Blueprint for Success Life Skills: Resume Writing

A resume summarizes your skills, experiences, and accomplishments, and it is not just for adults applying for jobs. High school students need a resume to apply to college, scholarships, employment, and internships. Your resume is an important marketing tool.

Why Have a Resume?
1. It sets students apart from others. High school students likely won’t need a resume for service-oriented jobs, but if they’re looking for an internship or a more professional job, a resume will impress a potential employer and will make them stand out against other candidates.

2. It shows that they’re responsible. Employers want to know that an employee is going to be dependable. On a high school resume, this can be demonstrated by prior work experience as well as activities and volunteering, which indicate their commitment to responsibilities.

3. It highlights their ambition. One important part of a high school resume is to show the outside activities the student takes part in. Participating in extracurricular activities and volunteering shows employers that a high school student has passion and dedication, which are always desired in an employee. In addition, if a student is on the honor roll it shows that he or she is hard-working.

4. It’s helpful for letters of recommendation. When it’s time for students to ask teachers, counselors, and previous employers for a reference or letter of recommendation, a resume will help remind them of what you’ve done and why you’re qualified of a specific position.