how to write resume for college students

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How To Write A College Student Resume (With Examples)

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• Resume With No Experience
• Student Resume
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As a college student, a resume may seem daunting because you may not have much experience, but there are a lot of other opportunities to make your resume stand out to employers. The opportunities that you can showcase include any volunteering you did, studying abroad, any specialized classes, or internships you’ve done.

To help you write your college student resume, we’ll go over how to write a college student resume, provide a resume example, and go over some tips to keep in mind.

Key Takeaways:

Emphasize your education and honors/awards received in college.

Take advantage of the many opportunities college gives to you and use those to spice up your resume.

Make your resume job/ internship application-specific.

Include extracurriculars, volunteer experiences, certifications, publications, interesting projects, or impressive leadership experiences if you have any.

What is a college student resume?

How to write a college student resume, current college student resume example, college student resume template, tips for writing a college student resume, college student resume faq, final thoughts.

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A college student’s resume is a document that summarizes your academic qualifications and your time spent in college. You probably had to write a brief resume for your college applications. Writing a resume as a college student is similar to that, except with a more professional edge.

Since you don’t have years of professional experience, hiring managers will understand when you don’t have that, which is why they will be looking at your academic history. They will be wondering how you have applied yourself in college both inside and outside of the classroom.

As mentioned above, college is full of opportunities to have enriching experiences. Take advantage of them — they will greatly help you not only by filling out those blank spots on your resume but also by giving you something to stand out from the rest of the competition .

Hiring managers and recruiters will be looking for signs of maturity, self-motivation, and work ethic . Keep these elements in mind as you decide how best to sell yourself based on your college experiences.

To write a college student’s resume, you should start with a resume header that includes your contact information and then go into your resume objective statement. Your top claim to fame is your educational experience and the extracurricular activities you were involved with.

Here’s a more detailed list of what each section of your resume should include:

Resume header . Your resume header should include your contact information. Open with your first and last name, which should be a slightly larger size or otherwise emphasized above all else. Include your location ([City, State] is fine), phone number, and professional email address. If you have a LinkedIn or an online portfolio , feel free to include a link to those here as well.

Important tip: Never put your contact information into an actual header on your word processing software. Some applicant tracking systems (robots that parse resumes to weed out unqualified candidates) can’t read the information in a header.

If the ATS can’t find your contact information, your resume will be thrown out before it even reaches a human reader .

Resume objective statement . We normally steer job-seekers away from resume objectives toward resume summary statements .

However, it’s perfectly appropriate for a college student to use a resume objective instead. Be sure to keep it short (1-3 sentences), include keywords from the job description, and state your relevant skills and career goals.

That being said, if you have substantial or impressive work/internship experience under your belt that truly makes you perfect for the position, opt for a resume summary statement that emphasizes your qualifications and expresses your value to the employer.

Education . Depending on how valuable you find your education section as compared to your experience section, you can swap the order around. We put education third based on the assumption that it’s your most valuable asset at the moment.

Your education section should always include the following information:

Name/Location of the school you attended

Dates attended, date graduated, or anticipated date of graduation

Name of your major/degree

The rest of the information is optional, but more is usually better (especially if the rest of your resume is light):

GPA (if it’s over 3.5)

Minor (if relevant)

Academic honors (Latin titles, Dean’s List , Honors Programs, etc.)

Merit scholarships

Publications and/or research

If you really want to beef up your education section, you can also include more details about relevant coursework . This can be a great way to incorporate keywords from the job description and showcase that you have solid foundational knowledge.

Experience . Once you’ve progressed in your career, this will be a history dedicated to your work history, but for now, keep the heading more open-ended by calling it something like “Relevant Experience.” The reason why this heading works is because it allows you to put down a whole host of experiences in just one section. Items you can put here include:

Work experience (summer jobs, part-time work, etc.)

Internships

Volunteer work

Freelancing experience

Relevant coursework (if you didn’t include it in your education section already)

Study abroad

Club membership/leadership positions

In general, you should keep things in reverse chronological order (the most recent stuff first). Always be sure to quantify your accomplishments whenever possible. Make it easy for a reader to see what value you added to each experience you were a part of.

Extracurriculars. If you’re a part of one or many extracurricular activities, it might be worth including a separate section detailing your involvement with each. Be sure to highlight the key skills you picked up from each experience to show how it relates to the job you’re applying for.

Skills . You’ve certainly acquired some skills during your time in college. Try to give a healthy mix of hard skills and soft skills . Hard skills are those you must be taught, and be tested or measured in some way. Soft skills refer to the intangible, interpersonal qualities that make you great to work with.

Where you can, add a bit of detail to flesh out each skill more fully. For example, if you put down “HTML” as a skill, give a brief description like “wrote webpages during a 3-month internship with XYZ Inc.”

Also, try to make sure that each soft skill you list comes with a correlating piece of data in your experience section. For instance, if you write that you have excellent communication skills , there better be some proof of those skills in action elsewhere on your resume.

Hobbies and interests . If you’re still not at a full page , you can consider adding relevant hobbies and interests. Even something seemingly irrelevant, like a love of working on miniature models, can paint a picture of a candidate who regularly hones her attention to detail in her free time.

Remember, every resume should be job-specific . You should b e tailoring it to each job you apply to. This will help you get noticed by hiring managers.

With that in mind, check out this current college student resume example:

Prateek Student

102 University Blvd. | University, CA 33409 | (555) 555- 5555 | [email protected] CAREER OBJECTIVE Dedicated outdoor education student with extensive teaching experience seeking hands-on internship opportunities.

PRE-PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE The Pool Pros, University, California Lifeguard Senior Manager and Educator (June 2015-May 2018

• Managed over 100 lifeguards at three public pool locations.
• Completed 20 training classes for lifeguard certification and recertification each season.
• Organized and implemented water conservation and education classes for 50 students per season.

Outdoor Leadership Liaison and Leader, (August 2017- May 2018)

• Organized outdoor excursions for 200+ university students.
• Led training workshops for outdoor skills monthly to 20 students per workshop.
• Kept communications between outdoor nonprofit leaders and university officials to ensure the safety of university students while on excursions.

National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), Lander, Wyoming Wilderness Medicine and Rescue Semester Team Leader, (August 2018- May 2019)

• Led 15 students on two semester-long wilderness immersion school expeditions.
• Trained students in wilderness safety, leave no trace principles and each student completed Wilderness EMT certifications.

EDUCATION CERTIFICATIONS California State University , University, California Bachelor in Outdoor Education and a minor in emergency medical response GPA: 3.90 Graduated May 2018 Received NOLS scholarships for a semester abroad in India. Dean’s List all semesters.

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) , California Licensure Wilderness EMT certificate expiration date May 2020 EMT certification expiration date May 2020 BLS Healthcare responder expiration date August 2021

Here is a college student resume template to help you get started on yours. Be sure to tailor your resume to fit your needs and the position you are applying for:

Your name [Address, City, State ZIP code]| [Phone Number] | [Email Address] | [LinkedIn Profile (optional)] CAREER OBJECTIVE Dedicated and motivated college student seeking [Internship/Part-time] EDUCATION [Degree Pursuing, e.g., Bachelor of Science in Computer Science] [University Name, City, State] [Expected Graduation Month, Year] [GPA: X.X/4.0] Relevant Courses [Course Name] [Course Name] PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE [Job Title] [Company/Organization Name, City, State] [Dates of Employment] [Brief description of responsibilities and achievements] [Job Title] [Company/Organization Name, City, State] [Dates of Employment] [Brief description of responsibilities and achievements] EXTRACURRICULAR [Club/Organization Name, Position held, Dates] [Brief description of your role and contributions]

When writing a college student resume, you should include action verbs to help show what you did and be sure to keep your resume relevant to the job you are applying to. Here are some more tips to keep in mind when writing yours:

Use action verbs. Action verbs help you show a potential employer what you did. Some example action verbs to use are:

Proofread. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is sending your resume in without proofreading it first. Take an extra couple of minutes and read through your resume for any spelling or grammar mistakes. You can even have a friend or a professor look over it to catch anything you might have missed.

Choose the right format. You want your resume to be easy to read so make sure you choose a format that won’t get tossed aside because it has a million different fonts and colors. The top resume formats to use are chronological, functional, and combination.

Keep it relevant. You only want to add the relevant information. They won’t want to hear about your pottery club if you are applying for a tech company. Rereading the job description is a great way to know what relevant information you should include. This will

Get help. If you are completely stuck, ask for help. They have centers at most colleges that help with this kind of thing. They won’t judge you for having the wrong format or too much information. The entire point of college is to learn and get prepared for the workforce, and getting help is doing that.

Getting help will also give you feedback on how to improve your resume. Career centers are the best places to get help with resumes and cover letters .

Keep it to one page. Since you don’t have much experience, your resume should be one page long. If your resume is too long, potential employers will pass yours over. Keeping your resume to one page will also help you keep it relevant and concise.

Select the right font. The font that you use should be professional and easy to read. The most professional fonts are sans-serif or serif fonts and examples of those include Calibri, Helvetica, and Georgia .

What should be on a college resume?

A college resume should include education history, relevant jobs, extracurricular activities, leadership experience, and any skills relevant to the job.

Since college students may not have much work experience, it’s important to emphasize your education history and any relevant jobs that may have armed you with skills for the job you’re applying for.

You can also demonstrate your abilities by including volunteer work, internships, or extracurricular activities.

How do you write a resume for a college application?

The five things you need to write a resume for a college application are:

Your relevant contact information

Detailed education history and test scores

Experiences

Awards/honors

Any additional skills you’d like to share

These are the different sections required for a resume for a college application. Most sections are self-explanatory, but your experiences section might be a little tricky for some.

In this section, you have the opportunity to differentiate yourself because you’ll want to articulate more than your responsibilities. Focus on your accomplishments and provide numbers for context and scale.

Do you need a resume for college?

No, you don’t need a resume for college, unless a school specifically requests one. The items typically requested on a college resume are typically things that are asked on your college application.

However, resumes can be used to streamline this information and can be advantageous for those with extensive leadership achievements in and outside of the classroom.

A resume can also be used to tell a story, rather than just a list on an application, and can allow applicants to expand on experiences not mentioned in other places.

How can a college student make a resume for a first job?

A college student should include contact information, a resume summary, education, experience, skills, and any additional achievements on their resume for a first job. The candidate should have the relevant experience to draw on for an entry-level job by including all of this information.

Many managers hiring for entry-level jobs understand that college students may not have extensive work experience and will be looking for certain keywords throughout the resume that highlight education, experience, and skills.

Education can include your degree or any special training, experience may include work, volunteer, or internship experience, and skills may include anything that highlights a good fit for the open position.

How long should a college student’s resume be?

A college student’s resume should be one page. Resumes should be this length so that employers and hiring managers can review them quickly. Typically those looking to hire a candidate only have a few minutes to review a resume, so you should make sure it’s relevant and succinct, with all of your impressive information listed early.

Once you gain more experience, your resume may become longer but is typically only recommended for those applicants with over ten years of experience in the workforce.

How do you write a resume for college with no experience?

When writing a resume for college with no experience, be sure to emphasize your education instead. Your education and experiences in school will be key in helping you craft an effective resume for college. Be sure to include relevant internships, any soft or hard skills you possess, and projects you may be proud of.

You may also want to include hobbies, interests, certifications, languages spoken, or any additional achievements you may have received, whether they were in or outside of an academic environment.

What makes a college resume stand out?

Any relevant experience you have will make your college resume stand out. Your relevant experience may include any internships, volunteer positions, or extracurricular activities. To get an idea of what relevant experience you should include, reread the job description. This will include any keywords that you can add to help make your resume stand out more.

Adding any relevant awards or achievements can help your resume stand out. Awards and achievements help show any potential employer that you have the skills and abilities to do the work.

Writing a resume as a current college student is exciting because of the flexibility you have in crafting it. Every college student will have a unique resume and that’s a great thing because it helps you stand out from each other.

When writing a resume as a current college student, keep in mind that the best way to make your resume stand out is by taking advantage of the many opportunities being in college gives you.

Try new things: take on a new project or volunteer opportunity. It not only will help your resume but will also give you great pre-professional experience that will help you decide which career path you should take .

Harvard Extension School – Resume and Cover Letters

University of Pennsylvania – Undergraduate’s student resume samples

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Heidi Cope is a former writer for the Zippia Career Advice blog. Her writing focused primarily on Zippia's suite of rankings and general career advice. After leaving Zippia, Heidi joined The Mighty as a writer and editor, among other positions. She received her BS from UNC Charlotte in German Studies.

Don Pippin is an executive and HR leader for Fortune 50 and 500 companies and startups. In 2008, Don launched area|Talent with a focus on helping clients identify their brand. As a Certified Professional Resume Writer, Certified Digital Career Strategist, and Certified Personal Branding Strategist, Don guides clients through career transitions.

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22 College Student Resumes That Landed Jobs in 2024

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Writing Your College Student Resume

Companies sometimes require that entry-level candidates have experience, but how do you get experience when even entry-level jobs make it difficult to apply?

Getting that first job or internship can be the most challenging part of your career. Fortunately, as a college student, you’re in a great position to get that first break you need. Once you get your degree, you’ll have the experience employers are seeking, but until then, how can you build an effective resume or write a cover letter as a college student?

After reviewing countless  resume samples , we’ve determined what types employers want to see from college students. Furthermore, we used that knowledge to create  22 college student resume examples to help inspire your resume in 2024 .

College Student Resume Example

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• This lets employers know when you can work full-time. Whatever you do, be honest. Stretching the truth won’t get you any points with employers. It’s better to be upfront and willing to learn a skill rather than try to succeed by the skin of your teeth.
• The golden rule on your college student resume is to lead with your strengths. If you’ve got a relevant internship, add it. If you’ve done any related class projects, list them. No matter what you include, make sure to highlight transferable skills.

Undergraduate Student Resume

• To impress the recruiter, demonstrate the dedication you have had in your previous posts despite minimal experience.

University Student Resume

• In that case, your university student resume can capitalize on your analytical skills, which helped identify cost-saving opportunities and cut overall expenses by six percent.

College Student No Experience Resume

• Luckily, there are a host of  resume templates  you can use to format your experience well, so long as you adjust based on your qualifications.
• For example, you can add or remove sections based on the amount of work history you have (or don’t have).
• For example, being on the club basketball team may feel irrelevant to business analysis. But by focusing on how you’ve organized practices and led a local volunteer effort, your  college student no experience resume  can point to qualities that might appeal to a thoughtful employer.

Current College Student Resume

• A reverse-chronological format is still the most accepted, but if you want to highlight your skills, try using a functional format instead.
• Adding relevant metrics shows that you know what matters to your employer and you’ve positively impacted your previous workplace.

College Student for Internship Resume

• That’s okay—you can weave in other things, like projects and part-time jobs. Of course, if you do have internship or job experience, put that at the top.
• It’s as easy as checking the  job description . Then just list your relevant abilities according to what matches the keywords listed by the employer.

College Student Assistant Medical Laboratory Technician Resume Example

• Do you have a unique interest related to science? Are you involved in a sport? Do you volunteer? All of these hobbies are great additions to your resume.
• If you’ve just graduated, you can bulk up your education section.
• Feel free to add any college awards you won and your GPA (if it’s higher than 3.5).

College Student HR Executive Assistant Resume

• As a rule of thumb, we recommend including one if you’re light on experience or are going through a substantial career change. Otherwise, leave it out in favor of work experience. 
• Good skills to include on an HR executive assistant resume are “talent acquisition,” “conflict resolution,” “legal compliance,” and “compensation/benefits.”
• An even more effective way to breathe life into your skills is to weave them into your work history or project bullet points.

College Student Case Assistant Resume

• Show off your personality using contrasting colors, classic fonts, and well-organized layouts. Our ready-to-build  resume templates  or handy  Google Docs interactive resumes  can help you keep your resume both tasteful and personable.
• If you don’t have certification, then now’s the best time to get it. Better late than never!

College Student Resident Assistant Resume

• Though an objective isn’t required, it can help employers see your skills and experience straight away.
• Just make sure to tailor it for every job you apply for by including the name of the employer, the position you’re seeking, and some matching keyword skills (that are true about you) gleaned from the  job description . 
• You also shouldn’t feel limited by your work experience. If you’ve done any relevant projects or have volunteered, include them! Employers love to see transferrable skills like collaboration, a good work ethic, and organization.

College Student Warehouse Worker Resume

• If you’re struggling to get going, consider using a  resume outline  to help you structure your experience—just don’t forget to fill out all the sections thoroughly!
• While it’s not impossible to land an excellent job without internships or experience, having some kind of work history, even in the form of projects, will allow you to be more picky and skim from the top of warehouse positions.

College Student Teacher Assistant Resume

• Adjusting formatting details, like the layout and header colors, can make your resume pop and reveal a bit about yourself. (Red and pink are bold, daring colors, while blue and green are calming.)
• Adding a  hobbies and interests section to your resume  can also help catch the eye of employers, provided you list hobbies that are relevant to the desired job, such as creative pursuits, volunteering, or research.
• Even if you’ve never had experience as a teacher assistant, you can instill confidence by demonstrating the impact of your communication skills. Did you effectively resolve an issue using negotiation? Write something that added helpful clarity? Show how you used communication to affect others positively!

College Student Biology Lab Technician Resume

• Don’t get too carried away here; after all, it’s still a resume and not a flier for a Wednesday Night Disco. But, one to two colors can be appropriate for all but the most conservative working environments. 
• Numbers can be frustrating to calculate and add to your resume, but trust us when we tell you that they make a world of difference. Hiring managers are consistently more willing to interview people with metrics on their resumes, as they convey job competence and confidence.

College Student English Tutor Resume

• Breaking up each work experience into bullet points can make your resume both easier to read (with fewer blocks of dense text) and easier to write.
• Instead of writing one big chunk of cohesive text, you can focus on pulling out as many highlights about your work history at each job as possible. 
• A project can be anything. Seriously, your final group project from that writing seminar counts, or you could highlight a blog you’ve been working on in your free time.
• Hint: Projects also make great stories to discuss on your college student cover letter .

College Application Resume

• Suppose you’re applying for a Bachelor of Arts in education. Express your passion for teaching and eagerness to advance your knowledge of education theories and practices. Even better, emphasize your long-term ambition to shape future generations through innovative education methods.

College Admission Resume

• Take a leaf from how Brian narrates his stints as a restaurant server, project presenter, and volunteer. Well-described, such experiences paint a picture of a well-rounded character who can take on varied challenges of an engineering program, enhancing their appeal in the eyes of the college admissions committee.

College Freshman Resume

• Use past projects to advantage here even if they’re only a year long. Clearly state how you used skills such as Canva and Microsoft Teams to make specific impacts during this time. Another great addition to your college freshman resume is any work experience under your belt.

Harvard College Resume

• You see reputable (and free) spell checkers like Grammarly? They’re your backstage crew making sure that your Harvard college resume is polished—no typos, grammatical mistakes, or punctuation errors in sight. And getting a friend or family member to take a peek? It’s always a brilliant move.

College Level Resume

• It’s a piece of cake. Maybe you’ve been a superstar nanny or the quickest cashier around. Identify competencies from these gigs, whether communication, time management, or leadership, and then blend them into your work experience. Simply put, connect the dots in your college level resume, and you’re golden.

College Student Academic Highlights Resume

• Say you have some work experience, but it’s not relevant to the job. That’s okay—instead of trying in vain to match the  job description , focus on transferable skills like customer service, organization, event planning, public speaking, and computer literacy.
• If you lack much work history, adding projects, coursework, or volunteer experience is the next best way to showcase your potential. You can also list your involvement in clubs, organizations, or peer mentorship.
• Write them like you’d write work experience by using active verbs and incorporating metrics (numbers).

First Year College Student Resume

• Your time contributing to a project is tangible evidence of your skills and experiences. Depending on what you include, it could showcase your communication and organizational skills or more technical abilities, like your proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Freshman College Student Resume

• Do you love gardening or nature photography? Awesome, it shows you’re inherently passionate about biology. Do you spend your time baking as well? It’s a sign that you know how to follow instructions and observe changes over time—skills that will come in handy as a lab assistant.

Related resume guides

• College Graduate
• Grad School
• Entry level

Before we dive into the difference between a  resume objective  vs. a  resume summary , let’s get some definitions out of the way:

• Resume objective : A statement of your qualifications, interests, and skills that make you a good fit for the role to which you’re applying.
• Resume summary : A summary of your past experience detailing your high-level accomplishments and projects.

When you’re applying for a job or internship as a college student, you likely won’t have extensive work experience. So, we’d recommend including a resume objective instead of a resume summary.

The goal of your resume objective is to set the stage for your resume. It should highlight your skills applicable to the job at hand, and it should be specific for each job to which you’re applying.

Most resume objectives are boring and generic. By taking the time to craft a customized and effective resume objective, you give yourself an edge over other applicants and increase your chances of getting an interview.

Before we dive into the rules for creating a strong resume objective, let’s look at some examples.

Sample college student resume objectives

• “Recent college graduate with a degree in marketing looking for a full-time role where I can utilize my experience in social media and paid advertising to help an up-and-coming brand like Club Z! Inc. spread awareness and acquire more users.”
• “Diligent college student at the University of Pittsburgh who is equally committed to academic excellence (3.8 GPA) and service (student leader at the local food shelter) looking for an opportunity at Unidos as a part-time employee to utilize these talents to improve customer satisfaction.”
• “Recent graduate with a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) seeking an opportunity within an established management organization to utilize my organizational and quantitative abilities. Epic seems to have a culture of empowering employees to have ownership over their problems, and that culture fits my work style perfectly.”

You can see that all of these resume objectives specifically mention the company that the student is applying to. Tailoring is the golden rule of resume objectives.

Here are some other rules to make your objective the best it can be:

• Again, take the time to  customize your resume objective for each company to which you’re applying .
• Don’t be afraid to inject your personality. Making an impression will help you stand out among the hundreds of other applicants.
• Keep it to two to three sentences.
• Mention any relevant skills or certifications you have for the role to which you’re applying.

College Student Resume Formats

One of the hardest parts of using a resume maker  as a college student is the blank page. The “getting started” part is overwhelming—you’re unsure what your resume should look like, let alone what should be in it!

When it comes to formatting your resume, the best advice is to keep it  simple . You need to convincingly make the case that you deserve an interview for the role to which you’re applying.

In short, your resume should likely contain the following sections:

• Header: This is your name and job title. Have your job title match the job title to which you’re applying.
• Resume objective: We talked about this above, a quick summary of your skills and what you’re seeking.
• Education: As a college student, this should include your anticipated graduation date, the field of study, and relevant classes.
• Skills: List six to ten technical skills relevant to your career.
• Work experience: If you have any relevant internships or part-time jobs, mention them here.
• Projects: Did you do any side projects that demonstrate your competency? Include them!

Not all of these sections need to be included in your resume.  Your resume should focus on your strengths.

If you don’t have much relevant work experience, you can omit that section in favor of discussing your projects or classwork.

However, no matter what format you choose, there are a few writing guidelines you should adhere to throughout your resume.

Formatting guidelines for your resume

• Keep your resume to one page! Your resume should only extend to a second page when you have 10+ years of experience.
• Avoid any spelling or grammar errors by double-checking your text and having a friend review your resume. Don’t let typos be the reason why you don’t get an interview.
• Break up your work experience into small, consumable bullet points. Nothing is harder to read than a big wall of text.
• Use reverse-chronological order to keep your most recent experience/projects at the top.
• Don’t include fancy images or graphics. It’s highly likely a computer will read your resume before a human ever does, and images are hard for computers to scan.
• Don’t list more than ten skills on your resume. (We’ll expand on this below.)

Skills to pay the bills

When building your skills section, it can be tempting to list any and every skill you know. You’ll have to resist this temptation.

Before a human reviews your resume, an automated system called an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) will score your resume based on whether or not it includes the “right” keywords. These filters are largely screening for specific skills.

Doesn’t this mean that you should include as many skills as possible to beat the ATS? Unfortunately, you need to make your resume appealing to both the ATS and a human, and nothing is a bigger red flag to a hiring manager than a candidate with a laundry list of skills!

You’re much better off focusing on  six to ten skills you’re an expert in  than including more that you kind of know. Generally, if you wouldn’t be comfortable being interviewed on a given skill, don’t include it on your resume. 

Work Experience and Projects

In any resume, no matter the career stage, your work experience and projects should take up at least 70 percent of the overall space. These will decide whether you get an interview or not.

Once you have a few years of experience, then the size of your projects section will decrease as the size of your work experience section expands.

If you have an internship relevant to the job you’re applying for, this should be listed in your “work experience” section. As a college student, your work experience can also contain any part-time jobs you had while in school, even if they don’t seem relevant to the position to which you’re applying.

It’s not easy to balance work and school, so having a part-time job demonstrates responsibility and drive.

When talking about your work experience, there are a few key tips you should follow:

• Mention the skills you demonstrated on the job.
• Quantify the impact of your work whenever possible.
• Talk specifically about your role; avoid being too general.
• Use action verbs like “owned” or “led” to highlight your leadership abilities.

Numbers truly speak louder than words, especially on your resume. By providing numerical context around your work, you show your ability to contribute meaningfully to your workplace.

Compare these two descriptions of an internship. Which do you think would be more compelling to a hiring manager?

WRONG – general work experience descriptions

Marketing Science Associates April 2020 – Current, New York NY Digital Marketing Intern

• Created testing plan for Facebook ad copy
• Built key reports for the executive team around KPIs
• Oversaw the creation of the blog for SEO purposes
• Worked closely with clients to understand their product positioning to incorporate into ad copy

RIGHT – specific, quantified descriptions

• Created A/B testing plan for Facebook ad copy, improving ROI by 15%
• Built key reports for the executive team around KPIs such as marketing spend, new leads, revenue generated, and ROI
• Oversaw the creation of the blog for SEO purposes which grew from 1,000 to 5,000 monthly organic visitors
• Worked closely with clients to understand their product positioning to incorporate into ad copy, leading to client satisfaction of 99%

Projects can be anything

If you don’t have much (or any) relevant work experience for your resume, don’t fret. You can still  create a highly effective resume  by showcasing your projects.

As a college student, you’ve likely done a lot of class projects that are relevant to the job or internship you’re looking to get. This is the perfect place to talk about those projects. You can even mention projects you completed outside of class. Talk about your goals, the methods/skills you used, and the project’s outcome.

The key is to include anything that will convince the hiring manager you have the drive, skills, and ability to translate your academic knowledge to the real world and contribute to the roles for which you’re applying.

Here are some potential projects you can work on for different majors:

Project ideas for college students

• Are you a business student? Detail a case study that you analyzed and presented in a class.
• If you’re a marketing student, you can write a short blog post about how you’d improve the paid marketing strategy for a company you admire.
• As a graphic designer, this is a great opportunity to talk about some of the projects in your portfolio.
• If you’re looking for a data analyst role, talk about how you analyzed stock data to determine areas of opportunity.
• As a human resources major, you’ve likely created processes for companies as part of a class, so talk about that.
• Software engineering students complete meaningful coding assignments all the time. Discuss one of those or talk about your side project.
• If you’re looking to break into product management, discuss a hackathon you were part of or create a case study for a feature your favorite product is missing.

Basically, the projects you include on your resume can be just about anything. They simply have to demonstrate you know what is required of the kind of role you’re applying to, and that you can meet those requirements.

Your Education Section

As a college student, it should go without saying that you need to include an education section on your resume.

Here’s what you need to include in your education section no matter what:

• The school you’re currently attending (or recently graduated from). You do not need to include your high school.
• Your graduation date (or expected graduation date). You can give just the month and year.
• The kind of degree you’re working toward (bachelor of arts, bachelor of science, master’s, etc.).
• Your field of study.

Once you include all that, there’s more flexibility. If you have a strong GPA (greater than 3.5), you should include it, too.

If you don’t have much experience yet, then you can add relevant courses or awards to your education section, provided they’re relevant to the job for which you’re applying.

For example, if you’re applying for a role as a data scientist, then it makes sense to include any math, economics, or programming classes you completed.

Here’s an example of an effective education section for a college student looking for a marketing role:

If you received any awards or honors during your time in college, list them here. These can include getting on the Dean’s List, any department-specific awards relevant to your major, or formal recognition for your work or volunteer efforts.

Resume Builder for College Students

There you have it—we’ve discussed the building blocks to help you land a job or internship as a college student!

In summary, here are the keys to making an effective resume as a college student:

• Inject your personality into your resume objective and customize it for each company to which you apply.
• Your resume format should include a header, resume objective, skills section, education, and work/ project experience.
• Include any relevant internships or part-time jobs you’ve had during college and quantify the impact of your work.
• If you don’t have much working experience, include relevant projects you’ve completed either in the classroom or on your own time.
• Your education section is your chance to highlight classes you’ve completed that will convince the hiring manager you have the right tools for the job.

Finding a job or internship as a college student can be incredibly stressful. Building an AI resume  is a huge first step, so pat yourself on the back. After you’re done with the writing, you can  check your resume  against our AI-powered tips to see how your resume matches up.

Just remember, it does get easier after you get some experience first. We can’t wait to see where you’ll go!

• We’ll show you how, step-by-step • Real, practical tips and tools • 100% free

College Resume - Examples & Writing Guides for 2024

You’ve just sat down to write a college student resume.

An A+ resume that converts.

Whether you need a part-time job to cover your bills or a college internship for more experience, we are here to help.

This guide will take you through a simple step-by-step process of creating a college student resume. 

• An example of a finished college resume that works
• How to write a college resume that’ll fill up your interview diary
• How to make your college resume stand out [with top tips & tricks]

For some added inspiration, here’s a college student resume example, created with our very own resume builder :

The above example gets serious results, and yours will too. Simply follow the steps below.

Check out some of these related resume examples that you might be interested in:

• No Experience Resume
• Internship Resume
• Research Assistant Resume
• Students and Graduates Resume
• High School Resume
• Teacher Resume

How to Format a College Student Resume

The first step when creating any resume is to pick the best resume format.

Formatting has a number of benefits, but mostly it allows the hiring manager to read your resume with ease.

The most common resume format for a college student is “functional” or “skill-based”, which allows the hiring manager to immediately see the benefits in hiring you. We recommend college students starting with this format.

Students will usually have stronger skills than their work history, which makes the functional resume a good choice. It’s also ideal for those who have gaps in their employment history.

Now that you have the best format, you need to organize your resume layout .

Use a College Student Resume Template

Before you go ahead with crafting your college student resume, you may want to use a college student resume template.

A resume that is neat and orderly will be a breeze for recruiters to read.

Oh, and it’s the best way to prevent formatting issues.

What to Include in a College Student Resume

The main sections in a college student resume are:

• Contact Information
• Volunteer Experience
• Extracurricular Activities

Want to go a step further? You can also add these optional sections:

• Awards & Certification
• Personal Projects

Interests & Hobbies

But what should you write for each of these sections? Read on to find out.

Want to know more about resume sections? View our guide on What to Put on a Resume .

How to Correctly Display your Contact Information

Now, this section doesn’t require flair, but it must be factually correct. Messing up the contact section can mean the recruiter can’t contact you – oops! 

The contact information section must include:

• Title - In this case, “College Student” or “High-school Graduate”
• Phone Number – Proofread this multiple times
• Email Address – Use a professional email address ([email protected]), not one from your childhood ([email protected]).
• (Optional) Location - Applying for a job abroad? Mention your location.
• Abigail Pearce - College Student. 101-358-6095. [email protected]
• Abigail Pearce - Student. 101-358-6095. [email protected]

How to Write a College Student Resume Summary or Objective

So, this is a job you really want.

This may even be a job you NEED.

However, your competition is fierce. 

And with so much competition, you need to convince the hiring manager within the first few sentences.

To do this, use a resume summary or objective .

These are short paragraphs that go on top of your resume, just under your contact information. They give an overview of your entire resume.

But what is the difference between the two sections?

A resume summary is a 2-4 sentence summary of your professional experiences and achievements.

Dependable marketing sophomore with 1 year part-time experience in a marketing internship to oversee marketing campaigns that maximise profit. Experience includes PPC campaigns, SMM, web design, brand development, and more.

A resume objective is a 2-4 sentence snapshot of what you want to achieve professionally.

Current undergraduate sophomore in marketing with hundreds of classroom hours in marketing and sales related courses. Passionate about maximizing revenue with effective marketing campaigns. Experience includes creating campaigns for my own personal projects in my first term at College X. Skilled in WordPress, Facebook Ads Manager, Photoshop, ClickFunnels, and more.

So, which one is best, summary or objective?

Those with some work experience should go with a resume summary. On the other hand, those who seriously lack work experience should go with a resume objective.

How to Make Your College Student Work Experience Stand Out

Recruiters like to feel confident that you can do the job. There is no easier way to do this than to list your work experience .

Here’s the best way to structure your work experience section:

• Position name
• Company Name
• Responsibilities & Achievements

The Pizza Cabin

03/2019 - 01/2020

• Served food to 40+ people a night and multiple tables at a time.
• Educated customers on menu items and daily specials.
• Received 98% positive customer feedback.
• Engaged customers in a personal, yet professional manner, which helped me to win “Employee of the Month” 4 times.

To separate your resume from the competition, you should focus on your achievements instead of daily tasks. This will allow the recruiter to see the obvious benefits in hiring you.

Instead of saying:

“Served customers”

“Served food to 80+ people a night and multiple tables at a time”

Simply, the first statement is way too vague. There zero chance the recruiter will be impressed by this.

The second statement shows that you were able to serve 80+ people and multiple tables at a time. This tells the recruiter that you are able to work under pressured conditions and to time constraints – impressive!

What if You Don’t Have Work Experience?

Now, not every applicant will have worked in a similar job before.

If this is you, there is a simple way to get around this.

Simply call-upon crossover skills from any previous jobs.

For example, if you held a customer service role at a local pizza restaurant, you can talk about any crossover skills and experiences. Just like a sales associate, you would be able to show you used strong communication and sales skills.

As a student, make sure to check out our student resume guide!

How to Correctly List your Education

Next, it’s time to talk about your education.

Whether it’s a college junior resume or college sophomore resume, your education section is crucial.

There’s nothing too complicated with this section, just simply enter the information for your in-progress degree in the following format:

• Degree Type & Major
• University Name
• Expected Graduation
• GPA, Honours, Courses, and anything else you might want to add

Majoring in Marketing

University of Chicago

2019 - Present

• Relevant Courses: Principles of Marketing, Managerial Communications, Quantitative Methods, and Macroeconomics.

Now, you may have some questions on this section. If so, here are the answers to some of the most frequent questions that we get:

• What if I haven’t completed education yet?

As we mention above, you should still mention your current place of education, despite not finishing yet

• Should I include my high school education?

If you have not yet finished your college degree, you should also include your high school education

• What do I put first, my education or experience?

Experiences are the priority, so those go first

Want more information? Check out our guide on how to list education on a resume .

Top 10 Skills for a College Student Resume

You’ve got all the skills.

But here’s the thing –

Your competition is well-skilled too!

Show the hiring manager that you’re the top candidate by listing your best skills.

But what are the best skills for a college resume?

Create a list of hard skills and soft skills that you have developed so far in life, such as the following:

Hard Skills for a College Resume:

• Microsoft Office
• Typing Speed
• Copywriting

Soft Skills:

• Creative Thinking
• Communication
• Time-Management
• Team Player
• Decision-Making

Tailor your skills to the job description. You can have the best skills in the world, but the recruiter won’t appreciate them if they’re not relevant to the job.

Here’s a more comprehensive list of 100+ must-have skills this year.

What Else Can You Include?

We’ve now covered every essential resume section .

But the school bell hasn’t rung just yet.

You need your resume to stand out!

Acing the above sections should be enough to get you shortlisted, but adding the following sections could give you a further advantage over the other applicants.  

Awards & Certifications

Have you ever won an award?

Have you completed any third-party courses?

Do you hold any specialized certifications?

Regardless of what it is, if there is anything that you’re proud of, be sure to include it here.

Here’s an example:

Awards & Certificates

• Food Handlers Card & Food Safety Manager Certification 
• “Critical Thinking Masterclass” – Coursera Course

Need to speak multiple languages at your new job?

Yes or no, being able to speak a second language is impressive.

And with so much competition, this could be the difference.

Add a language section if you have space. 

Rank the languages by proficiency:

• Intermediate

Now, you may be wondering, “why would a recruiter want to know that I’m a part of the football team?”

Well, it allows the recruiter to get to know who you are on a personal level.

But it doesn’t stop there…

Certain hobbies demonstrate that you have soft skills, like teamwork and communication. 

Here’s which hobbies & interests you may want to mention.

Include a Cover Letter with Your Resume

Your resume should now be ready to send.

No application is complete without a convincing cover letter.

In opposition to a generic resume, a personalized cover letter shows that you care about working for this specific company .

Here’s how to structure a winning cover letter:

You should complete the following sections:

Personal Contact Information

Your full name, profession, email, phone number, and location

Hiring Manager’s Contact Information

Full name, position, location, email

Opening Paragraph

It’s no secret that recruiters skim through their pile of resumes. As such, use concise language to mention:

• The position you’re applying for
• Your experience summary and best achievement to date

With the recruiter intrigued, you can get deeper into the following specifics:

• Why you chose this specific company
• What you know about the company
• How are your top skills relevant for the job
• Which similar industries or positions have you worked in before

Closing Paragraph

Don’t just end the conversation abruptly, you should:

• Conclude the points made in the body paragraph
• Thank the recruiter for the opportunity
• Finish with a call to action. This is a good way to keep the conversation going. A simple “At your earliest opportunity, I’d love to discuss more about how I can help you achieve X” will work

Formal Salutations

End the letter in a professional manner. Something like, “Kind regards” or “Sincerely.”

For more inspiration, read our step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter .

Key Takeaways

Building a college resume doesn't have to be hard.

Follow the tips in this guide for a college resume that is head & shoulders above the competition. 

Here are our best tips on how to create a college resume:

• Make your resume easy to read by formatting it correctly. Prioritize the reverse-chronological format, and then follow the best practices on content layout
• Use a resume summary or objective to hook the recruiter
• In your work experience section, highlight your most notable achievements to date
• Include a convincing cover letter to separate you from the competition

Suggested Reading:

• How to Make a Resume with No-Experience [21+ Examples]
• 21+ Essential LinkedIn Profile Tips For Job-Seekers
• Use Resume Keywords to Land the Job [880+ Keywords]

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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: 

• Early Childhood Educator resume sample
• College Student resume sample
• Student resume sample
• Academic Librarian resume sample
• Health Educator resume sample
• ESL Teacher resume sample
• Tutor resume sample 
• Teacher Assistant resume sample 
• Substitute Teacher resume sample
• Middle School Teacher resume sample
• Elementary School Teacher resume sample
• College Professor resume sample
• Internship resume sample
• High School Teacher resume sample
• Academic Tutor resume sample 
• College Admissions resume sample
• Academic resume sample
• Education resume sample
• Research Assistant resume sample
• Teen resume sample
• School Counselor resume sample
• Instructional Designer resume sample
• Camp Counselor resume sample
• Special Education Teacher resume sample

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.

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College Student Resume Example With Summary Statement

How to Write a Student Resume With a Professional Summary

When a college student has to prepare a resume, it can be difficult because they may not have much professional work experience. The good news is that your academic, extracurricular, and other experiences can still show an employer you have the qualifications and know-how to do the job—if you present this information correctly on your resume.

Here's how to prepare a resume as a college student, including tips for writing a professional summary and an example to use as you write your own.

What to Include in Your Resume

Begin with a resume summary statement. A  resume summary statement  (also known as a resume summary or summary of qualifications) is a list or a few sentences at the top of a resume that highlights your qualifications for a position. It is a great way to quickly show an employer why you are a strong candidate for a position.

Resume summary statements can be useful at any career level, including as a college student.

The summary statement should be located below your name and contact information. In a few sentences (or bullet points), state some of your skills and accomplishments that make you an ideal fit for the job. Try to include  keywords  from the job listing.

Mention a strong GPA. Along with your school and degree information, include any achievements, such as a high  GPA  (3.5 or above) and academic awards (Dean’s List, scholarships, and other honors).

Emphasize your teamwork and leadership skills. Employers are always interested in job candidates who have demonstrated personal initiative in assuming leadership roles and proven themselves to be productive team members. Be sure to describe all leadership positions you have held within campus organizations or in academic team projects.

Emphasize all related experience. Even if you do not have much employment history, you can include  volunteer experiences and any extracurriculars related to the job. You can put all these experiences in a section titled “Related Experience,” or divide them into different sections.

Tips for Writing an Effective Resume for a College Student

Highlight your education. As a student, you should highlight your academic successes at the beginning of your resume, before the “Experience” description. If you have completed any projects or taken courses related to the job you are applying for, you can include these as well.

Finesse your experience section. Even if you don’t have actual work experience, you should still include an “Experience” section in your resume. In this section, you can describe your college program, internships, or volunteer work you have performed. Instead of using the header “Professional Experience” for this section, use a more general title such as “Research and Analytical Experience,” “Related Experience,” or “Experience Highlights.”

Look at other resume examples. Look at some  resume examples  or templates to guide your writing. A resume example can help you decide what kind of content to include, and a template can help you format your resume. However, be sure to tailor a resume example to fit your own experiences and the job you are applying for.

Proofread. Proofread your resume carefully before submitting it. A clean, error-free resume will show you are professional and you pay attention to details. Ask a friend or family member, or a college career counselor, to read the resume for you as well.

Related: Best Resume Writing Services

Resume Example With Summary Statement

Below is an example of a resume for a college student that includes a resume summary.

Louise Lerner 87 Washington Street Hopedale, NY 10003 (555) 555-1234 louise.lerner@email.com

• An honors student with a record of academic and extracurricular success
• Extensive leadership experience, particularly within a higher education setting
• Adept at working across departments, with faculty, administrators, and students
• Award-winning written communication skills

XYZ University Hopedale, New York: Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy Cumulative GPA: 3.93; Honors recipient every semester (Expected graduation: May 2025)

Georgetown University Study Abroad University of Trier, Germany (Summer 2024)

American University Washington, D.C.: Washington Semester in American Politics (Spring 2024)

RESEARCH AND ANALYTICAL EXPERIENCE

U.S. Department of Education, Washington, D.C. Intern , Spring 2024 Generated concisely written synopses of current legislative action for use by the department, members of Congress, and the general public through the Department of Education website.

• Researched and presented to policymakers several successful school design and construction projects to support the “Administration Schools as Center of Community" proposal.

American University, Washington, D.C. Research Assistant ,   Spring 2024 Examined how the increasing dependence of needy students on federal loans instead of grants for higher education has affected college access and enrollment, culminating in a 65-page paper.

• Received “Outstanding Final Paper” award.

Historical Society of Hopedale, New York Research Assistant ,   Spring 2023 Researched archival materials, wrote text panels, and selected objects for a historical exhibit on Hopedale in the 1930s.

More College Student Resume Samples

Here are more examples of resumes for college students and recent graduates, with downloadable templates, that you can use as a starting point for your own resume:

• College Graduate Resume
• College Senior Resume
• College Resume Example and Writing Tips

Key Takeaways

Use a summary statement. Beginning your college student resume with a summary statement allows you to highlight your relevant job skills even if you lack extensive professional experience. It’s a smart way to catch the interest of a hiring manager right off the bat.

Showcase your achievements. Don’t hesitate to “toot your own horn” on your resume: Describe your GPA (if it’s above 3.5), academic achievements, and contributions to campus and community organizations.

Highlight related experience. Participating in extracurricular activities and campus organizations helps to develop teamwork, communication, and leadership skills that are very attractive to employers. Describe how these experiences have provided you with many of the soft skills that will enable you to be a productive employee.

How to Write a College Resume That’ll Get You Hired (Plus an Example!)

When you’re in college, a strong resume is one of the first things that helps you land an internship or part-time job. It represents you to employers when you can’t be in the room (yet!) and is essential to convincing them to call you for an interview based on your previous experiences and current skills. Whether you have a resume you used for college applications or are starting completely from scratch, putting effort into your resume now gives you a higher likelihood of success and sets a solid foundation, making it a breeze to update in the future as you—and it—evolve.

If you feel like you have nothing to put on your resume, don’t worry. After advising hundreds of students on these documents, I know you have more to offer than you think! I frequently meet first-year college students who believe they can’t include many of the things they did before college on a resume. You absolutely can—and you should—until those get outranked by all the other awesome things you’ll accumulate over the course of your college career. Even if you’re a freshly minted high school graduate, you have valuable skills and experiences employers want, and this guide can help you showcase them.

Read on to learn about what goes on your resume, how to format it, and what else you can do to ensure it makes you shine—and to see our college resume example.

What Goes on a College Resume

In setting up your resume, you should use a few core sections to help you easily lay out all the information a recruiter is looking for when they make quick decisions about whether or not to interview you. (And yes, recruiters do skim, reportedly spending an average of 7.4 seconds making their first pass on a resume, so you want to make a good impression fast).

Contact Info

It’s traditional to start with your basic contact information at the top of your document including your name, email, phone, and the city and state where you live. Use your full name (and maybe bump up the font a point or two because you’re a big deal!), and if you have a nickname you prefer, you can include it in parentheses.

Use your college email as it’s typically professional and establishes your educational brand. Now is also a good time to check that your phone’s voicemail greeting is up-to-date. In case a recruiter calls while you’re busy—or you don’t recognize the number and swipe it to voicemail—this greeting could be their first impression of you. Even recording something as simple as, “ Hello, you’ve reached Christine. Please leave a message and I will return your call as soon as possible, ” can help them feel confident they reached the right person and that you’re able to present yourself professionally.

Your physical location can be based either on your school’s address or your permanent home address. If you’re targeting opportunities in one location or the other, include the most local address so they know you’re familiar with the area (and likely won’t have a problem finding housing).

Pro tip: Save space by listing your email, phone, and location all on one line. If you have a LinkedIn profile , you can add that in your contact information section as well. The result might look like this:

Karla Perez Stillwater, MN ∙ (000) 765-4321 ∙ [email protected] ∙ www.linkedin.com/krperez

For college students, education should be right below the contact information on your resume. This immediately orients your reader to the fact that you’re a current student and conveys important information, like what you’re studying. What you include in your education section can also demonstrate that you’re a good match for the opportunity you’re targeting, increasing your chances of a recruiter call.

The basics you should always include are:

• Your school’s name
• Your expected graduation date
• The type of degree you’re pursuing: For example, you might write “Bachelor of Arts” or “Associate’s Degree.”
• Any majors, minors, or concentrations: If you’re applying to opportunities in these areas, this will help an employer see you already have some knowledge and a motivation for working with them.

Depending on your personal strengths and what jobs you’re applying for, you might also want to include:

• Your GPA: But only if it’s strong. (It’s usually good to include 3.5 and above.) If you stumbled through some of the general requirements you had to take but nailed all the courses in your major, consider adding two GPAs—your cumulative GPA and your major GPA—to show you have stronger grades in your chosen discipline.
• Standardized test scores: If you’re applying to opportunities in quantitative fields, like finance or consulting, you might consider listing standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT.
• Relevant coursework: Selecting and highlighting three to five classes that match closely with the specific opportunity you’re applying to is a really fast way to tailor your resume and make you a more attractive match. For example, if you’re targeting an internship in computer science, you can list your “Introduction to Python” and “Introduction to Algorithms” classes.
• Other colleges or universities you’ve attended: If you’re a transfer student or you studied abroad at another university, adding these schools can signal that you have other strengths, such as cultural awareness or language skills, or give you a chance to highlight key classes you took elsewhere.
• Your high school: If you’re shooting for an opportunity local to your high school or went somewhere well-known, then you may want to keep that as your last entry for educational experience. Otherwise, high school is the first entry to cut when you’re short on space. It has gotten you to where you need to be, but the focus should now be on the higher-level degree you’re working on and you should dedicate as much space as you need to boast about all of your amazing college accomplishments!

Here is an example of what a completed “Education” section might look like:

Candidate for Bachelor of Arts degree ,   St. Olaf College , Northfield, MN Double Major: Political Science and Economics ∙ Expected Graduation: May 2023 ∙ GPA: 3.7 Relevant Coursework: Introduction to Political Theory, Politics and Human Rights, Global Interdependence

The experience section is where the real substance of your resume lives. This is the chance to show a snapshot of the jobs and internships you’ve had (if any), the work you did, the skills you used, and your accomplishments. Let’s talk about what experience you can include, how to pull out skills and demonstrate your value, and what it should look like on the page.

Experience can cover a lot of things. It can be full-time jobs, part-time jobs, internships, or research. Unpaid work—like volunteer and community roles—counts too! Don’t discount the value these other kinds of experiences can add to your resume just because you didn’t earn money. You can leverage all of your experiences on a resume by pulling out transferable skills , or broader talents you’ve developed that will be beneficial even if you aren’t applying to the same type of role.

Take a significant class project, for example. That can be built out as experience as long as you’re clear it was for a class. If you worked on a group project, you probably collaborated on a team, organized, worked under deadlines, completed some independent tasks, presented your work to others, and had some kind of outcome. Even if you were doing something that might not seem widely applicable, like designing a rocket, many of those skills can transfer over to another role. Say you had to do cost comparisons for the materials you selected for your rocket, those same analysis skills could be useful to a business role or for a part-time job where you have to order supplies for a restaurant.

You can also create targeted headers for your Experience section(s) if there are themes that correlate with the internship or part-time job you want. Specific headers—such as “Research Experience,” “Marketing Experience,” or “Software Engineering Experience”—can immediately help your reader see that you’re aligned with the needs they have for their open role.

If you don’t have something that specific, it’s OK. You can still shift your experiences into categories like “Relevant Experience” and “Additional Experience.” For example, if you’re applying to research roles, you’d want to put any research related work under “Relevant Experience,” and your cashier job and website building side hustle would go under “Additional Experience.” These two headers are great for allowing you to bump the best of your experiences up toward the top of your resume.

Once you decide which headers to use, make sure each entry includes basic information—the title of your role, the organization’s name, the location, and the dates you worked there—along with bullet points describing what you accomplished. For example:

Intern , Minnesota State Senate , St. Paul, MN June 2019–August 2019

• Researched prior legislation and current bills, summarized content, and identified alternate actions
• Coordinated the schedule for Senator Harriet Maxwell and kept accurate minutes for all meetings
• Drafted memos for important interoffice updates outside of normal meeting schedule

A skills section is a great way to make your most valuable knowledge and expertise stand out—and be easily spotted by a recruiter. Which skills belong in your own skill section depend on the jobs you’re applying for, so be sure to read the job description carefully to figure out what skills are most relevant for each particular role.

Skills that might appear in this section include (but are definitely not limited to): technical skills; software or other tools you know well; languages you can speak, read, or write; other job-specific skills like using a POS system or cash register; and, for some jobs, even your ability to drive different vehicles.

From this range, you can see why it’s important to change things up based on what job you’re applying to! Some skills—for example, being fluent or conversational in a second language—might be relatively permanent fixtures on a college resume. If you’re looking for a part-time job waiting tables, you might add the fact that you can bartend, whereas you might list your mastery in JavaScript instead when going after that software engineering internship you have your eye on.

Once you’ve decided which skills are most important for this role, you can simply list them on your resume. If you have a few different types of skills, you can separate them into categories. For instance:

Languages: Spanish (Fluent); Russian (Basic) Software: JavaScript, Python, CSS

Note that just listing your skills in a separate section isn’t always enough. You also want to make sure to describe how you’ve used key technical and job skills elsewhere on your resume (usually in the bullet points of your experience section).

Other Optional Sections

There are some other sections you can consider adding depending on your experiences and what your target employer might be looking for. For example, a consumer product firm might be looking for examples of design work. In that case you could add a section called “Design Projects,” which might include significant assignments from some of your academic classes or independent projects that you’ve developed in your spare time. Don’t be afraid to include links to your work if you’re submitting your resume online! (Just avoid hyperlinking out from important words, as this could trip up the online systems that scan most resumes.)

Another popular section is “Leadership Experience” where roles like being the vice president for one of your student organizations or being a co-captain for your athletic team would be a good fit. Employers love to see leadership themes on resumes, as it demonstrates the transferable soft skills they’re looking for like communication, collaboration, and initiative.

An “Activities” section can also demonstrate skills. If you dedicate time to learning more about consulting cases with your consulting club, you likely increased your analytical skills in a team setting, which is valuable for many business roles. If you’re an athlete, you can showcase your ability to manage your time, create or be part of a cohesive team, or organize and motivate teammates during practices. These skills gained as an athlete can be ideal if you’re applying for a heavily collaborative role. Additionally, if the activities that you’re involved in are directly applicable to the job, these are powerful to include as it demonstrates interest and dedication. So if you’re majoring in healthcare administration, adding that you’re a member of the Healthcare Society on your campus can be a major plus for an employer.

Any optional sections like these will usually need to be set up similar to your experience entries. Include the organization (or class), your role, the location, the dates you participated, and your key achievements. Here is an example of an entry you might put under a “Leadership” heading:

Head Delegate , Model United Nations , Northfield, MN September 2019–April 2020

• Researched global topics such as human rights and sustainable energy and developed persuasive positions
• Represented Chile as a delegate in an education simulation at a conference with 2,000+ participants; negotiated with others and collaborated on common goals to deliver resolutions on political issues
• Liaised between the delegation and the Secretariat, serving as a first point of contact and resolving issues

6 Tips for Writing a Successful College Resume

From formatting to crafting strong descriptions, attention to detail can pay off when tackling your resume. Here are six tips to help you develop a great resume:

1. Choose the Right Resume Format for You

Your parents or other family members might share their resume and have you copy it because it has worked for them. But they’re at a different place in their career and their format may not be the best one for you.

There are three main types of resume formats for laying out your experiences, skills, and education—the functional resume , the combination/hybrid resume , and the chronological resume . The chronological format is almost always the best fit for college students.

With a chronological resume, you’ll list your experiences within each category/section in reverse chronological order (most recent to least recent, based on end date). Since this is the most traditional and common resume format, recruiters are familiar with it and can quickly see what you have to offer.

2. Be Clear and Consistent

In terms of resume formatting, there are a lot of small choices to make about things like font, style, and spacing. Whatever you decide, make sure it is easily readable, consistent, and not overly fancy. You could have the greatest content in the world, but if it’s too difficult or annoying to read, a recruiter is going to move on.

In order to make a document easy to scan, use clear headers for your sections. Maybe they’re bold and in all caps, or maybe they’re a couple font sizes larger, but they should be the same throughout your resume. The rest of your content should be consistent as well. For example, all your organization or previous employer names might be in italics, your dates all right aligned, your locations in plain text, and the titles of your roles in bold. Keeping things uniform helps the recruiter easily absorb all the relevant information you want them to have.

3. Make Sure It Can Pass Through an Application Tracking System (ATS)

Formatting is also important because your resume will likely pass through something called an applicant tracking system (ATS), a type of software that helps recruiters organize incoming candidate applications. Recruiters can apply filters or search for keywords, and the ATS will show candidates matching the desired criteria, making it easier to identify good candidates in large applicant pools.

In order for your resume to pass this first round and make it to the human who has the power to get you to an interview, the ATS needs to see you’re a good match. But there are formatting choices that can confuse an ATS—for example, some won’t read the content inside tables, text boxes, or graphics. And if the ATS can’t read your materials, your resume might be filtered out. (Read more about formatting your resume for an ATS here .)

This all means that using one of the fancy resume templates you see online isn’t necessarily the best move . Most basic formatting can be achieved with bolding, italics, and spacing, and you will still end up with a good-looking resume—meaning that starting with a blank document can actually be a better bet. (If you still want to use a template, we’ve curated 41 free ATS-friendly templates here .)

4. Create Impactful Descriptions

Give the descriptions you use for your experiences some TLC, as this is what recruiters will focus on once you’ve caught their attention. I often discover students undersell—or simply forget—all the things they’ve done that might be interesting and of value to an employer (including those transferable skills).

Here’s an exercise that can help. Reflect on an experience (such as an internship you had or volunteer work you completed) and quickly jot down what you did. You don’t need to have much structure for this—try it as a brainstorm. Think about answering some of these questions:

• What was your role?
• What were the goals for that position or experience?
• What tasks did you specifically do?
• What projects did you work on?
• Were there any side projects or tasks you completed?
• Who did you work with?
• What did you contribute?
• What did you accomplish? (Or what did/do you intend to accomplish? This can be a useful way to think about things especially when considering research or longer term projects that are still in progress!)
• Can it be quantified? Numbers can paint a clear and impressive picture of your accomplishments to someone reading your resume. You might write that you fundraised as part of the Student Government Association, and that will generally get your point across, but if you can say you increased SGA fundraising by 30% and were able to create two new social events attended by 100+ students each, that will make more of an impact. Look for ways to quantify your accomplishments wherever possible.

Once you have a good brainstorm, take the information you gathered and try crafting several statements using this formula:

Action Verb + Subject + Outcome/Purpose/Result (i.e. Accomplishment)

So you might say:

Organized a fundraiser event for 70 participants resulting in $1,000 in donations to a local hospital

Your descriptions are most valuable when leading with an action verb that reflects specific skills. For example, swap “Worked on” for “Collaborated on” and “Responsible for” with “Oversaw.” Other verbs I often recommend students use include:

• Communicated
• Facilitated

5. Tailor Your Resume for Each Opportunity

Always tailor your resume to each specific job you apply to. Making it easy for the recruiter to connect your skills to what they are looking for can increase your chances of success. The job description is your blueprint and key to doing this. A couple of these exercises could help you identify what you’ll want to highlight.

• Activity 1: Take the job description and go through and underline everything you’ve had some experience in. This might be specific tasks, software/programs/tools, or qualities. Write a quick note in the margin to highlight when you’ve done that. Underline things where you have transferable skills too. For example, if you’ve used a software that is similar to a software they’re looking for, underline it. A recruiter should be able to see on your resume that you used similar skills and would be a quick study.
• Activity 2: If you aren’t sure which skills to emphasize, take the entire job description and pop it into a simple online word cloud generator, like TagCrowd . It automatically shows you the words most used in the description, which are likely of highest importance to the company or role. If you have those skills, make sure you mention them in your descriptions and mirror the language as exactly as possible (our friend the ATS will be looking for precise keywords!).

These activities can help you identify the right action verbs, keywords, and tools—like software—to weave into your descriptions. They can also help you decide what past experiences to include or which of your college courses are relevant to this role and which direct and transferable skills to highlight to make your resume a stronger fit for your target job.

6. Keep a Few Other Tried-and-True Tips in Mind

Here are a few other parting tips to keep in mind as you build your document:

• Avoid writing in first person (“I,” “we,” “our,” and “my” statements).
• Bullet points will make your document more readable—usually two to three per entry works well. But it doesn’t have to be even: Give more description space to the most relevant entries.
• Attention to detail matters. Proofread—not just for typos, but to make sure formatting is consistent (like date dashes). Employers will use your resume to make assumptions about how detail-oriented you are.
• Review any headers you put in all caps. Some spell checkers are programmed to assume that they’re acronyms and skip them.
• Ditch jargon and acronyms wherever possible. Don’t assume the reader always knows what you’re talking about. Sometimes the first person reading your document is a general recruiter and not familiar with the technical side of a role.
• Be aware of tenses. If you’ve completed an experience, those descriptions will be in past tense, and current roles can be described in present tense. (If you’re still actively involved in a role you can list the role through “Present,” and if more than one entry has the same end date, make a strategic decision to put the most relevant experience first.)
• Acceptable margins are usually between one and 0.7 inches.
• Pick a readable font, like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, and try not to go below font size 11.
• As a college student, stick to a one-page resume. However, you should consider keeping a longer version (called a master resume) for your own personal use. That’s where you keep a full record of your experiences to make it easier to pull out the relevant ones each time you tailor your resume for a specific job.

What Does a College Resume Look Like?

A college resume should showcase your education, experiences, and skills (direct and transferable!) in a clear way, while keeping in mind what is most relevant to your target employer. The resume below shows a student highlighting their relevant education and experiences specifically for internship opportunities in government and politics.

Download sample college resume

There are many ways to write and format a resume. Ultimately, you want one that best represents you and your accomplishments to recruiters for the job at hand. Try out some of these tips, and I hope they help you succeed in catching that recruiter’s eye!

• • Performed software development and testing of 10 project websites
• • Learned how to operate with databases and performed data modeling
• • Worked with a team of 5 colleagues to deliver an innovative e-commerce application
• • Took additional courses on the development of AI programs and blockchain technology
• • Learned how to install, modify and make minor repairs on personal and business computers
• • Built 4 professional websites
• • Excelled in mathematics, intelligent systems and algorithms and complexity
• • Learned how to perform troubleshooting and fix bugs
• • Educated 100+ street children in computer systems and how to work with OS
• • Social worker in the streets of Boston, MA
• • Coordinated 30+ volunteers
• • Contributed to the development of 1 project of web development
• • Resolved 20 assigned job requests and incident tickets
• • Assisted in handling 11 execution proceedings
• • Assisted in product development from conception to end-user stage with a success rate of over 95%
• • Personally provided tier 1 technical support to clients for their computer and software issues
• • Participated in performing a web database testing of measurements for over 2M+ clients to enhance the management of customer data
• • Installed Windows and hardware systems components for 1000+ college staff and students
• • Operated a help desk that supports 2000+ remote associates

8 College Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

Customize this resume with ease using our seamless online resume builder.

All resume examples in this guide

College Student No Experience

College Student For Internship

Scholarship

Undergraduate

First Year College Student

Freshman College Student

College Student Teacher Assistant

Resume guide.

College Job Market

Writing a College Student Resume

Resume Summary

Resume Experience Section

College Student Skills

Key Takeaways

By Experience

You want a job ASAP, but you have little to no work experience?

Recruiters preferred the man working 10 years in the industry to you?

Maybe this sounds familiar, especially if you are a college student.

Companies want to hire young and motivated people but at the same time look for deep experience.

We have cracked the code of writing an exceptional college student resume.

And we are eager to show it to you!

Are you ready for it?

Here is the 2022 ultimate guide that will show you pro tips, resume samples and step-by-step how to get a job.

“Even the greatest were beginners. Don’t be afraid to take that first step.”

Muhammad Ali, American professional boxer

Why this resume works

This college student offers a strong resume whose sections overlaps each other:

• The summary section describes the key factors that can help the candidate get a job
• Convincing internship bullet points backed up with action verbs
• References provide crucial evidence that the candidate is a self-motivated student
• Projects, Awards and Publications prove the student is a high performer

The college student job market

Only 50% of recent college graduates had traditional full-time jobs 6 months after graduation in 2020.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics data, 2020 college graduates saw a bigger decrease in labor force participation than those who graduated during the Great Recession.

Among all Americans ages 16 and older, the employment rate declined from 61% in October 2019 to 58% in October 2020.

These facts show hidden opportunities for self-motivated college students to jump-start their professional career.

How to write a college student resume

The focus of your college student resume should be on self motivation skills, a strong work ethic and acquired knowledge.

To stand out from the competition, you should focus on the key factors

Let’s brainstorm together:

A reliable college student should have a well-built Education section with clear and specific bullet points.

It must indicate that the student is engaged in different activities and performs very well.

Then the graduate should show some metrics: founded a chess club, published articles, participated in science competitions, and others.

Therefore, they should have admirable soft skills like communication, or hard skills-public speaking, computer literacy and others.

Follow this example and build your college student resume!

• Do you have any additional courses taken? List them immediately!
• Any references from tutors? Add them as well!
• You can also include a diagram that shows how your day passes.
• Also, it’s crucial to tailor your resume to the job description to increase the chance to get hired.

Yes, you can do it all! This is a winning approach and we will prove it too!

Follow the ultimate college student guide and learn how to build your Summary and Experience sections in detail!

Customer service resume formats

You can fall into the following 3 resume format categories:

• Reverse-chronological resume
• Functional resume
• Hybrid resume

Two main factors can impact your choice of resume format:

• Years of experience
• Industry experience

Reverse-chronological resumes are perfect for professionals having some years in a specific niche.

Functional resumes are a good option for people searching for a first job or career changers.

Hybrid resumes combine the best of both worlds. They are great for entry-level and experienced candidates.

Watch out for the style and layout ! Here are some resume tips :

• Font size should be 12p
• Use the optimal 10’ resume margins
• Use a one-page resume if you have less than 10 years of experience, otherwise- two-page resume
• Do not overlook your spelling , or you will miss your chance of an interview
• Save your resume in a PDF format

If you want your resume to stand out , you might consider adding additional sections like GPA and Certifications .

Top resume sections

• Education-it should show what you've learned from college and how you could put it into practice
• Experience-here you can list previous jobs or internships no matter what
• References from top industry professionals will help you stand out
• Projects & Publications prove that you have deep knowledge in the field and are ready to put it into practice
• A list of Soft and Hard Skills will help support your Education and Experience Section

What recruiters want to see

• Convincing Education section that proves your self motivation and industry knowledge
• How could you put knowledge from college into practice?
• What skills did you acquire from college?
• Are your tutors happy with your overall performance?
• Are you ambitious? Did you take additional courses or participate in projects/competitions/presentations?

Every section should prove that you are self-motivated and will bring value to the company you work for.

Recommended reads:

• Parts of a Job-Winning Resume: How to Choose Resume Elements
• Resume Sections: Everything You Need to Know
• Targeted Resume: 3-Step Process to Win Any Recruiter Over
• Resume Headings To Stand Out With

Impressive strategy for writing a college student summary

The Summary section is not a simple paragraph with a couple of sentences.

It shows how you can sell yourself and whether you can pitch everything.

Your summary introduces you as a motivated individual who strives for growth.

Therefore, it is crucial to put only those things about yourself that make you stand out.

Here are some tips for writing your College Student resume summary:

• Your mantra should be “Short and clear.”
• Mention facts that can be easily supported by quantitative data
• Add a Project or Award to differentiate from others
• Emphasize key achievement or valuable experience
• Concentrate on specific skills acquired from your education that you can put into practice

What you should definitely avoid is:

• Mediocre sentences like “I love reading!”
• Vague information you cannot support in the other sections from the resume
• Jokes or facts that might shift the recruiter’s focus

Here are some resume summary samples that might help you build yours:

If you have no experience, tailor the text to the job description/college expectations. Write down what you are looking for and how you can contribute to the organization. Then, support your statements with valuable skills and measurable goals.

Recommended reads.

• 83 Resume Summary Examples & How-To Guide
• 10+ Resume Objective Examples & How To Guide
• How To Write A Resume Personal Statement (With Examples)
• How To Write An Effective Resume Profile (With Examples)

College student experience: put knowledge into practice

You might say:

“ My God, I’m a college student! Am I supposed to have work experience? ”

Yes, you are!

Fortunately, you could mention an internship, training, or any job you had as well.

It’s not obligatory to mention industry experience. The recruiter wants to see that you are self-motivated and have practical knowledge.

The trick is to prove your experience in an intriguing and attention-catching way.

So, here are some tips to have in mind when writing experience bullet points:

• Use actions verbs to emphasize the experience
• Include numbers to prove professionalism
• Mention award/project/volunteering that you’ve been engaged in previously and the results from it
• Mention how your soft/hard skills helped you achieve your objectives
• Use high-performance metrics as a sign of self motivation and strong work ethic

It’s crucial to follow these 5 tips to produce a good Experience section.

Do not forget to tailor your experience with the job description!

Thus, you increase your chances of getting an interview call.

Ask yourself questions and write the answers in your college student resume. For example:

How did my knowledge from college/school help me achieve high-performance metrics at work?

How did communication and other soft skills help me get positive feedback from the boss?

What software helped me deal with the day-to-day tasks at work?

College student resume experience examples

• • Learned Spanish and German
• • Created valuable relationships
• • Finished college year with 7th biggest score in the class
• • Wrote articles and blog posts

These bullet points are so vague that a 2nd grader could write them better.

There is no quantitative data, achievements, awards, or metrics mentioned.

This college student has the 7th highest score in the class but missed the opportunity to prove his knowledge.

The recruiter will not pay attention to a sentence like “Wrote articles and blog posts.”.

If you do not prove yourself as a go-getter, you will definitely not receive an interview call!

• • Leveraged my Spanish and German by writing 30+ articles and blog posts
• • Worked with 5 colleagues on 2 social media projects and created valuable relationships
• • Collaborated with 8 industry experts in organizing a public event that raised $20,000
• • Excelled in Creative Writing and Marketing and finished the 3rd year with the score of 4 GPA

This college student takes the opposite approach.

He provides valuable statements supported with numbers and action verbs.

They leave the impression that they’ve achieved a lot and every recruiter would root for them.

Use the keywords from the job description! Try to add them in your experience bullet points. This way, you increase your chances of being noticed by 50%!

• How to Describe Your Resume Work Experience
• Resume Job Description: Samples & Tips To Help You Enhance Your Application
• Resume Without Work Experience: 6+ Sections to Demonstrate Impact
• Can I Leave a Job I Was Fired From Off My Resume?
• Lying On A Resume: Here's What It Can Cost You

How to fill up the gaps in your resume

Additional sections should support your statements:

• References from top industry professionals will be a clear sign that you are a high performer
• The well-built Achievements section is the perfect way to show recruiters that you can bring value
• Volunteering also proves your self motivation, organizational skills and time management
• An engaging my-normal-day diagram speaks volumes when it comes to time management
• Additional training/courses are a clear sign that you are a passionate learner

College student resume skills

It’s vital to list those skills in your resume relevant to your major!

They indicate that you can offer something interesting.

Moreover, do not forget to match the skills to the job description.

Find the balance between soft and hard skills and support your Experience section!

Schooling doesn't assure employment, but skill does.

Amit Kalantri, Wealth of Words

Top 10 hard skills found on college resumes

• Microsoft Office
• Public Speaking
• Multilingual/Bilingual
• Data Entry & Databases
• Google Drive
• General Computer Literacy
• Management Experience
• Productivity apps: Trello, Slack and others

Remember to connect your skills with other sections logically!

For example, when talking about an internship, support your statements with the skills that you’ve mastered from it.

Top 10 soft skills for college resumes

• Communication
• Attention to Details
• Strong Work Ethic
• Self Motivation
• Responsibility
• Active Listening

Key takeaways

• Show how your knowledge helped you excel in your work experience
• Add Projects/Publications/Volunteering/ Awards to prove that you are a self-motivated individual
• Use action verbs and quantitative data to indicate dedication
• Mention specific soft/hard skills that are accurate for the job description
• Emphasize achievements and support them with high-performance metrics

College resume examples

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

Looking to build your own College resume?

• Resume Examples

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How to Write a Resume for College – A CollegeAdvisor Guide

How to write a resume for college – introduction.

Standing out as a stellar applicant in the college admissions process is tough. One way to separate yourself from the crowd is by crafting a strong resume for college. Your college resume can highlight information about your background, activities, and achievements. Some of these might not be indicated elsewhere in your college application or recommendation letters . 

In this article, we will teach you how to write a college resume. We’ll highlight 5 simple steps to building your college application resume. We will also discuss what a college resume is and why you may need a resume for college. Additionally, we will provide examples on how to write a resume for college by reviewing college resume examples. Finally, we’ll walk you through some college resume templates in our example college resumes.

So, let’s look at how to write a college resume and explain what makes a good college resume, why you should include a resume for college in your applications, and more!

What is a college resume? 

A high school resume is typically a one-page document that complements your college application . Your high school resume (or college resume) can help you showcase your achievements and extracurriculars for college. It does this by sharing information that is not elsewhere within your college applications. The goal of a college resume is to show the college admissions officers who you are and how you spend your time outside of the classroom . 

Before we jump into how to write a college resume, let’s examine some things that make up a good college resume.

A good college resume should include: 

• Clear structure
• Concise language (bullet points over essay-style)
• Relevant details
• Strong formatting

As we discuss how to write a resume for college, you might wonder what purpose a college resume serves. In short, a college resume is a summary of experiences that you can use to add depth to your college applications. You can also think of a college resume as your high school resume, or a resume for college. Your college resume will include a brief description of each of your experiences and extracurriculars for college. 

While we examine how to write a resume for college, you should first note that your college resume should include key details like your educational details, GPA , extracurricular activities/jobs, and honors/awards. As we’ll discuss, your college resume will have other key features. We’ll go through each of these as we learn how to write a resume for college. 

Many colleges list a college resume within their college application requirements. But, even if a college resume is not listed in the college application requirements, we recommend creating one anyway. 

We will look at a sample college resume later in this article, along with a 5-step guide to creating a resume for college that you can use as you begin writing your college resume. 

Do I need a resume for my college applications? 

No, you do not necessarily need to include a college resume with your college applications. However, a high school resume or resume for college can be a helpful tool in the college admissions process. 

So, how could including a resume for college application be beneficial? First, including a college resume in your college applications can help highlight your skills, experiences, and qualifications to the admissions office of your dream school.  

Having a college resume can help you showcase your extracurricular activities in your college applications. You can highlight leadership positions, accomplishments, interests, and activities on your college resume that might not appear elsewhere in your college applications. 

Creating a resume for college application can also demonstrate your accomplishments and experiences to college admissions officers. Even if a high school resume is optional in the list of college application requirements, including one in your college applications can help you stand out. Standing out is incredibly important in the admissions process, especially if your ideal college is high on the list of college rankings . 

It is a good idea to start putting together your college resume as you near the end of high school.

You may forget the names of clubs, supervisors, mentors, teachers, etc. as you get ready to apply to college. So, the earlier you can gather all the information for your high school resume, the better! That way, all of your experiences are fresh in your mind, and you can create the strongest resume for college possible. 

When should I prepare my college resume? 

As you begin the process of applying to college, you might be wondering when to prepare your college resume. The ideal timeline for creating your high school resume can start as early as 9 th grade. 

In general, you won’t want to include anything on your high school resume before 9 th grade. Like other college application requirements, college admissions officers are only interested in the activities you have participated in during high school. 

Keep a list starting in 9th grade

As early as 9 th grade, you can start keeping a list of your accomplishments and activities. Even though you won’t need to format this list into a college resume yet, it will be the basis for your future college application resume.

As you begin the college admissions process, you can use the list you created and turn it into a college resume. As you apply to college and prepare your college resume, research which college resume format works best for you. Reviewing a sample college resume or college resume template can help you find the perfect college resume format. 

As you look through college resume examples, think about which aspects of the college resume template you like the best. Then, adapt things from those college resume examples to fit your college resume. Once you have decided on a college resume format, list your accomplishments, jobs, and activities within that college resume format. 

Summer before senior year

The best time to create your high school resume is during the summer before your senior year. This gives you plenty of time to perfect your college application resume. 

We’ll examine the necessary components of a successful college resume in the next section of this article. So, read on!

What should a high school student put on a resume? 

As you begin the college admissions process, you may be asking yourself what to include on your high school resume. You can start the college application resume writing process by brainstorming how you spend your time outside of your courses. 

Think about everything you have done or achieved since you started high school and write it down. Your high school resume should highlight your activities, interests, and skills. Pay particular attention to these factors as you consider what to include on your high school resume.

Your high school resume will be organized categorically. Some of the most common categories for a resume for college application include personal information, work experience, extracurricular activities, volunteer experience/community service, education, and skills.  In addition to the categories listed above, below is a list of some other things that high school students should list on their resume for college.

Top ten things to list on your college resume:

• School name and address
• Contact Info
• GPA or Class rank, if applicable
• Internships & volunteer roles
• Awards and honors
• Extracurricular activities
• Leadership positions
• Language competencies

As we mentioned earlier, you may not have information or experiences for every category listed above. That’s perfectly fine! Focus on what applies to you and what you can include on your high school resume as you learn how to write a college resume. 

What does not belong on my high school resume? 

Now that we have examined what to include on your high school resume, let’s discuss what does not belong on your college application resume. 

Keep it current

In general, you should avoid including any activity or achievement from before 9 th grade on your resume for college. However, it’s okay to include something that is particularly impressive and/or attached to a current activity. 

For example, if you have 12 years of experience in playing the violin, you will want to include that on your high school resume. However, if you joined your middle school band for a semester, you should likely leave that out of your college resume. Your resume for college should reflect activities that matter to you now.

Avoid listing daily duties

There is no need to include informal everyday activities on your college resume, such as cooking for your family or cleaning around the house. When you are crafting your resume for college, it’s best to stick to things that are relevant to admissions committees or future employers. 

Note that this is one area where your college resume differs from your activities list. For instance, if you spend considerable time caretaking your three siblings, you may choose to include that on your activities list within the Common App. However, the same responsibilities likely shouldn’t appear on your resume for college.

Keep it clear

As you examine college resume templates and college resume examples, take note of the language and structure in a sample college resume. It’s important to use concise language and clear structure throughout your resume for college. 

Additionally, do not include excessive text or overly detailed explanations on your college application resume. You want your resume for college to be simple and clear. In general, you should limit your high school resume to one page, or two at the absolute maximum. Most people who review your college resume will spend about 30 seconds with it. So, your resume for college should be easily scanned, above all. 

When you use concise language throughout your college resume, it will make it easier for your reader to understand your accomplishments. Because most people will skim your high school resume, having a clear structure throughout will make it easy to read. Keep it simple and keep it consistent. 

Steer clear of images and graphics

While you might come across this in your college resume format research, it’s best to avoid including images or graphics in your college application resume. Although this is a new trend and can be seen on multiple college resume examples and college resume templates, it can be distracting and take up valuable space on your high school resume.  

For instance, if you volunteered at twelve different soup kitchens, there is no need to list each one separately. That will become tedious and take up too much space on your essential resume for college application. 

Finally, you should never misrepresent your qualifications on your high school resume. Be honest about your involvements, however many you have. It’s not worth potentially getting caught in a lie or an exaggeration during a college interview.

Where do I submit my college application resume? 

While you apply to college, you might be wondering what to do with your resume for college applications. Many college application portals will include a section for your college resume, especially if a resume for college is listed as one of the college application requirements. 

Most college application portals list the high school resume section as optional. While you are applying to college, you might notice that most colleges require that you fill out an activities section as part of the application process. The activities section will ask you to list your extracurriculars for college. Often, your activities section will serve the same purpose as your college resume. 

If you choose to include a high school resume with your college application, it should reflect your accomplishments in more detail than your activities section. Additionally, if you choose to include a resume for college with your application, make sure it adds something new to your activities list. 

You will receive access to your college’s application portal once you have completed the process of applying to college but before you receive a college acceptance letter and officially enroll . When it’s time to upload your high school resume, be sure to upload it as a PDF rather than a Word document. That way, you can ensure that your formatting of your college resume stays consistent on every application. 

We’ll provide more details about the college resume format later in this article, when we examine college resume examples and college resume templates. 

How often should I update my college resume? 

It may be helpful to update your resume (or other records) every six months to a year in order to avoid missing any important details. You can use your college resume for more than just your college application requirements. In fact, there may be internships or other opportunities you seek out in high school that will ask you to submit a high school resume. Updating your college resume often will help you keep track of your experiences and accomplishments. 

In general, you should update your high school resume as often as it works for you. However, when you are almost done applying to college , you will want to make sure that your college resume is up-to-date and accurate before including it with your application. 

No matter how often you update your resume for college applications, we encourage you to keep copies of any old college resume examples you might have. Having old copies of your college resume can help you in the future as you begin to tailor your college resume for potential reviewers. 

How to write a resume for college

Now that we have a better understanding of what makes up a college resume, let’s focus on how to write a resume for college. You can begin writing your college resume by creating a list of your key details . Your key details will be the starting point for your college resume. 

First, you will include information about where you go to school, as well as your current GPA and any Honors statuses. You will also want to list your academic interests on your high school resume, including what you hope to study or pursue beyond high school. 

You will also include your extracurricular activities and the years you engaged in them on your resume for college. Additionally, you will want to add any jobs or internships you have had and the dates you held them. You can also list any leadership positions and the years you held them on your college resume. 

Finally, you will want to include any special skills you have on your resume for college. This can include certifications as well. 

Once you have a list of your key details, you will want to organize these details into sections on your high school resume. For some, these sections might include Objective, Education, Leadership Positions, Work and Internship History, and Special Skills.  

College Resume Walkthrough

Linked about is our college resume walkthrough. Let’s do another walkthrough of these sections here to see what kind of information to include in each one. 

Your objective is the reason why you are writing your college resume. This section will vary depending on where you send your resume. 

If you are creating a resume for college applications, you should include information about your intended major or future career in this section. However, if you are sending your high school resume to a potential employer, your objective section will include information about why you are uniquely skilled for the job. 

Education 

The education section of your college resume should include all high schools you have attended, along with your GPA and anticipated date of graduation. 

If your high school provides you with a class rank, you can also include that piece of information within this section of your resume for college. 

Additionally, you can include your SAT or ACT score within this section, especially if you are submitting your resume for college applications. 

Leadership Positions 

Be sure to highlight any leadership positions you have held in your college resume. This includes any appointed positions you have received and even informal leadership positions. 

For example, if you were voted Class President of your Student Council, you can include that information here. Or maybe you are a peer mentor on your soccer team—you can include those details within this section of your college resume. 

Work and Internship History 

This section of your high school resume will list your whole work history, including internships , summer jobs , or part-time jobs. 

You will want to include the job title, company, dates of employment, and a brief outline of your duties for each of the work or internship experiences in this section of your resume for college. 

Special Skills 

Finally, this section of your college resume will outline any technical or soft skills you might have. Soft skills include things like teamwork, communication skills, and conflict resolution. 

In this section of your resume for college, you can also include any languages you speak or certifications you have. 

After you have organized your high school resume into sections, you will want to include a bulleted list detailing your responsibilities within each of your engagements/leadership roles. Be sure to include only relevant details in your descriptions, as it’s important to be concise on your college resume.  

Remember to include the years for every role/activity on your college resume. You will want to list them with the most recent positions/activities at the top of your resume for college. 

College resume format

Your college resume format is one of the most important features to consider as you apply to college. As you construct your college resume format, make sure that it’s readable. 

Most people won’t look at your college resume for more than 30 seconds. So, any reader should be able to skim your high school resume and come away with a relatively clear idea of your qualifications and background. 

The ideal college resume format will have the name of the student clearly listed at the top of the college resume. Another aspect of a strong college resume format will have clear sections with strong headlines. Additionally, the best college resume format will include bulleted lists where appropriate. 

We will look at the college resume format in action as we review some college resume examples and college resume templates. 

College resume examples

As we review our sample college resume, we will explain how to use it to craft your own college resume when you apply to college. Use this sample college resume as a reference point for your resume for college. Then, adapt it to fit your own unique needs. 

We will discuss the sample college resume in the next two sections of this article. As we review the sample college resume, pay particular attention to what makes this college resume clear and effective. You can use this sample college resume as a college resume builder while you apply to college. 

At first glance, you can see that this college resume is organized. This resume for college has clear sections and a concise structure. What makes this college resume clear and effective is its formatting, language, and length. Be sure to incorporate these same elements into your own high school resume as you apply to college. 

Remember, this sample college resume is just one of many college resume examples available. Figure out what you like best about this sample college resume and use it to craft your own college resume. 

Sample college resume – What works? 

The key features of this sample college resume are its formatting, language, and length. Focusing on these in your own college resume will ensure that your resume for college stands out. 

Clear delineated sections

The formatting in this college resume works so well because it includes clearly delineated sections and organized by year. Keeping your information and experiences organized by year is an effective format for a resume for college applications. 

Simple and straightforward language

Another feature of this college resume that works well is the language. There is clear language and details throughout this resume for college that provide context for each role and accomplishment. For example, each of the work experiences in this high school resume feature a brief description of the student’s role and duties/responsibilities. 

Concise structure

Additionally, this resume for college application features a concise structure that helps the reader clearly understand the purpose of each section. The descriptions within this college resume are brief but comprehensive. Having a concise structure and clear language throughout your college resume is key. 

The final key feature that works well in this college resume is the length. This resume for college is just one page in length. Ideally, you want your college resume to fit on one page, but that is not a hard and fast rule. If you have a wealth of experiences and extracurriculars for college, your college resume can go over the typical one-page length. 

Even though this high school resume is a little over one page, it does not have any irrelevant details or extraneous information on it. As you begin writing your college resume, be sure to only include relevant details on it. 

As you learn how to write a college resume, keep track of what features work well and incorporate them into your own college resume. If you are unsure if the sample college resume will work for your college resume, don’t worry. There are plenty of college resume examples and college resume templates to choose from as you are applying to college. 

College resume template

There are multiple college resume examples that you can review as you start your college resume or college application letter . Looking at a college resume template can help you decide on the formatting, language, and length that works best for you. 

Hunter College has a web page with college resume examples and college resume templates. Use it as a resource as you build your high school resume. 

If possible, you should avoid using form templates as you construct your college resume. Instead, think of the college resume template as a guide. You should aim to format your resume for college in the way that works best for you. 

It’s best to be a bit unique as you create your high school resume. Looking at a college resume template can help you find your own distinct style. You can also incorporate different aspects from a college resume template into your own college resume. 

However, be sure to avoid any hard-to-read fonts or unnecessary details in your formatting as you learn how to write a college resume. While your resume shouldn’t look like it was made using a stock college resume template, it also should not be overly crowded.

College resume builder

There are also college resume builder resources, like this one from Wheaton College , that will help students build their college resumes. You can use a college resume builder to format your own resume for college. 

At CollegeAdvisor.com, we host webinars on topics that help you apply to college. We have a webinar on how to write a resume for college, with plenty of college resume examples. We also have a webinar with advice from former Admissions Officers on how to build your college resume. 

Once again, you should generally avoid a pre-formatted college resume builder or college resume template. Instead, use these college resume examples as a jumping off point as you begin the college admissions process. 

Formatting your high school resume yourself makes it easier to make any quick edits or fix any formatting quirks. If you were to use a college resume builder or college resume template, these adjustments may be a challenge. 

Build your College Resume in 5 Simple Steps

Having examined some college resume examples, let’s review 5 simple steps for how to write a resume for college. 

Five Steps to Build your College Resume

Make an accurate list of your experiences, awards, education, and qualifications. You will use this list as the outline for your resume for college. 

Choose the best college resume format for the job. Before you finalize your choice of college resume format , review a college resume template or college resume examples for guidance. Then, create a resume header for your college resume. 

Add your accurate information by section on your resume for college. Reference the college resume examples you reviewed previously to choose the sections you will use on your high school resume. Organize each list by year, placing the most recent item at the top of your resume for college. Be sure to separate your extracurricular experiences from your awards/honors, creating two lists (or more if necessary). 

Format your lists to be clear and readable , and add your name and contact information as the header of your college resume. 

Ask a friend, family member, or mentor to copy edit your resume for college! Having another set of eyes on your high school resume will help you create the strongest resume for college possible. 

How to write a college resume – Final Thoughts

In this article, we reviewed how to write a college resume. As we discussed the purpose of a college application resume, we examined college resume examples and described key features that work in a college resume. We hope the college resume examples we featured in our article on how to write a resume for college help you craft your high school resume as you apply to college.

Need help crafting the perfect college application resume? CollegeAdvisor.com can teach you how to write a resume for college. Register for a free CollegeAdvisor.com account and receive access to hundreds of articles and webinars. These resources will help you craft your college resume as you begin applying to college.

This article was written by  Claire Babbs . If you want to get help with your college applications from Claire or other  CollegeAdvisor.com  Admissions Experts , click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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How To Write a Student Resume in 2024

How To Create a Student Resume

What can you do common jobs for students and recent graduates, where can you work the best employers for students and recent graduates, where should you look for work student and recent graduate job boards, frequently asked questions about writing a student resume.

Whether you’re still enrolled in school or you’ve just walked the stage, creating a well-written student resume can be the foundation for your professional success. In this guide, we provide student resume examples and expert tips to create a compelling document that highlights your academic achievements and career potential. Learn how to identify and find the best opportunities for students.

Crafting an entry-level resume might sound like a tedious task, but it’s not as hard as it may seem. Start with a solid outline of your:

• Contact information
• Profile summary
• Education and relevant coursework
• Professional and/or volunteer experience

Before you begin typing up your document, collect all the information you need. It helps to make a page of notes to reference as you fill out each section. This allows you to gather your thoughts and determine the best way to organize information.

Student resume templates

Beyond including all the appropriate content, take a strategic approach to writing your resume. There are plenty of ways you can optimize your student resume that will help put you at the top of the consideration list.

For example, instead of creating one resume to submit to multiple employers, customize your document to the specific requirements of each position. Study the job posting and incorporate terms and phrases (keywords) into your profile, skills list, and any experience sections. Learn how to perfect your student resume today with our comprehensive guide .

Internship Resume Examples

College Student Resume Examples

About half of all college students are also employed, and across every industry, you can find entry-level jobs or internships suitable for current students and recent graduates alike. Organizations are constantly on the lookout for early-career professionals to fill assistant, intern, and specialist roles. Here are a few examples of some common entry-level positions.

• Content writer: Does writing come easy to you? If so, you could get a job as a content writer. These wordsmiths create written content for things like websites, blogs, and marketing campaigns. They use their skills to inform and persuade audiences. Companies hire these writers to create content that engages the target audience and improves their online presence.
• Data entry clerk: If you’re all about the details and have a knack for organization, data entry may be the perfect fit. This role involves tasks like verifying information, inputting data into computer systems, and maintaining records. Data entry clerks make sure office databases are up-to-date and error-free, enabling organizations to make accurate data-driven decisions.
• Financial analyst intern: Are you majoring in finance or otherwise good with numbers? Consider an internship for this high-demand occupation . Interns get practical experience analyzing data, creating financial models, and conducting market research. They assist finance professionals with evaluating investment opportunities and preparing reports using the latest financial strategies.
• Graphic design intern: Immerse yourself in a creative, collaborative setting with a graphic design internship. These interns work side by side with experienced designers to create visual art for advertisements, printed materials, and website content. This is a great opportunity for artists who want a glimpse into the day-to-day of professional graphic designers.
• Patient care assistant: Students interested in a medical career can get first-hand experience working with patients as a care assistant. These health care professionals provide direct care, assisting with things like activities of daily living, vital sign monitoring, and emotional support. They work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

Every year, Forbes collects data on the top employers for new graduates . We’ve studied the list for you and pulled together a diverse list of companies with the highest scores. From aerospace to health care, these organizations offer some of the best working environments for early-career professionals.

• Ally Financial: A leading financial services company, Ally Financial offers entry-level professionals valuable experience working in areas like banking, finance, customer service, technology, and operations. The company values innovation, customer-centric solutions, and employee development. Browse the company’s job board to launch your career in the financial sector.
• General Mills: This renowned consumer foods company has a rich history of producing popular brands like Cheerios and Yoplait. As an entry-level professional, joining its team offers an opportunity to contribute to innovative food products, sustainability initiatives, and global outreach. Use the search engine on the General Mills career page to review job openings .
• Google: This global tech giant offers entry-level professionals a chance to be at the forefront of innovation. Joining Google often means working on cutting-edge projects, collaborating with top talent, and shaping the future of technology. Head over to Google’s website to browse multiple internships across a range of departments and hundreds of job openings around the globe.
• Mayo Clinic: A renowned health care organization, it has hundreds of opportunities to contribute to patient care, research, and medical advancements. Working at Mayo can give you the chance to learn from top medical experts and provide excellent health care. Discover how you can make a difference in the medical field with an entry-level job at Mayo Clinic .
• The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA): This pioneer of space exploration and scientific research engages in groundbreaking missions with the latest technology. The organization offers the Pathways Internship Program , a multi-semester experience with a track to full-time employment after graduation. Visit NASA’s website to explore all entry-level positions .

You can easily bring your student or internship resume to any large job board like LinkedIn or ZipRecruiter. However, there are also special websites dedicated to helping students and graduates find paid positions and internships. Explore some of the sites below to find companies actively looking to hire entry-level professionals fresh out of school.

AfterCollege

Founded by a group of Stanford University students, AfterCollege is on a mission to help every college student and recent grad find the right career path. Partnered with Jobcase, a vast workforce empowerment community, the company prioritizes students and their success.

AfterCollege facilitates job and internship discovery with the promise of safeguarding student data. You can search its online career board by job title, keyword, and location.

Alumni Central

Alumni Central is part of College Central Network, Inc. (CCN), a company providing technology solutions and services to postsecondary educational institutions and their students. The company partners with colleges across the country to provide job postings and a library of podcasts and videos.

Simply create a CCN account and log in to access the database. Alumni Central has more than 2.7 million registered employers and over 500,000 jobs and internships across the U.S.

CampusCareerCenter

Yet another website that caters to entry-level job seekers is CampusCareerCenter. Recent graduates and current students will find a range of resources, including job listings, career advice, and tools for transitioning into the professional world.

The company hosts over 30 well-known employers, from Deloitte to the U.S. government. Although there are fewer job listings available on this website, you’ll find work opportunities with some of the top organizations in the world.

CollegeGrad

Created specifically for the college graduate, CollegeGrad assists early-career professionals with a range of resources and job listings. You can browse job openings by level, title, industry, and location and search for entry-level careers or internships.

The company also has its own mobile app for both iOS and Android, making it easy to keep track of current postings. You can also set up alerts with push notifications or explore the map feature and find jobs near you.

College Recruiter

This online job board is tailored to college students and recent graduates searching for internships and entry-level positions. Employers posting to this website are looking to hire college students specifically.

College Recruiter also offers a collection of articles for new job seekers, offering advice on job searching and career development. You can make a seamless transition from academia to the workforce with College Recruiter.

This unique job board was created for those seeking adventure and seasonal employment opportunities. It focuses on jobs in picturesque locations, such as national parks, resorts, and remote destinations.

If you’re looking for something a little bit out of the box and unconventional after years of schooling, CoolWorks.com provides an exciting way to combine work and exploration. Browse nearly 500 unique job opportunities and housing options.

Should you put your GPA on your resume? -

Whether a GPA is necessary or appropriate for your entry-level or internship resume depends on your score and the position you’re applying for. Do some research on the expectations in the field because some industries do value GPAs for early-career professionals.

Although fewer employers are looking to GPAs during the hiring process, a score of 3.5 to 4.0 can show you’re a high-performing applicant. At the very least, it can help you stand out from other candidates.

How long is a student resume? -

Most student resumes should only be about one page long, with the focus being quality over quantity. Just because you could fill three pages with academic and extracurricular achievements doesn’t mean you should. Multi-page resumes are usually only used for senior-level jobs and government positions.

Hiring managers only take a few moments to scan resumes, so a one-page document is often best. Potential employers only need the key takeaways from your background. If you want more space to explain yourself, a cover letter is the perfect place to do that.

How do I write a resume with no experience? -

Just because you lack paid work experience doesn’t mean you haven’t had any experience at all. You can pull from participation in school, clubs, and sports teams to highlight communication, leadership, and collaboration skills. Personal projects and freelancing can demonstrate self-motivation and initiative — valuable skills to hiring managers.

Instead of having a “Professional Experience” section on your entry-level resume, you can create a general “Experience” section and include “positions” such as sports captain, club leader, blogger, influencer, affiliate marketer, and more. Then, create bullet points under these experiences to detail the relevant tasks performed, measurable outcomes achieved, and skills gained.

What makes a student resume stand out? -

The best way to make your resume stand out is by tailoring it to each job you apply for.

Identify exactly what the employer is looking for by studying the job posting. Next, match up their requirements with your experience, skills, and education. Throughout your resume, use keywords from the job posting and include information from your academic and/or professional background that shows you can meet the needs of the organization.

Build a Resume to Enhance Your Career

• How to Build a Resume Learn More
• Basic Resume Examples and Templates Learn More
• How Many Jobs Should You List on a Resume? Learn More
• How to Include Personal and Academic Projects on Your Resume Learn More

Essential Guides for Your Job Search

• How to Land Your Dream Job Learn More
• How to Organize Your Job Search Learn More
• How to Include References in Your Job Search Learn More
• The Best Questions to Ask in a Job Interview Learn More

10 tips for writing a resume in English

Writing a resume can be challenging, especially if it’s not your first language! Grammar and spelling should be spot-on, plus cultural formatting preferences vary. For example, in the U.S., resumes never include photos, and are usually limited to a single page. Although style preferences vary, best practices are universal. 

Let’s look at some dos and don’ts for writing a resume in English!

DOs for writing a resume in English

✅ 1. DO use bullet points and incomplete sentences. Incomplete sentences may seem unusual, but not in resumes! For example, an applicant for a lab research assistant might list prior experience as follows:

• Implemented a research project
• Developed a serum

💡 Tip: You can put periods after the bullets or leave them off, as long as you’re consistent.

✅ 2. DO ensure verb tenses are consistent. Resumes follow parallel structure , meaning the starting words are the same part of speech. They can be verb phrases (example 1), or noun phrases (example 2):

• Organized data
• Assisted with administrative tasks
• Implementation of a research project
• Organization of data
• Assistance with administrative tasks

You can use either, as long as it’s consistent and easy to read!

✅ 3. DO only include relevant experience. It’s not necessary to list every experience or skill. You only have one page, but don’t worry, more will be covered in interview questions ! Focus on job listing requirements and highlight your most relevant skills and experience.

Example 1: For the lab assistant position, highlight relevant skills, especially those mentioned in the listing.

• Skills: coding, chemistry, research
• ❌ Don’t include “cooking skills,” even if you have them!

Example 2: For a restaurant job, it would look different!

• Skills: prepping, catering, customer service
• ❌ Don’t include “research skills.”

✅ 4. DO include all language skills, even your native language(s)! Language skills are helpful for ANY job: the more languages you know, the better! You can say you have "excellent written and verbal skills” wherever applicable, as both are incredibly valuable. You may think it’s a given, but it’s not! Employers will be glad to know that you’d never send an email saying “heres the doc 4 u,” or use other unprofessional-sounding language. 

You can also consider listing the CEFR level of your languages or using other standardized measures, like your Duolingo English Test score, and breaking down your proficiency by speaking, reading, writing, and listening , especially if relevant for the position.

✅ 5. DO include commonly relevant skills you have. Think about skills broadly: What are tools and technology you know how to use? What are things you do well, and what do your colleagues come to you for help with? Your skills might include things like software, including Microsoft Excel, Google Docs, and task-management platforms, or your abilities, like time-management skills.

💡 Tip: You can say “proficient” for more than just languages! For example, you can also say “ proficient in Microsoft Excel” to mean that you know how to use it really well. Again, just make sure the list is consistent:

• Microsoft Excel
• Time management
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel
• Excellent at time management

Now that we have the basics for a great resume, let’s highlight common pitfalls.

DON’Ts for writing a resume in English

The “don’t”s for a resume go hand-in-hand with the “do”s:

❌ 1. DON’T use “I.” This is unnecessary, as the employer knows you’re referring to yourself.

• ❌ “I implemented a research project. I formulated a serum.”

❌ 2. DON’T write full sentences for job titles. This takes up room, leaving less space for other experiences and skills.

• ❌ Job title: “I completed an internship at Duolingo Laboratories.” Instead, your title could be “Intern, Duolingo Laboratories."

❌ 3. DON’T use inconsistent tenses. This is easy to miss, and can make a resume look disorganized.

• ❌ Implemented a research project
• ❌ Organization of data
• ❌ Report writer

💡 Tip: Say each bullet point aloud to check for consistency. If you’re using verbs to start each bullet, you can say them as “I” statements to ensure they match: “ I implemented, I organization? Wait, it should be… I implemented, I organized…” Or for noun phrases, try “Implementation of a research project… (is what I did). Organization of data… (is good).”

❌ 4. DON’T use specialized language unless applicable. A recruiter or employer should understand what you’re talking about. You don’t want them to do extra work interpreting your resume, especially when they have a pile to sift through! If there’s specific vocabulary related to your previous experience, list synonyms:

• ❌ Monolingual exercise writer for Duolingo
• ✅ Content writer for Duolingo

❌ 5. DON’T use uncommon abbreviations. While YOU may know what they mean, an employer or recruiter may not. Stick to universal abbreviations and try to avoid jargon :

• ✅ PhD, Feb., CEO
• ❌ L&C, OSI, KR

💡 Tip: Consistency is key on a resume, and this also applies to abbreviations for dates! Don’t write “Feb-Oct” on one line and “July-January” on another.

Now that we’ve reviewed the dos and don’ts, let’s put it all together and see a sample resume section! Here’s how that former research intern might format their experience on their resume, and how they might format their “Skills” section:

Don’t let different formats and styles overwhelm you. Remember two things:

A resume is your potential employer’s first impression of you and your work, and we’re rooting for you! 💪

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Considering College at 25+? Here’s What To Know Before You Enroll

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Mary Williams, 52, says she is the first in her family to go to college. After an earlier stint at Brooklyn’s Medgar Evers College, she re-enrolled in 2020 to continue an associate degree program in childhood special education. Originally from Trinidad, she aims to eventually earn her master’s degree.

“I want to finish what I started,” says Williams, who takes night classes after her full-time day job working with special needs children. She also wants to show her daughter, now 22 and attending college herself, the importance of higher education — “doing something to better yourself, enhance your career.”

Williams is among the one-third of college undergraduate students who are at least 25 years old, according to a 2023 White House report. Her story, like millions of others, is a contrast to typical college narratives focused on the youngest adults — ages 18-24 — many of whom go directly from high school to college.

Generally, college students 25 and older are described as “adult learners.” But the term can also encompass younger students who are financially independent from their parents and whose primary identity is shaped by something other than being a student — for example, being a parent, a worker or a veteran, says Becky Klein-Collins, vice president of Research and Impact at the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning and author of the book Never Too Late: The Adult Student’s Guide to College .

“These are students for whom it's not always an option to go to a four-year residential college. Oftentimes, they can't just drop their family or their work or their financial obligations to go to school,” Klein-Collins says. “They have to find ways to make school fit around where they are at as this person, at this time in their life.”

If you can find a program that fits into your life and budget, it can pay off. Adults who graduate from college at 25 or older experience “substantial” earnings premiums, with the sharpest gains going to students who were at least 30 years old at graduation, according to a February 2024 report published by the Brookings Institution, a nonprofit think tank.

“It's never too late to go to college, but it’s not for everybody,” says Moshe Buchinsky, an economics professor at Sciences Po in Paris and a co-author of the report.

From tips to finding the right school to financial aid and scholarships, here’s what you should know before you go to college as an adult learner, according to experts and students who’ve been in your shoes.

Consider your post-college goals

Your first step should be self-reflection. Think about what type of degree or credential you want, what you want to get out of your college experience and how much you’re willing to go into debt for it, says Klein-Collins. “You don't want to get three-quarters down the road and realize, ‘Oh, I'm in the wrong major,’ or, ‘this is not going to lead me to the job that I need’.”

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ database can help you gauge the salary potential of different careers. If you were previously enrolled in college, check with that school’s registrar's office to see how many credits you’ve already earned and how many you still need to finish your degree.

Reflecting on your motivations can help you stay positive if challenges arise during your college journey, says Terah Crews, CEO of ReUp Education, a company that offers personalized support and coaching to adult learners.

Your motivations might not be tied solely to career outcomes. For example, Alexander Foreman, a 28-year-old working towards his bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, has clearly defined both career and life goals after graduation.

Foreman aims to work for a company that promotes renewable energy resources. Beyond that, he says, “I really just want to enjoy life, I don't want to just survive it ... I really want to give myself what I never had growing up, which was a sense of financial freedom, a sense of security in my home, a capacity to do the things that I love and a capacity to spend time with the people that I love.”

Research colleges that support adult learners

Look for a college that values who you are at this stage in your life, says Klein-Collins. These schools may offer flexible class schedules, academic coaching, academic credit for past work or military service, free admissions applications and clear career pathways. Some colleges, like those in the public City University of New York system, even offer on-campus child care to support student-parents.

A local community or technical college may be a great fit. These institutions are “designed specifically for people who are trying to juggle work and learning, and they're often the most affordable option,” Klein-Collins says. “They also offer lots of short-term, professional or occupation-oriented programs that are often very state of the art, and really focused on the hybrid occupations of today's labor market.” Nearly 44% of community college students are at least 25 years old, the 2023 White House report found.

However, if you’ve completed some college, the best path is likely back to your original institution, Crews says. You can usually pick up where you left off, which can save you money and time.

Tap into scholarships, grants, tuition benefits and other 'gift aid'

Though a college degree can increase your earning potential, try to minimize college costs by tapping into financial aid, including “gift aid” — grants and scholarships that you don’t have to repay.

“Make sure that you're finding options that are affordable, that you are not taking on too much loan debt, and if (debt) is your only option, keep asking questions,” Klein-Collins says. “Keep looking for other opportunities until you find something that's going to work for you. If not, it's probably not worth it to go so far into debt that it ends up affecting your ability to support your family down the road.”

You must fill out and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to qualify for most types of financial aid, including federal student loans and the need-based Pell Grant , which can give you up to $7,395 per year.

Working adults should check if they qualify for tuition benefits from their employer , Klein-Collins says. Military education benefits , like the G.I. Bill, can also help cover college expenses for service members, veterans and their dependents and spouses.

Some states, colleges and private organizations offer scholarships intended for adult learners, or for students with specific life experiences like parenting or military service. State grants, in particular, are often underused, Crews says. Here are some examples of state financial aid programs designed for adult students:

Alabama’s (Re)Engage program. Grants for students age 25 and up who’ve been out of school for at least two years.

Colorado’s Finish What You Started program. Financial and academic support for students re-enrolling in college. 

Indiana’s Adult Student Grant . Grants of up to $2,000 for working adults in college.

New Jersey’s Garden State Guarantee . Free or discounted tuition for students in their third or fourth year of a bachelor’s degree program. 

Michigan’s Reconnect program. Free or discounted community college tuition for students age 21 and up.

Ohio’s College Comeback Compact . Up to $5,000 in student debt forgiveness for students who re-enroll at a public Ohio institution. 

Massachusetts’s MassReconnect program . Free community college for students age 25 and up. 

Many adult learners — like Williams — work through college. Among undergraduates ages 16-64, about 40% of full-time students and 74% of part-time students work while taking classes, according to a 2022 report by the National Center for Education Statistics. Earning money while studying can help you manage college costs.

After you maximize grants and scholarships, student loans can cover remaining bills. Prioritize federal student loans , which offer flexible repayment options and borrower protections. Private student loans should be used as a last resort to fill in any funding gaps.

If you previously took out student loans but left school before earning your degree (and the income and career boost that can come with it), finishing that degree is almost always the best financial move, says Crews. “Until you complete the degree, you've got the [debt] burden without the uplift.”

Negotiate financial aid offers

You may also be able to negotiate for more financial aid or to restore aid that you previously lost. Foreman says he lost his original financial aid package in 2018 after Western Michigan dismissed him for poor academic performance. He spent time off working to save money and wrote a financial aid appeal letter to the school with the help of his ReUp coach, which led to his aid being reinstated.

That restored aid package, along with student loans and savings he built working during his time off, made it possible for Foreman to re-enroll as a full-time student. He’s on track to graduate with his bachelor’s degree in the spring of 2025.

Bring any questions about your financial aid package to your prospective college’s financial aid office. And if you previously tapped into financial aid to pay for college, ask if that could impact what you’re eligible for today.

Klein-Collins adds: “You should never fully commit to enrollment before you have had those conversations, and they shouldn't expect you to.”

Lean on your support network

Both Williams and Foreman emphasize the importance of a support network as they navigate college. Whether it’s from family, friends, classmates, neighbors, partners, a religious community or college advisors, a support network can cheer you on and help you manage the logistics of going back to school.

This may be especially true for the nearly 1 in 4 undergraduates who are parents, according to a 2023 data compiled by the Urban Institute, a nonprofit think-tank based in Washington, D.C. Williams says she waited until her daughter was older to go back to school and relied on her husband to help with child care. "You go to school, you come home, you're tired,” Williams says. “I'm not going to lie to anybody. It's very challenging. It's very challenging.”

Organizations focused on adult learners, like ReUp, can also be part of your support network. ReUp pairs students with coaches who help them navigate college — at no cost to the student.

“I understand how overwhelming and how daunting [going back to college] can be,” says Foreman, who credits his ReUp coach for helping him get back to school. “If there's one thing I could recommend, it sounds so simple, but honestly, just believe in yourself, take your time and ask for help.”

Even with support, you’ll be your own biggest advocate in the classroom.

“Don't assume that you're going to be the oldest person in the room and also recognize that you have a lot to contribute,” Klein-Collins says. “You have the benefit of your work and life experiences that you're bringing to that classroom, and that's an asset for the learning of everybody.”

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How to Write a Letter of Recommendation in 6 Steps (+5 Templates)

• Julia Mlcuchova , 
• Updated July 24, 2024 9 min read

You must be really good at your job if someone has asked you to write a recommendation for them. But here you are, googling 'how to write a letter of recommendation,' in search of the ultimate guide or template to help you craft the perfect letter. 

All because your favorite coworker emotionally blackmailed talked you into writing one. 

Of course, you want to do your best. Especially when you realize that your letter of recommendation might be just the thing that tips the scale in their favor. 

But with great power comes great responsibility. And a great amount of stress, am I right? So, why don't you just relax and let us do the explaining.  

In this article, you'll find:  

• What is a letter of recommendation;
• How to write one in 6 steps;
• Letter of recommendation template(s);

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

What is a letter of recommendation?

Why do employers ask for letters of recommendation, how to write a letter of recommendation in 6 steps, letter of recommendation example, letter of recommendation template (copy & paste), flip the script: asking for a letter of recommendation, key takeaways: how to write a letter of recommendation.

A letter of recommendation is exactly what it sounds like — a recommendation letter. Its main purpose is to have a professional vouch for the skills, qualifications, character, and expertise of a job applicant in the form of a formal document . 

People often mistake letters of recommendation with references . And while both serve to endorse a job candidate, they are quite different.

These are the key differences between a reference and a recommendation :

• Reference. A reference is usually included in the resume in a professional references section. It contains a reference's name, job, and contact info.
• Letter of recommendation. On the other hand, a letter of recommendation is a written document that delves deep into what exactly makes the candidate a perfect fit for the job.

In other words, if you're listed as a reference on someone resume, you can expect a call or an email from an employer to speak about the person's credentials.

While if you're asked to write a letter of recommendation, you can prepare a letter beforehand, and dive deeper into the person's skills and qualities.

When can you be asked to provide a letter of recommendation

You might be wondering, "When would I actually need to write a letter of recommendation?" Well, it happens more often than you think. 

Here are some common scenarios:

• Job applications. If a colleague or employee is applying for a new job, they might ask you to write a letter to help them stand out. 
• Academic admissions. Similarly, students often need recommendation letters when applying to colleges, universities, or grad schools. 
• Internships. Letters of recommendation are especially valuable for recent graduates seeking to land their first internship. 
• Volunteering position. Lastly, you may even be asked to write a letter for someone who's trying to get into volunteering. Organizations want to know they're bringing in dedicated and trustworthy people, and your letter can help paint that picture.

At first, you were probably taken aback when you were asked to vouch for your colleague's credentials. But looking at this list, you’re probably more surprised that nobody has asked you to write one before.

Is your resume missing that special spark?

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But why do employers still ask for this kind of assessment of their candidates? After all, isn’t their resume enough? 

Well, not quite. A recommendation letter offers something a resume can’t: a personal touch. It’s a way for employers to get a deeper look into how well they perform in a real work setting. 

Here are reasons why employers might ask for letters of recommendation:

• To verify a candidate's skills and experience. When you list skills and accomplishments on your resume, they sound great on paper. But employers want to hear from someone who’s seen those skills in action. And a letter of recommendation from a credible source provides that extra layer of validation. 
• To learn about their work ethic. While resumes highlight your achievements, they don't really show how you go about your work. So, a recommendation letter can give employers insight into your work ethic, reliability, and dedication. 
• To get an insight into their character. Beyond skills and qualifications, employers also want to know who you are as a person! Are you a team player? Or, do you handle stress well? Are you someone who contributes positively to the work environment? 
• To assess cultural fit. Let’s not forget that every company has its own culture. And if the letter shows you mesh well with the company’s values, you're one step closer to landing the job.

The point is, you need to understand exactly what employers are looking for. How else would you know how to write a letter of recommendation that can actually make a difference?

So, you've been asked to write a letter of recommendation. Congrats! This gesture means that the person asking you for this favor thinks highly of you. 

And when the first wave of excitement finally washes over, you’re a bit unsure of where to start. But no worries!

Here’s a detailed, 6-step guide to help you craft a letter of recommendation that’s clear, impactful, and gets the job done:

So, no “Hello there!” or “How's it going?” You need to make sure your greeting matches the level of formality required in a professional setting. Stick to “Dear Mr. Smith,” instead.

Next, you need to explain who you are and how you know the person you’re recommending. So, mention your position and the nature of your relationship with the candidate — whether you’re their supervisor, colleague, or professor.

Here’s where you dive into the candidate’s qualifications. Focus on their key strengths, skills, and accomplishments. And don't forget to use specific examples and evidence to back up your claims.

But make sure it's relevant and appropriate. There's a fine line between humanizing and humiliating the candidate! Always highlight their strengths! For example, if they went above and beyond to help a team member or tackled a difficult project with ease.

What contributions did they bring to the table? Positive ones, of course. And go into detail. Because their future employer must understand the value this person can bring to their company.

In the previous chapter, we've shown you all the necessary steps that will lead you to an outstanding letter of recommendation.

And now, it's time to put all the pieces together and look at a specific example .

Dear Mr. Crane,

I’ve had the pleasure of working with Robert for the past three years as his supervisor at KinsCorp.

Robert is an exceptional project manager. He led a team that successfully completed a major project ahead of schedule and under budget. His leadership and problem-solving skills were instrumental in this success.

I remember a time when he stayed late to troubleshoot a major issue that came up unexpectedly. His dedication ensured that our client’s deadline was met, and he even took the time to train the team on the solution.

Robert’s innovative approach to project management significantly improved our team’s overall efficiency. His strategies led to a 20% increase in productivity and enhanced client satisfaction, resulting in several new business opportunities for our company.

Based on my experience, I wholeheartedly recommend Bob for the position of Senior Project Manager. His skills, dedication, and professionalism will undoubtedly be a valuable asset to your team.

If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to contact me at [email protected] or +111 123 456 789. 

Best regards, 

Claire Williams, 

Project Manager at KinsCorp

Knowing how to write a letter of recommendation really isn't rocket science. But we also understand that writing formal letters isn't necessarily everybody's cup of tea. Especially if you're not used to handing recommendation letters left and right. 

But don't worry, we're not gonna let you drown! 

We've prepared 5 professional letter of recommendation templates to help you do your very best. Find the one that suits you the most, copypaste, and get right to it!

Employee letter of recommendation templates

Firstly, let's check out 3 templates you can use to write a recommendation letter to your employee (or even your colleague):

#1 Employee letter of recommendation template

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to recommend [Candidate’s Name] for [the position/role] at [Company/Organization/Institution]. I have had the pleasure of working with [Candidate’s Name] for [number] years at [your company], where [he/she/they] [held a specific role/worked on specific projects].

During [his/her/their] time with us, [Candidate’s Name] consistently demonstrated [mention specific skills/qualities]. One instance that stands out is when [he/she/they] [provide a specific example that showcases the candidate’s strengths and achievements].

[Candidate’s Name] is not only skilled but also a great team player who helped foster a positive and productive work atmosphere. For example, [provide an example if relevant, such as how the candidate supported a team member or contributed to a successful project].

I am confident that [Candidate’s Name] will be an excellent addition to your team. [His/Her/Their] [specific qualities or skills] make [him/her/them] a perfect fit for [the position/role]. I wholeheartedly recommend [Candidate’s Name] and am certain that [he/she/they] will bring the same level of dedication and excellence to your organization.

Please feel free to contact me at [your email] or [your phone number] if you need any further information.

Best regards,

[Your Name] [Your Job Title]

#2 Employee letter of recommendation template

I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation for [Candidate’s Name]. I have known [him/her/them] for [number] years in my capacity as [your job title] at [your company/organization]. During this time, it was impossible to overlook [his/her/their] outstanding skills, dedication, and professionalism.

[Candidate’s Name] has consistently demonstrated exceptional [mention specific skills/qualities]. For instance, [he/she/they] [provide a specific example that illustrates these qualities].

Beyond [his/her/their] technical abilities, [Candidate’s Name] is a wonderful team member. [He/She/They] [mention qualities related to teamwork, work ethic, communication, etc.]. A notable example of this is when [he/she/they] [provide an example of teamwork, collaboration, or support].

Moreover, [Candidate’s Name] is highly respected by peers and supervisors alike for [his/her/their] [mention additional qualities such as integrity, reliability, enthusiasm]. [His/Her/Their] ability to [mention any unique contributions or strengths] has greatly benefited our team and the company.

I am confident that [Candidate’s Name] will be a valuable asset to your organization. I sincerely believe that [his/her/their] [specific qualities or skills] make [him/her/them] ideally suited for [the position/role]. I wholeheartedly recommend [Candidate’s Name] without reservation.

Should you need any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at [your email] or [your phone number].

#3 Employee letter of recommendation template

I’m reaching out to share my recommendation for [Candidate’s Name] for [the position/role] at [Recipient’s Company/Organization]. I’ve had the privilege of working closely with [him/her/them] at [Your Company/Organization] for [number] years, and [he/she/they] have consistently impressed me with [his/her/their] skills and dedication.

[Candidate’s Name] has a knack for [mention a specific skill or quality]. For instance, [he/she/they] [describe a notable example, such as leading a key project, driving innovation, or significantly improving a process]. [His/Her/Their] [mention another relevant skill or trait] really shines through in [his/her/their] work.

In addition to [his/her/their] professional skills, [Candidate’s Name] is also a pleasure to work with. [He/She/They] always brings a positive attitude and a collaborative spirit to the team. [He/She/They] has consistently shown [mention personal qualities like reliability, enthusiasm, or excellent communication skills], which has made a notable impact on our work environment.

I am confident that [Candidate’s Name] will be a great fit for your team and will contribute positively to [Recipient’s Company]. If you have any questions or need more details, don’t hesitate to contact me at [Your Email] or [Your Phone Number].

Letter of recommendation template for student

But what if you're in a situation where you've been asked to write a recommendation by one of your students? Well, we thought about that too:

#1 Letter of recommendation template for student

I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for [Student’s Name]. I have had the pleasure of teaching [him/her/them] in [course name/subject] at [University/College Name] for [duration]. During this time, [Student’s Name] has never ceased to impress me with [his/her/their] exceptional academic abilities and dedication.

[Student’s Name] has consistently demonstrated a strong understanding of [subject area], and [his/her/their] work is always of the highest quality. One particular instance that stands out is [provide a specific example, such as a project, research paper, or class presentation that the student excelled in].

In addition to [his/her/their] academic strengths, [Student’s Name] is also a wonderful human being and a joy to have in class. [He/She/They] [mention qualities related to collaboration, communication, and interpersonal skills]. For example, [he/she/they] [provide another example, such as how the student contributed to a group project or helped peers understand complex concepts].

[Student’s Name] is not only academically talented but also highly motivated and passionate about [his/her/their] field of study. [His/Her/Their] ability to [mention any unique contributions or strengths] has greatly benefited our class and the broader academic community.

I am confident that [Student’s Name] will excel in [the program/scholarship at [Organization/Institution Name]. [His/Her/Their] [specific qualities or skills] make [him/her/them] an excellent candidate for this opportunity. I wholeheartedly recommend [Student’s Name] and am certain that [he/she/they] will bring the same level of dedication and excellence to your program.

Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me at [Professor’s Email] or [Professor’s Phone Number].

[Professor’s Name] [Professor’s Title] [Department Name] [University/College Name]

#2 Letter of recommendation template for student

I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for [Student’s Name], who is applying for an internship position at [Recipient’s Company/Organization]. As [his/her/their] professor in [Course Name] at [University/College Name], I have had the opportunity to observe [Student’s Name]’s academic growth and personal development over the past [number] semesters.

[Student’s Name] has demonstrated a strong aptitude for [mention relevant skills or subjects]. [He/She/They] consistently excelled in [specific projects, assignments, or coursework], showcasing [his/her/their] ability to grasp complex concepts and apply them effectively. For example, [describe a specific project or achievement, such as a noteworthy research paper, presentation, or assignment].

In addition to [his/her/their] academic abilities, [Student’s Name] has proven to be a diligent and motivated individual. [He/She/They] actively participates in class discussions, seeks feedback, and shows a genuine enthusiasm for learning. [His/Her/Their] positive attitude and strong work ethic have made a notable impression on both [his/her/their] peers and faculty.

Although [Student’s Name] is seeking [his/her/their] first internship, [he/she/they] already possesses many qualities that will contribute to [his/her/their] success in a professional setting. [He/She/They] is a quick learner, adaptable, and eager to gain hands-on experience in [relevant field or industry]. [His/Her/Their] strong analytical skills and collaborative approach make [him/her/them] an excellent candidate for an internship opportunity.

I am confident that [Student’s Name] will make a valuable contribution to your team and benefit greatly from the experience at [Recipient’s Company/Organization]. Please feel free to contact me at [Professor’s Email] or [Professor’s Phone Number] if you have any questions or need further information.

Thank you for considering [Student’s Name] for this opportunity.

Alternatively, you may find yourself on the other side of the recommendation request — be the one asking for the letter. 

Maybe it’s for a job, an internship , or grad school. Either way, asking for a letter of recommendation can feel a bit awkward. 

But if you follow these tips, you can make the whole process stress-free:

• Pick the right person. Firstly, you need to think about who knows you well. Moreover, this should be someone who's seen you in action. Because the more familiar they are with your work, the better the recommendation will be.
• Respect their time. Crafting a thoughtful recommendation takes time, so don’t wait until the last minute to ask. For example, a month or more in advance is usually a good timeframe.
• Go into detail on your request. Thirdly, be straightforward and precise about what you need. For instance, explain what the letter is for and mention any key skills and achievements you’d like them to highlight. In short, the more guidance you provide, the better the result. 
• Don't be stingy with gratitude. Lastly, be sure to thank your recommender sincerely once they’ve received the letter. A handwritten note or a thoughtful email can go a long way in showing your appreciation.

And remember, most people are happy to help — you just need to ask politely! If you don't know where to start, you can draw inspiration from our templates.

How to ask for a letter of recommendation template

In case you want to persuade your colleague or a supervisor to be your recommender, you can formulate your request like so:

#1 How to ask for a letter of recommendation template: from a colleague

Hi [Colleague’s Name],

I hope you’re doing well. I’m writing to ask if you could do me a favor and write a letter of recommendation for me. I’m applying for [mention the purpose, e.g., a job, an internship, graduate school], and I think your perspective would be really helpful.

Working with you over the past [time period] has been a great experience, and I’ve learned so much. Now, I’m looking to [briefly explain why you are applying], and a recommendation from you would really boost my application.

If you could mention [specific skills, achievements, or experiences you want to be emphasized], that would be awesome. I’ve attached my resume and a draft of my cover letter to give you more info.

The deadline for the recommendation is [mention the deadline], but if you need more time or any other details, just let me know.

Thanks so much for considering this. I really appreciate your help and support.

Best, [Your Name]

#2 How to ask for a letter of recommendation template: from a supervisor

Dear [Supervisor’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to seek your help with a letter of recommendation. I am currently applying for [a new job, an advanced degree program, an internship], and I believe your endorsement would make my application shine. 

Over the past [time period], I have greatly valued your leadership and the opportunities I’ve had to contribute to our team at [Company Name]. Your insight into my work ethic and achievements would provide a fair evaluation that I feel would increase my chances at landing this opportunity. 

Specifically, I would appreciate it if you could highlight [mention specific skills, achievements, or experiences you want to be emphasized]. I have attached my resume and a draft of my cover letter for your reference.

The deadline for the submission of the letter is [mention the deadline]. If you need any additional information or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Thank you very much for considering my request. I am grateful for your support and assistance.

How to ask for a letter of recommendation from professor template

Or, maybe you're a student in dire need of a great recommendation from your professor so you can strengthen your internship/scholarship/doctoral program/first job application.

Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],

I hope my email finds you well. I am reaching out to ask if you could write a letter of recommendation for me. I am applying for [mention the purpose], and I think your insights into my work and character would be incredibly helpful.

I have really enjoyed and learned a lot from your [class/course/lab], and to say that your guidance has been invaluable to me would be an understatement. I believe your perspective on my efforts there would really strengthen my application.

It would be fantastic if you could mention [specific skills, achievements, or qualities you want to emphasize]. I have attached my resume and a draft of my personal statement to give you more context.

The deadline for the recommendation letter is [mention the deadline]. If you need any more information or if there is anything I can do to help, please let me know.

Thank you so much for considering this. Your support means a lot to me.

[Your Name] [Your Major/Program]

In conclusion, a letter of recommendation is an excellent way to strengthen any job or internship application. 

Having a fellow professional or supervisor vouching for a job candidate’s credentials is a powerful endorsement. Because it provides a layer of credibility and personal insight that a resume alone simply can’t offer. 

When you get contacted by your colleague or team member with request for recommendation, following these 6 steps will help you craft a compelling letter:

• Start with a friendly greeting but keep it professional. 
• Introduce yourself and your relationship with the job candidate.
• Illustrate why they're the right person for the job. 
• Don't shy away from sharing a personal story. 
• Broadcast the candidate’s impact on their former workplace. 
• Close your letter with an undisputable endorsement. 

Not the letter you wanted? No worries! If this isn't quite what you were looking for, you might want to check out guides on writing a cover letter or, you know, a resignation letter instead.

Julia has recently joined Kickresume as a career writer. From helping people with their English to get admitted to the uni of their dreams to advising them on how to succeed in the job market. It would seem that her career is on a steadfast trajectory. Julia holds a degree in Anglophone studies from Metropolitan University in Prague, where she also resides. Apart from creative writing and languages, she takes a keen interest in literature and theatre.

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