section can give you an edge by reflecting your life experience and your vibrant, productive personality. 

• Internship experience . This is one of the most impressive substitutes for "full" employment experience. Recruiters pay special attention to this when considering student or graduate resumes .
• Summer / temp jobs . Experience as a waitress , clerk , or nanny counts for more than you might think in terms of transferable skills. Courtesy, patience, discipline, dependability, willingness to work long hours are just a few examples.
• Social initiatives / volunteer work . These are almost always impressive on a college student resume. Volunteering demonstrates altruistic traits and a cooperative team spirit .
• Self-directed or community projects . Cite examples of commitments and collaborations that extended from your personal interests and talents.

List your current (or most recent) job at the top of this section and work your way back to your first job. Only go back as far as you’ve been in college and stick to experience that is directly related to the role you are applying for. 

Under each employer and role heading, describe your contributions in concise bullet point statements, omitting “I.”  Start each bullet point with an action verb like led, motivated, orchestrated, collaborated, or managed.

Make sure to focus on results and concrete information that demonstrates tangible outcomes as opposed to generic duties. This will impress the employer and help them see why you’re a cut above other college students.

Take a look at the college student employment history resume sample below:

Sales Associate at Coffee Grinders, Boston  September 2015 - June 2018 

• Greeted customers and assisted them with purchasing products.
• Helped customers grind coffee beans and sample new products.
• Maintained a clean and welcoming store environment.
• Handled financial transactions.
• Monitored and recorded inventory records.

How to write a college student resume with no work experience

Remember, no employer is expecting to see a 10-year work summary on your college student resume. Concentrate on projecting a positive, productive image to make a strong first impression. 

If you have no experience, your summary can be a goal statement—perhaps a bit more imaginative but still relevant and focused. Just aim for a general description, combining a variety of past projects, personal qualities, and life experiences. 

In your employment history section, showcase your involvement in extracurricular activities such as clubs, organizations, sports teams, or volunteer work. Describe your roles and responsibilities within these activities, highlighting any leadership positions or notable achievements. 

Finally, include a skills section where you can list any technical skills , languages , software proficiency, or certifications that are relevant to the jobs you're applying for. By focusing on your academic achievements, skills, and extracurricular activities, you can create a compelling resume that demonstrates your potential as a college student with no prior experience .

The skills section of a college student resume should be defined by the job you're looking to attain. Even at this early stage of life, job seekers often have more relevant skills and professional qualities than they give themselves credit for. The trick is to choose and describe them correctly on your resume.

Start by creating a master list. The master list is a free-form document—electronic or even a piece of paper—where you write down every skill and quality you can think of. Keep your master list handy for reference whenever a new job opportunity arises. Grab it for easy cherry-picking to tailor each new version of your specific resume to the job application.

Once you've found an actual job application or opportunity, tailor your resume and skills section to the job listing. We've talked about keywords already, and the point of this step is to satisfy both the hiring specialist and the ATS. 

Pay attention to the skills terminology used in the job description and ensure your skills outline matches the same wording if possible. This may seem trivial but may become the difference between getting a job interview and being filtered out.

Make sure to understand the difference between hard skills and soft skills and how to assess their relative importance to specific jobs and employers. Hard skills are pragmatic tools used in daily duties (for instance, computer skills or math aptitude) while soft skills relate to social interactions , self-management, teamwork, and so on.

Check out a college student resume sample for the skills section below.

• Office Technology Skills
• Motivated Attitude
• Social Media Platforms
• Advanced Communication Skills

As a college student, your education is likely the most consequential experience you’ll have to show on your resume. That’s why it’s important to carefully complete this section with the right details to impress the hiring manager or scholarship committee.

As with your employment history section, you’ll want to list each degree from most recent to oldest. Create a subheading with the degree name, university, dates attended, and location. Since you’re likely still studying, you can add “present” instead of an end date.

Underneath the subheading, you should add 2-3 bullet points that describe your most impressive academic achievements, relevant coursework , and leadership roles. It’s also a good idea to include your expected graduation date if you’re still a student. Your GPA is also an essential piece of information, but only list it if it’s 3.5 or above. If your GPA for your major is significantly higher than your overall score, include that instead. 

If you’re still in college, you can add your high school education in much the same way as your college one. If adding a GED , simply include the date completed. Once you’ve completed a bachelor’s degree or higher, remove your high school details to make more room for professional experience on your resume. 

Check out our adaptable education resume sample below and learn more about adding your education to your resume .

Bachelor of Film and Media Studies, Boston University, Boston  August 2016 - Present 

• Working towards a Film and Media Studies degree

High School Diploma, Regis High School, New York  September 2012 - May 2016 

• Graduated with High Honors
• President of the Journalism Club

Layout, design and formatting considerations are vitally important for a successful college student resume. There are two main reasons for this: visual perception by humans and processing compatibility with automated systems. 

Make it easier on recruiters. Employ chunking, which makes the text more readable and digestible by breaking it into bite-sized pieces. This is achieved through the use of white space and graphical elements such as boxes, lines, images, and other formatting that improves legibility.

Recruiters are likely to pay a lot more attention to your resume if you apply a visually attractive, suitably-formatted template based on research-backed design principles.  Just as you should customize the content of your resume for each position you apply to, your layout and design should also match the image of the employer or opportunity. 

Professionally designed resume templates make it easy to create a perfectly formatted layout and give you the ability to switch between styles with ease.

Key takeaways for building a college student resume

You can get an awesome job as a college student. Your college student resume is a hugely important instrument for that. The summary section provides the best opportunity for your college student resume to stand out and show personality.

The education section is a focal point for most college student resumes. Your resume skills section will be defined by the job you are pursuing within a specific industry. Tailor it to the job description and your knowledge of the industry. 

Our online resume builder makes the process of college resume creation much easier and helps avoid hidden technical pitfalls.

Beautiful ready-to-use resume templates

College Student Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

• Resume Examples
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How To Write a College Student Resume

• Computer Science

College Student Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples

• Math College Student Resume Example
• Computer Science Student Resume Example
• Marketing Student Resume Example

Joseph Corbin (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | Philadelphia, PA 12345 | www.linkedin.com/example

Motivated student with strong academic performance in high school, including an “A” average for Mathematics. Demonstrated success in a leadership role through multiple school athletics and work activities. Naturally curious and eager to explore and understand new topics.

Key Skills 

• Complex problem-solving
• Data analysis
• Group leadership
• Mathematics
• Microsoft Excel
• Team collaboration

Graduate, Benjamin Franklin High School, Philadelphia, PA | August 2018 to June 2022

• “A” average in all Mathematics classes, including AP Calculus

High School Athletics

Spring Track Team 

Co-Captain (Senior year)

• Voted into team leadership role; coordinated with the head coach to help organize meets and answer various questions from team members
• Served as a valued mentor and resource to underclassmen

Member (all four years)

• Gained and demonstrated a strong sense of dedication and teamwork
• Contributed to team’s placing in the top four out of 18 high schools in the region for three consecutive years

Work Experience

Host / Server / Team Lead, Domino’s Pizza, Philadelphia, PA | Summer 2018 and 2019

• Greeted visitors and took and served food orders in a fast-paced environment
• Proposed several changes to the order entry process for servers and delivery drivers, improving efficiency and collaboration among the two groups
• Helped restaurant place No. 3 in the region for customer satisfaction in July and August 2019

Hobbies & Interests

Avid reader (six or more books per month) | Painting | Running

Advanced proficiency in Spanish (A- average for classes taken in all four years of high school)

Rob Smith  (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | Columbus, OH 12345 | www.linkedin.com/example

Efficient and hardworking student with a strong interest in computer science. Draw on technical knowledge base covering UX design, JAVA, MySQL, and HTML. Demonstrated success objectively measuring software performance while participating in a rapid development cycle.

• Efficiency improvement
• Group collaboration
• Independent research
• Technical troubleshooting
• User experience (UX)

Graduate, AAE High School, Columbus, OH | August 2018 to June 2022 3.7 GPA | Top 10% of graduating class

Tech Support, XYZ Company, Columbus, OH | June 2020 to present

• Quickly and professionally respond to various tech support tickets
• Install hardware and software as needed to maintain systems
• Work with managers to develop rapid response systems to major tech threats
• Co-design and deliver educational materials to staff on proper tech use

Retail Sales Associate, Smith Clothing Company, Columbus, OH | August 2019 to May 2020

• Gained strong foundation in positive customer relations
• Operated cash register and balanced the till at end of day (EOD)

Certifications

• Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) A+
• Nielsen Norman Group UX and UX Master

John Miller (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | Columbus, OH 12345 | LinkedIn | Portfolio

High school student with a strong interest in marketing and advertising. Freelance graphic design professional with a growing portfolio and client relationships with major local nonprofits. Enjoy collaborating on a team to explore topics and solve complex challenges.

• Data visualization
• Graphic design
• Marketing strategy
• Task prioritization
• Writing and editing

Candidate: Diploma, Douglass High School, Columbus, OH | expected June 2023 3.8 GPA | SAT scores: 760 math, 680 verbal (1440 combined)

High School Athletics and Activities

Member, Debate Team | August 2020 to present

• Collaborate closely on a 10-person team to research debate topics and form and organize compelling arguments

Member, Cross-Country Running Team | Fall 2021 and 2022

Freelance Graphic Designer, XYZ Company, Columbus, OH | April 2018 to present

• Conceptualize and create diverse marketing materials to spec
• Engage and partner with marketing teams to design campaigns and track return on investment
• Design logos and event graphics for client nonprofits
• Make infographics using data provided by sales teams
• Developed an award-winning print ad for a local coffee shop

Library Materials Associate, Community Library, Columbus, OH | June 2014 to April 2016

• Greeted students and verified account status for check-out
• Helped students find and incorporate various research sources
• Set up display technology for individual and group use
• Managed schedules for meeting and study rooms
• Reshelved materials at EOD

Technical Skills

Adobe InDesign, Photoshop | Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)

When applying to colleges, you may find some schools require a resume . You can write a great resume for your college applications by showing your relevant high school and other experiences and emphasizing how you’ve explored topics and pursued your interests. Incorporating this theme into each section of your resume can increase your chances of being accepted into your preferred college or university. The advice and examples provided below can guide you in achieving this goal.

1. Summarize your college student qualifications in a dynamic profile

Your resume profile should catch admissions officers’ interest by giving the top reasons they can expect you to engage actively in their campus community. Can you share some instances from your life where you have exhibited curiosity and dedication toward excellence? Your answer to this question can lead to your best profile points. For example, maybe you’ve earned an “A” average in the school subject likely to become your college major. Or perhaps you’ve done freelance work that’s helped you develop a hobby into a possible career track. With details like these at the top of your college resume, you can show your potential to thrive in a college setting.

Profile Example

Motivated student with strong academic performance in high school, including an “A” average for mathematics. Demonstrated success in a leadership role through multiple school athletics and work activities. Naturally curious and eager to explore and understand new topics.

2. Add a compelling section featuring your college student experience

Use your resume’s experience section(s) to give examples of exploring and pursuing topics that interest you. Colleges and universities generally want students who are engaged, diligent, and curious about the world. So view your experience from this perspective and write down anything that reflects your gaining or showing these qualities.

You aren’t limited to details about work experience, especially if the jobs you’ve held so far don’t speak to your career interests. On a resume for college applications, the strongest experience section will often come from a different area. For example, maybe you’re most proud of having been on the debate team or teaching yourself HTML outside school. Below is a list of possible experience sections you might develop on your resume:

• Community service
• High school athletics
• Internship experience
• Personal accomplishments
• School clubs and societies
• Study abroad experience
• Summer coursework

Experience Example

Spring Track Team

3. Include education and certifications relevant to college students

View your resume’s education section as another chance to show active engagement in learning. Give basic details about your high school. But also feel free to name study areas or materials that have sparked your interest and may become a focus for you at the college level. For example, if your English classes have let you choose from a reading list for each unit, you could name some of the books or texts you decided to read and why. Also note any AP classes you’ve completed, school awards you’ve won, or other distinctions you’ve earned, like a high GPA or class rank. These can all help admissions officers see your potential.

Below are templates and examples to help you format your high school education, along with any certifications you’d like to add to your resume. Note that optional template areas appear in [brackets].

• Candidate: Diploma, High School Name, City, ST | expected graduation date
• [Select study areas or materials of interest]

Certification

Certification Name or Title , [Awarding Organization] | [Year]

Service Excellence Certificate, VCU Advanced Solutions | 2023

4. List college student-related skills and proficiencies

Add a key skills section to show how you excel in a learning environment. For instance, maybe you like to research a topic independently, or you prefer the stimulation of working in a group. On the other hand, perhaps you’re open to learning by various methods. Whatever your learning style, you can highlight it in your key skills section so admissions officers see how you’d apply yourself at their school. Below are some common keywords for college student resumes:

5. Consider adding personal hobbies or interests

You may have heard that hobbies and interests should be left off a resume. While this is often true for regular job seekers, it doesn’t apply to aspiring college students. Hobbies and interests can be a strong feature of your college application resume because they help show your all-around sense of curiosity. Feel free to highlight them in a separate section, typically toward or at the bottom of your resume.

Hobbies and Interests

How To Pick the Best College Student Resume Template

For college applicants, a clear and straightforward resume template is usually best. Opt for a visual design that lets the admissions officer quickly review your most relevant information. Select a traditional resume font , and avoid any template with a colorful or elaborate design.

Frequently Asked Questions: College Student Resume Examples and Advice

What are common action verbs for college student resumes -.

For aspiring college students, good resume verbs will relate to the process of learning and discovery – think “explored,” “researched,” or “uncovered.” But there are various others you might use to describe your school, work, and other life experiences so far. The following list can help you find a good mix of action verbs for your college application resume:

How do you align your resume with each college application? -

The National Center for Education Statistics forecasts that total undergraduate enrollment will increase by about 9% (to nearly 17 million students) between 2021 and 2031. 

To optimize your resume for each college application:

1. Take cues from what you know about the school. 2. Refer to their website, brochures, notes from the campus tour, or any other information you’ve gathered on what the school is known for and what you’re most drawn to about it. 3. As you look over these materials, highlight words or phrases that are repeated or emphasized.

These terms can tell you what details you may want to feature in your resume profile or key skills sections (as long as they’re accurate to your experience).

For example, say you’re drawn to the college’s study-abroad program. Consider using your profile to showcase any travel or exchange programs you’ve done, along with your foreign language skills. With adjustments like these, you can make your resume more relevant to each college opportunity.

What is the best college student resume format? -

In nearly all cases, use a Combination (or Hybrid) resume because it’s easiest for admissions officers to learn about your pertinent skills and background. It’s also easiest for you to align with your goals.

With the Combination format, you focus on your most relevant skills and experience in your experience section(s) and an intro section. (This combination of experience and intro content is where the format gets its name.) Your resume intro should usually include a profile summary and key skills section, but you may also add a highlights or awards section. By carefully choosing the details for these intro sections, you can (a) position yourself for your desired school program and (b) give admissions officers a clear, quick view of what you offer.

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Jacob Meade is a resume writer and editor with nearly a decade of experience. His writing method centers on understanding and then expressing each person’s unique work history and strengths toward their career goal. Jacob has enjoyed working with jobseekers of all ages and career levels, finding that a clear and focused resume can help people from any walk of life. He is an Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW) with the Resume Writing Academy, and a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches.

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• • Implemented A/B testing strategies that improved email open rates by 10%.

High School Student Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

Your teens resume should emphasize any part-time work or volunteer experience you have. Showcase responsibilities that demonstrate your commitment and work ethic. Highlight your extracurricular activities, as they reflect your ability to manage time and prioritize. These experiences can illustrate valuable transferable skills such as teamwork and leadership.

All resume examples in this guide

High School Student No Experience

Experienced High School Student

High School Student Internship

First Job High School Student

High School Student For College

High School Student For Customer Service

High School Student Office Worker

High School Student Athlete 

High School Student Music

Resume guide, what you’ll learn here, how to write a high school resume, high school resume formats, high school resume header recruiters keep their eyes on, high school resume summary looking professional, straight to the point resume objective, admirable high school resume experience that leaves positive impression, high school skills that make you look like a pro, education section in high school resume, high school certifications and courses, day of high school student’s life section, key takeaways.

By Experience

You are young, motivated and full of energy but struggle to find a job/internship?

Yes, this paradox is something common for high schoolers.

After all, you are nothing more than a lad with big dreams for the recruiters.

But don't get upset! We are here to show you the right path to success. You might have little to no experience, but your approach matters.

Grab your pencil and take notes from this 2022 guide for building a breath-taking high school resume.

• How to describe your education and specific knowledge by providing vital skills, achievements and responsibilities
• How to include your previous experience no matter what it is
• The difference between summary and objective and the steps to write them
• What other resume sections will fit the high school resume and pro tips for building them

You know that amazing feeling when the school year ends knowing that you are lying in bed doing nothing for two months?

Of course, you do! However, this is not the vibe you want to radiate!

After all, you are just a student with almost no life experience! Why do you think employers can trust you?

If you play your cards well, you have the right to be confident in yourself!

The approach when building your high school resume is crucial:

The first thing to do is to tailor it to the job description .

Such action is what separates successful from unsuccessful candidates.

You should use keywords and skills that express confidence and eagerness to achieve goals and learn.

You are a teenager, not a chief manager. You are not expected to have deep expertise but to gain knowledge.

Remember that recruiters want to know how you could contribute to their business.

You should prove to them that you could apply all you’ve learned from schools/training/courses.

Emphasize skills and strengths like communication, self-motivation and time management.

References from your tutors will be a bonus!

Do you know any foreign languages-they are the golden ticket to landing a job as a youngster!

Do not hesitate to add extraordinary talents or achievements that make you different from your peers.

Continue reading the high school resume guide and make their jaw drop when they understand you are just a high school student!

You have three main options when it comes to resume formats:

• Reverse-chronological resume
• Functional resume
• Hybrid resume

Years of experience and industry expertise are the two key factors that define your choice of a resume format:

• Reverse-chronological resumes will give an advantage to people with some experience in a specific niche.
• Functional resumes are perfect for career changers and job seekers. Nevertheless, this format isn’t popular among employers.
• Hybrid resumes are suitable for all types of professionals-beginners and seniors.

Pay attention to the style and layout! Here are some resume tips :

• Utilize the 12p resume font size
• 10’ resume margins are your optimal choice
• If you have under 10 years of experience-use one-page resume, otherwise-two-page resume
• Pay strict attention to your grammar and spelling
• Use the PDF format

Add References and Languages if you want to increase the chances of landing your first internship/job.

Top resume sections:":

• As a youngster, a coherent Education section makes you stand out
• If you have any experience, you will mesmerize recruiters
• Your summary introduces your goals and intentions for the future
• Listing crucial skills and strengths should be your priority
• References from your teachers prove you are a smart and respectful young person

What recruiters want to see:

• How will you bring value to the recruiter’s business based on your previous experience?
• How can you apply learned from school/training/courses into practice? Do you share your knowledge with others?
• What are your personality traits? How do you see yourself in the big world? What do you want to accomplish?
• Are you a self-motivated and communicative student? How do you act in intense and stressful situations? Do you like working in a team?

Your name and contacts are the first things employers see in your resume.

However, do not naively expect recruiters to remember any of them.

Therefore, you should focus on building an attention-grabbing header section .

Here are some tips to secure that you’ve done your job well:

• Write down your first and last name: make sure that they are the same as on your ID card and social profiles
• Be creative with the title: it should show your intentions for the position and your out-of-the-box thinking
• Adding your phone number and email is a must
• A web portfolio address or social media account will provide extensive information about you as a person and go-getter

Read these examples and avoid common mistakes.

2 High School Resume Header Examples

The summary is not always the “let’s boast-off” section where you put facts like: 

“Graduated from Harvard and became a Vice President at Google!”

We wish you had similar professional results, but you most likely start from zero.

You’ve got no professional accomplishments and a multibillion-dollar company behind your back.

However, the Summary section gives you the opportunity to:

• Introduce yourself as a self-motivated and ambitious youngster ready to learn
• Your intentions for the future and your personal goals
• What you’ve learned from school and our life experience so far

So, don’t lose hope and follow this advice to build a jaw-dropping summary section:

• Emphasize the knowledge you have in a specific subject
• Use quantitative data and action verbs to radiate dedication
• Mention skills that you acquired and how you could apply them in this particular position
• Include achievements and other accomplishments from authoritative institutions and people
• Add a foreign language that you can speak fluently
• Include say what you are looking for in the job you apply for

These tips are so powerful that they could sky-rocket your career.

Therefore, do not lose time and take notes from the examples below before writing your one-of-a-kind high school resume summary:

2 High School Resume Summary Examples

The following candidate made three crucial mistakes:

• The text is not tailored to the job description, and the candidate’s goals look vague
• It offers too general statements that bring no value
• Repetitiveness and starting almost every sentence with “I”

Therefore, you should research before writing your high school resume summary.

This one is way better as it follows all the tips above.

The applicant obviously did what’s expected from them:

• Offered a cohesive introduction that prove value to employers
• Outlines the student’s experience and positive personality traits

The alternative of a Summary section is a straight-to-the-point high school resume objective.

It’s brief, contains action verbs and reveals your intentions and goals.

You might include the position of the skills/strengths you want to acquire and excel.

Remember to add experience (if you have) like internships, previous summer jobs, competitions, conferences and similar events you took part in.

It’s vital to mention the exact position you are looking for and the company.

Below you can see a great example of a high school resume objective :

What is the synonym for the phrase "land a successful career"? 

The answer is a deep experience . 

So, it's simple to name it but so hard to gain it. 

Yes, even as a high school student, your expertise might play a crucial role. 

Not only jobs but internships also require some experience. 

But it's okay! 

With the right approach, you can move mountains.

Follow these steps and start building your high school Experience section:

• Try to use action verbs and quantitative data to support your statements
• Do not hesitate to mention your extraordinary achievements that made a positive impression
• Pay attention to skills you acquired and the way you applied them at work
• Give proof of work in a team and the outcomes from this collaboration
• Add duties and responsibilities that underline your self motivation, communication and organization skills

How did you utilize your communication skills and foreign languages at work?

Are your employers happy with your performance? How did you impress them? 

How did you manage to balance school and work? 

Did you work in a team, and did you make valuable relationships? 

High school resume experience examples

• • Supervised a lot of students
• • Delivered lectures to students
• • Prepared new course material
• • Fostered conversations with parents

You can try to give more detailed information about your work.

This candidate gives a bad example as they had a chaotic approach.

Recruiters do not care about what you did, but how you did it.

If you don't follow the advice and stick to mediocrity, you won't succeed.

• • Supervised 20+ 7–10-year-old students
• • Delivered 15 lectures on empathy and teamwork to 100+ students
• • Assisted in preparing the new course material for 4th-grade students
• • Fostered conversations with 10+ parents and received 98% positive feedback

Pro tip."

It's preferable to mention your age when listing your extraordinary achievements. Recruiters would love to invest in young talents like you.

Be so good they can’t ignore you.

Steve Martin, American Actor

You should list skills that you are confident you mastered. Just listing several skills won’t impress the recruiters. That’s why it’s a good idea to support and mention them in other sections of your high school resume.

You don’t have a second chance, so consider your skill choice carefully.

7 high school student soft skills:

• Interpersonal Skills
• Collaboration
• Self Motivation
• Time Management
• Fast Learning
• Attention to Detail
• Adaptability

7 High school student hard skills for your resume

• Foreign Languages
• Basic Computer Skills
• Microsoft Office
• Google Drive
• Customer Service
• Public Speaking & PowerPoint Presentations

The Strengths section is an amazing opportunity to stand out from the competition.

Here you could list your talents or the skills that you excelled at.

Then, you can back them up with examples or quantitative data.

Of course, it’s crucial to focus on strengths related to the job description and focus on positive personality traits.

Take a deep breath and focus because the Education section will define the outcome of your job applications.

You can look at it as experience, as it:

• Offers proof of your self motivation and attitude toward learning and applying knowledge
• Shows your relationships with other students and feedback from your teachers
• Outlines your interests: employers will bet on candidates whose interests match the job offer

Do you get it now?

High school years are not just 5 years in which you party and drink.

It also shows your perception of the future.

So, to impress recruiters, follow these tips:

• List your favorite subjects and provide evidence for your top performance
• Mention achievements: awards or similar recognitions backed up with quantitative data
• Include extracurricular activities: competitions, conferences, and meetings you participated in. Emphasize teamwork.
• Add GPA (higher 3.6) and references from tutors  

There are countless courses to join and certifications to acquire.

However, the vital element here is to mention those that match the job description.

Otherwise, they will be useless.

Here are the most common and respected types of certifications to mention in your high school resume:

Top 4 high school student certificates:

• Foreign Language Certification
• Microsoft 365 Fundamentals
• Google Certification
• First Aid Certification

Let us tell you one universal truth:

If you learn how to manage your time early in life, there is a 99% chance you will be successful.

And employers will be impressed by it.

A person who clearly understands the price of time also considers it the most vital asset.

Nevertheless, students make one crucial mistake.

They do not mention how the job/internship they apply for will fit their schedule.

Thus, employers feel uncertain whether you will give 100% attention and energy.

So, look at the example below and carefully consider what to add to the diagram.

• Focus on communication and self motivation skills: prove you are a go-getter and ready to learn
• Emphasize duties, achievements, awards and responsibilities
• Mention the skills and knowledge you acquired from school and how you apply them in real life
• Add References, Languages, Strengths and similar sections that build trust

Teens resume examples

Explore additional teens resume samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

Looking to build your own Teens resume?

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How to Start a Resume (5+ Examples of Resume Introductions)

5 elements every cover letter outline needs, what is an unsolicited resume, resume for 10 years of experience, unlocking your career potential: the importance of personality tests in job selection, star interview questions.

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• August 16, 2024
• 10th Grade , 11th Grade , 12th Grade , College Admissions , Extracurricular Involvement , Personal Statement , Test Prep

How to Prepare High School Students for College

Preparing for college is a significant milestone for high school students. This journey can be both exciting and challenging, but with the right strategies, students can ensure a smooth transition and achieve academic success. This guide provides our top 10 essential tips for preparing high school students for college, covering everything you need to know from academic planning to life skills development. By following these steps, you’ll be sure to feel confident and ready to tackle your college application process.

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1. Understand the college application process

First off, navigating the college application process requires careful planning and organization. Starting early can make a big difference in ensuring you meet all requirements and deadlines.

Start early

You can also utilize college fairs and online resources. Attending college fairs can provide valuable insights and direct interactions with admissions representatives. Online resources, such as college websites and virtual tours, offer a wealth of information to help narrow down choices as well.

Begin researching colleges and understanding their requirements by sophomore year . Early preparation will allow you to explore different options and determine what criteria are most important to you.

2. Focus on academic excellence

Academic performance is a crucial component of the college admissions process. Striving for excellence in your studies will not only make you a more competitive applicant but also prepare you for the rigors of college coursework.

Take challenging courses

Enroll in AP, IB, or honors classes. These courses demonstrate a willingness to challenge yourself and enhance your academic profile. Colleges often look for students who have taken the most challenging courses available to them.

Keep your GPA up

Maintain a strong GPA throughout high school. Consistently high grades reflect your dedication and ability to succeed academically. Aim to achieve a balance between challenging coursework and maintaining a strong GPA.

Prepare for standardized tests

The earlier you can take the PSAT, SAT, and ACT, the better. These standardized tests are critical components of college applications. Early testing provides opportunities for retakes and improvement.

Consider test prep courses and practice tests. Investing time in preparation can significantly boost your scores. There are lots of resources you can utilize such as test prep books, online courses, and tutoring to strengthen your test-taking skills.

3. Build a strong extracurricular profile

Another tip we have is to build up a strong extracurricular profile. Extracurricular activities play a significant role in college applications. They showcase your interests, skills, and commitment beyond academics.

Find your passion

You should engage in activities that genuinely interest you. Passion-driven involvement is more impactful than participating in numerous unrelated activities.

Seek leadership roles and long-term commitments too. Leadership positions in clubs, sports, or community organizations demonstrate initiative and responsibility.

Volunteer and community service

Participate in community service projects . Volunteering reflects a commitment to helping others and can be a rewarding personal experience. Keeping a record of your activities and the impact you’ve made can help strengthen your college application.

4. Develop essential life skills

Developing essential life skills during high school will prepare you for the challenges of college and beyond.

Time management

Learn to balance your academics, extracurriculars, and personal life early on. Effective time management is a crucial skill for maintaining a healthy balance and achieving success.

You can use planners or digital tools to help you stay organized. These tools will help you keep track of your assignments, deadlines, and daily activities.

Communication skills

Practice writing and public speaking. Strong communication skills are essential for college and future careers.

Participating in activities like debate club or writing for your school newspaper are great ways to do this. These experiences can improve your ability to articulate ideas and present arguments effectively.

5. Seek guidance and support

Guidance and support from various sources can make the college preparation process much smoother and more effective.

Utilize school resources

Meeting regularly with your school counselor can be a huge benefit. Counselors can provide valuable insights into college selection, application timelines, and scholarship opportunities.

Attending college prep workshops and seminars is equally as beneficial. These events offer information on various aspects of the college admissions process and provide networking opportunities with admissions officers.

Connect with mentors

As a senior, you can seek letters of recommendation from trusted teachers. Building strong relationships with teachers early on will lead to more personalized and compelling recommendation letters.

Another way to prepare for college is to find mentors who can provide advice and support. These can be teachers, older students, or professionals in your field of interest.

6. Plan financially for college

Financial planning is another critical aspect of preparing for college. Understanding and managing the costs involved can reduce stress and help you focus on your studies.

Understand financial aid options

Take some time to learn about FAFSA, scholarships, and grants. These financial aid options can reduce the cost of college greatly and are essential for many students.

You can also plan to start saving early and consider a part-time job. Early savings and additional income can help cover expenses such as textbooks, supplies, and personal expenses.

Budgeting skills

An additional way to plan financially for college is to create a budget for your college expenses. A detailed budget can help you manage your money effectively and prevent overspending. 

Financial literacy is crucial for college students to avoid debt and ensure they cover necessary expenses.

7. Craft a standout college application

Creating a compelling college application is a key part of making a strong impression on admissions officers. Each component should reflect your best qualities and achievements.

Write a compelling personal statement

Your personal statement should share your unique story and experiences. Highlight what makes you stand out and why you are a good fit for the college.

Don’t forget to proofread and revise multiple drafts as well. Ensure your essay is free of errors and clearly communicates your message to make a positive impact.

Highlight achievements

Show off your accomplishments by creating a detailed resume. Include academic, extracurricular, and personal achievements that demonstrate your skills and dedication.

Highlighting a variety of accomplishments shows your well-rounded character and capabilities.

8. Prepare for college interviews

Interviews are an opportunity to make a personal connection with admissions officers and further demonstrate your suitability for their college.

Practice common interview questions

Familiarize yourself with common college interview questions. Practicing your responses will help you feel more confident and articulate during the actual interview.

You should also seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or family members. Constructive feedback will lead to improvements in your answers and delivery.

Dress professionally and be punctual

First impressions matter. Dressing professionally and being punctual shows respect and seriousness about the opportunity. This will also reflect well on your character and can positively influence the interviewer’s perception of you.

9. Explore college campus life

Getting a feel for campus life can help you determine if a college is the right fit. Exploring the campus environment provides a deeper look into your daily life and available resources as a future college student.

Visit campuses

Take advantage of campus tours to experience the environment firsthand. Visiting campuses can help you visualize yourself there and make an informed decision about whether it’s a good fit.

You can also attend information sessions and open houses. These events provide opportunities to learn more about the college’s offerings and ask questions to current students and faculty.

Research campus resources

Investigate available student resources such as libraries, career centers, and health services. Knowing what support systems are in place can help you prepare for a successful college experience.

This also includes exploring extracurricular opportunities on campus. Participating in clubs, organizations, and other activities will really enrich your college experience and allow you to meet new people.

10. Develop a college readiness mindset

Preparing for college involves more than just academics and applications. Developing the right mindset is important for a successful transition.

Cultivate independence

Start managing your responsibilities more independently. Taking charge of your schedule, assignments, and personal tasks builds confidence and self-reliance.

Practice self-discipline and time management. Developing these skills early will help you handle the increased freedom and responsibility that comes with college life.

Stay positive and resilient

Maintain a positive attitude throughout the process. Staying optimistic can help you navigate challenges and stay motivated. College preparation is undeniably stressful, but learning to bounce back from difficulties and manage your stress levels is a valuable skill.

Key takeaways

As you can see, preparing for college as a high school student involves a multifaceted approach. It requires a strategic approach and a clear vision. High school students should remember to strive for academic excellence, engage in meaningful extracurricular activities, craft compelling application materials, plan financially, and seek out guidance when needed. Most importantly, students should start preparing for college early on.

Keeping in mind our top 10 tips for preparing for college will ensure a smooth transition to college and ultimately help you achieve your long-term academic and career goals. Good luck with your college applications!

How Prepory can help

At Prepory, we offer comprehensive college preparation services to help high school students succeed. Our expert advisors provide personalized guidance on college applications, essay writing, and interview preparation. With Prepory, students can confidently navigate the college admissions process and achieve their academic goals. Our tailored approach ensures that each student receives the support they need to stand out and get accepted to their dream school.

FAQs about preparing for college

When should i start preparing for college.

It’s best to start as early as your freshman year in high school. Early preparation allows you to explore colleges, understand their requirements, and develop a strong academic and extracurricular profile.

What are the most important factors in a college application?

Academic performance, extracurricular activities, your personal statement, and letters of recommendation are all crucial components. Colleges look for well-rounded students who demonstrate excellence and commitment in various areas.

How can I manage my time effectively?

Use a planner or digital tools to organize your schedule. Prioritize tasks, set realistic goals, and avoid procrastination.

What should I include in my personal statement?

Share your unique story, experiences, and motivations. Highlight what makes you stand out and why you are a good fit for the college. Ensure your essay is well-written, free of errors, and clearly communicates your message.

How do I choose the right extracurricular activities?

Engage in activities that genuinely interest you and align with your passions. Seek leadership roles and long-term commitments to demonstrate dedication and initiative. Quality is more important than quantity.

How can I prepare for college interviews?

Practice common interview questions and seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or family members. Dress professionally, arrive on time, and be courteous during the interview. Show enthusiasm and confidence.

Contact a Prepory college admissions coach and start your college admissions journey.

Our college admissions experts are here to guide you from where you are to where you should be. Through our comprehensive curriculum, individualized coaching, and online workshops, you are set for success as soon as you connect with us.

During our initial consultation, we will: 

• Assess your student’s applicant profile and higher education goals 
• Provide detailed information about our services and programming
• Share tips on how to navigate the U.S. college admissions process 

Let's get started!

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How To Prepare for College: The Ultimate Guide for High School Students

College prep steps, research colleges you may be interested in, understand each college’s admission requirements, take standardized tests, participate in extracurriculars, take a variety of high school courses, save for college, attend college fairs, talk to your guidance counselor, round up application materials, consider financial aid options, visit campus if possible, tips for preparing for college, stay organized, build good study habits, take ap or dual-credit courses, practice your writing, build your leadership skills, ready to start your education, related blogs.

Essential Tips for College Success

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College Student Success: What Does It Look Like, And How Can You Achieve It?

College can be an especially impactful part of a person’s life that often functions as a major transition from childhood to adulthood. Students considering college or beginning their college experience may be wondering what college will look like for them. They may know that they want to graduate with a degree, but the path to graduation may look a little fuzzy. It may be helpful to define what success means to you and establish a plan to achieve it. For further guidance, consider working with a licensed mental health professional.

What does student success look like?

Success looks different for everyone. This may be especially true regarding college student success because college typically has a distinct social aspect that can greatly impact the college experience. For many college students, success includes a few outcomes:

• They succeed academically, whatever that looks like for them.
• They have an overall positive college experience.
• They graduate with the confidence necessary to pursue the next steps in their lives.

Academic achievement

Successful academic achievement can be both a short- and long-term feat. Short-term, this can look like doing well in your classes, whether that means you pass them or you finish the semester on the dean’s list. Long-term academic achievement generally means that you complete your degree and graduate college. It may also involve academic extracurriculars, such as participating in research projects or studying abroad before you graduate. 

Positive college experience

No two students are likely to have the same college experience because this experience tends to be influenced by a variety of choices. Where you choose to live, which classes you take, the clubs and associations you join, the events you attend, and a host of other factors may impact your college experience. It may be helpful to consider what’s most important to you about your time at college and what you want life to look like after graduation. This may help you choose your path during your college years.

Self-confidence

One goal of the college experience may be to instill confidence in individuals on a personal and professional level. When they graduate, successful students are usually confident in their academic growth and have developed the skills necessary to pursue a career in their chosen field or continue their academic studies. 

How can I be a successful student?

Being a successful student typically requires you to find a balance between your college studies and your personal life. Research from Gallup found that students who had a positive college experience were usually more likely to have high overall well-being and engagement with their jobs later on . Behaviors that contribute to a positive student experience typically include working with a mentor, participating in extracurricular activities, and engaging in deep learning opportunities outside of the traditional classroom. 

Successful students learn how to balance academics and personal lives

College can be a unique experience because, for many students, the social aspect of it is just as important as the academic aspect. Finding a balance between the two can be daunting, but it’s often crucial to your overall success. 

Here are a few ways you can balance academics with your personal life:

• Create a weekly and daily schedule. Include time for classes, assignments, and social activities. Time blocking is a popular time management strategy in which you divide your day into blocks of time and assign a specific task to each block. This can be a helpful method for breaking your day into class time, study time, and social time.
• Don’t be afraid to say no. At times, you may need to turn down a friend’s invitation to study for a test the next day. While other social opportunities will likely arise, you usually only have one chance to take a test. 
• Reach out when you need help. Some young adults entering college may experience personal challenges, such as housing insecurity and economic hardship. There are usually staff and campus organizations that can point you toward helpful resources and ensure your needs are being met so you can focus on your academic responsibilities.  

Successful students set and achieve goals

Setting and achieving goals can be instrumental to student success. To begin setting goals, think about what you want to achieve during the semester, over the course of your college experience, and later in life as you pursue your career. Generally, these goals should be related and may become stepping stones for one another. 

One helpful exercise may be to write down goals you would like to set for yourself. Short-term goals can benefit from being set up as SMART goals; that is, they should be specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound. For example, you may set a goal to apply to five internship positions in your field by the end of the month. 

It can help to write down mid- and long-term goals as well, but because these goals involve a greater length of time, they’ll usually be more general and may not follow the SMART format. Examples of these goals might include graduating with a certain GPA and securing a job at a certain company after graduation. 

Common characteristics of successful college students

Many successful students share similar traits, including those listed below.

• Engaged - Successful students usually are not passive. They frequently participate in class and ask questions when they don’t understand something. They often pursue additional opportunities, such as research or study abroad programs. 
• Proactive - Students who are successful typically take action to pursue their goals. They may consider what actions need to happen to achieve both their short- and long-term goals and take steps to reach them without needing to be told what to do next. 
• Organized - Effective time management can be a significant contributor to student success. Students who thrive in college normally understand how to balance the demands of their coursework with personal responsibilities, such as part-time work, so that they also have room in their schedule for enjoyable social activities. 
• Connected - Because your social life can be such a critical component of the overall college experience, successful students are generally connected. They often form relationships with their peers and mentors. They frequently participate in student organizations and clubs and may also become part of the local community.
• Adaptable - For many students, college is the biggest transition of their life so far. It can involve moving far away from home, meeting a host of new people, and being given a level of responsibility they have never experienced before. Successful students usually learn how to adapt to these changes and take on any additional changes that come their way. 
• Curious - Curiosity can drive academic growth. Successful students often take the initiative to dive deeper into topics and ask questions about the content. They tend to be highly motivated, especially in classes pertaining to their major.

Who can help me achieve student success?

You are not alone in your college endeavors. You can seek out the support of others to learn from more experienced individuals and build relationships that benefit both your personal and academic growth. 

University faculty and staff

Having a mentor can be a critical component of achieving student success as you pursue higher education. It can be helpful to get to know your professors, especially those teaching courses related directly to your degree. You can go to instructors’ office hours to have deeper conversations about what you’re studying or ask about participating in undergraduate research opportunities. You may also benefit from working with your advisor, campus organization leaders, or grad students.

It can be helpful to get to know your classmates, especially in your degree-specific courses. This can give you a group of people with whom you can share knowledge and form study groups. For many college attendees, these classmates become lifelong friends and helpful connections in your professional network. 

Family or loved ones

The family or loved ones who raised you can still function as a support system as you go off to university. Alumni in the family may help you make connections. Older siblings may have suggestions for effective time management. Sometimes, calling home for a mental health boost when you’re experiencing the strain of a full course load can be helpful. 

Supporting your mental health in college

Your mental health can have a strong impact on your student success and what kind of college experience you have. Here are a few ways to take care of your mental well-being and make the most of your time at university.

• Make choices to support your physical well-being. The status of your physical health often has a direct correlation to the status of your mental health. Try to exercise regularly, aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night, and eat nutritious meals. 
• Practice effective time management. Try to reduce or remove distractions. For example, if you and your roommate end up chatting anytime you’re in your dorm room together, you may benefit from studying in the library and returning to your room when you’re done for the day.
• Avoid substance and alcohol misuse. Various substances and alcohol may be readily available on campus. If you’re under 21, avoid alcohol altogether, and if you’re of legal age, make sure to consume responsibly. 
• Prioritize self-care. You probably won’t be able to relax in a bubble bath when all that’s available are communal showers, so try to find other ways to care for yourself. Practice mindfulness or meditation to calm your mind when you are stressed or overwhelmed. You can also relax and reset by reading a book, listening to music, or creating art. 
• Maintain continuity of care if you have a history of mental or physical health challenges. When you turn 18, you typically gain a great deal of control surrounding your health care, which can also come with greater responsibility. The transition of starting college and possibly moving away from your family can create a slippery slope that may result in a lapse in your treatment plan. Continue to take any prescribed medications according to your doctor’s guidelines and ask your healthcare provider for a referral to providers in your new location (if applicable). 

Resources for student success support

College students may experience a great deal of pressure to achieve success. In addition, the major life transition from high school to college can lead young adults to feel stressed or anxious. Resources and support services are available to help students manage the personal and academic demands of university. 

• Student health center: Most universities have a student health center where students can obtain free or low-cost physical and mental health care.
• Online therapy platforms: Services like BetterHelp offer convenient access to virtual therapy with a licensed mental health professional.
• Career center: At the university career center, students can participate in workshops, career counseling, resume assistance, and numerous other services that can help them find jobs.
• Writing center: Students can receive assistance with writing assignments, including general feedback, proofreading, and help with citations. 
• Tutoring center: Many campuses have tutoring centers where you can receive free tutoring from subject experts. 

A college student’s schedule can be unorthodox and, at times, unpredictable. With online therapy, students can schedule sessions at a time that’s convenient for them, whether that’s between classes or after club meetings. Research generally supports the use of online therapy for treating a range of mental health disorders, and studies suggest that it’s just as effective as in-person therapy .

For many young adults, college can be an exciting but challenging time of transition. Support from the right individuals and resources can help students enjoy their college experience while working toward their academic and personal goals. Online or in-person therapy can be a powerful tool to support your mental health, whether you’re experiencing symptoms of a mental health disorder or adapting to living away from home for the first time.

• How To Make Friends In College And Build Positive Connections Medically reviewed by April Justice , LICSW
• Taking On Test Anxiety: 15 Tips For Stressed Out Students Medically reviewed by Julie Dodson , MA
• Relationships and Relations

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(HIRING EVENT SEP. 21, 2024) Student Support Paraprofessional at Santa Ana Unified School District

Application Deadline

9/13/2024 1:00 PM Pacific

Date Posted

Number of openings, add'l salary info, length of work year, employment type, hiring event location, work calendar, work hours per week:, work schedule, school site placements, about the employer.

Founded in 1888, the Santa Ana Unified School District (SAUSD) is the second largest school district in Orange County serving approximately 45,000 students and the 2nd largest employer in Santa Ana, providing job opportunities to approximately 5,000 employees. SAUSD is comprised of 32 Elementary, 8 Intermediate, 4 Alternative Educational Options, and 7 High Schools. SAUSD is committed to providing each of its students with a high-quality education, rigorous and advanced programs, and a nurturing, safe environment with state-of-the-art facilities, 21st century learning and technology, and a direct pathway to college upon graduation. Our district proudly boasts one of the highest graduation rates in the state of California.

Requirements / Qualifications

We will be conducting a Hiring Event on Saturday, September 21, 2024 for Classified Special Education Student Support Paraprofessional positions Only. You will have the opportunity to test, interview and begin the pre-employment process to be recommended for a placement! Event will take place from 9:00am to 12:30pm. at Santa Ana Unified School District office. If you are interested please submit an application and an HR representative will be in contact with you for further details. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: *Any combination equivalent to: graduation from high school *Some experience working with children in an educational or therapy setting or course work in the instructional aide and special child area. *Must meet ESSA requirements - to meet requirement, applicants must possess either an Associate of Arts (A.A) degree or 48 semester units from college/university or pass District examination. (See Notes below) Please attach following documents below: *High School Diploma *College Transcripts (showing proof of 48 college semester Units) *Resume

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Fact-Checking Claims About Tim Walz’s Record

Republicans have leveled inaccurate or misleading attacks on Mr. Walz’s response to protests in the summer of 2020, his positions on immigration and his role in the redesign of Minnesota’s flag.

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By Linda Qiu

Since Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota was announced as the Democratic nominee for vice president, the Trump campaign and its allies have gone on the attack.

Mr. Walz, a former teacher and football coach from Nebraska who served in the National Guard, was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2006 and then as Minnesota’s governor in 2018. His branding of former President Donald J. Trump as “weird” this year caught on among Democrats and helped catapult him into the national spotlight and to the top of Vice President Kamala Harris’s list of potential running mates.

The Republican accusations, which include questions over his military service , seem intended at undercutting a re-energized campaign after President Biden stepped aside and Ms. Harris emerged as his replacement at the top of the ticket. Mr. Trump and his allies have criticized, sometimes inaccurately, Mr. Walz’s handling of protests in his state, his immigration policies, his comments about a ladder factory and the redesign of his state’s flag.

Here’s a fact check of some claims.

What Was Said

“Because if we remember the rioting in the summer of 2020, Tim Walz was the guy who let rioters burn down Minneapolis.” — Senator JD Vance of Ohio, the Republican nominee for vice president, during a rally on Wednesday in Philadelphia

This is exaggerated. Mr. Walz has faced criticism for not quickly activating the National Guard to quell civil unrest in Minneapolis in the summer of 2020 after the murder of George Floyd by a police officer. But claims that he did not respond at all, or that the city burned down, are hyperbolic.

Mr. Floyd was murdered on May 25, 2020, and demonstrators took to the streets the next day . The protests intensified, with some vandalizing vehicles and setting fires. More than 700 state troopers and officers with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ mobile response team were deployed on May 26 to help the city’s police officers, according to a 2022 independent assessment by the state’s Department of Public Safety of the response to the unrest.

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