How to Create a Strong College Resume

A well-crafted college resume can set you apart from other applicants by showcasing your accomplishments, skills, and experiences. It provides admissions officers with a snapshot of your academic journey, extracurricular activities, and personal achievements. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a strong college resume that highlights your strengths and makes a lasting impression.

1. Start with a Clear and Professional Format

Why It Matters: A clean and organized resume format makes it easy for admissions officers to quickly scan and find the most important information.

How to Do It:

• Use a Standard Font: Choose a professional font like Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri. Keep the font size between 10-12 points.
• Consistent Layout: Ensure that your headings, bullet points, and spacing are consistent throughout the document.
• One Page: Aim to keep your resume to one page. If you have extensive experience, ensure the most relevant information is highlighted on the first page.

2. Include a Strong Heading

Why It Matters: The heading is the first section of your resume and should include your personal information clearly and concisely.

What to Include:

• Full Name: Make your name stand out by using a slightly larger font size.
• Contact Information: Include your phone number, professional email address, and home address (optional).
• LinkedIn Profile or Personal Website: If you have a LinkedIn profile or a personal website that showcases your work, include the URL.

3. Highlight Your Academic Achievements

Why It Matters: Your academic achievements are a key component of your college resume and should be prominently displayed.

How to Do It:

• GPA: Include your cumulative GPA if it’s strong and above the average for your target schools.
• Relevant Coursework: List advanced or relevant courses that align with your intended major or showcase your academic strengths.
• Academic Honors and Awards: Mention any honors, awards, or recognitions you’ve received, such as Honor Roll, Dean’s List, or subject-specific awards.

4. Emphasize Extracurricular Activities

Why It Matters: Extracurricular activities demonstrate your interests, leadership skills, and commitment to your community.

How to Do It:

• Leadership Roles: Highlight any leadership positions you’ve held, such as team captain, club president, or event organizer.
• Community Service: Include volunteer work and community service projects that reflect your values and dedication to helping others.
• Clubs and Organizations: List any school clubs, sports teams, or organizations you’ve been involved in, especially those that align with your academic or career goals.

5. Showcase Work Experience and Internships

Why It Matters: Work experience and internships demonstrate your ability to manage responsibilities, work in a team, and apply your skills in real-world settings.

How to Do It:

• Job Title and Company: Clearly state your job title, the company name, and the dates of employment.
• Key Responsibilities: Use bullet points to describe your main duties and achievements in each role. Focus on quantifiable results, such as “Increased sales by 20%” or “Managed a team of 5 employees.”
• Internship Details: If you’ve completed internships, include the specific projects you worked on and the skills you developed.

6. Include a Skills Section

Why It Matters: A skills section allows you to highlight your abilities and strengths, making it easy for admissions officers to see what you can bring to their school.

What to Include:

• Technical Skills: List any relevant technical skills, such as proficiency in Microsoft Office, programming languages, or graphic design software.
• Soft Skills: Include important soft skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management.
• Language Proficiency: If you’re fluent in another language, be sure to include it.

7. Add Relevant Certifications and Awards

Why It Matters: Certifications and awards can give you a competitive edge by demonstrating your expertise and dedication in specific areas.

What to Include:

• Certifications: Include certifications that are relevant to your intended major or career path, such as CPR certification, Adobe Certified Associate, or any industry-specific credentials.
• Awards: Mention any awards you’ve received for academic, athletic, or artistic achievements.

8. Tailor Your Resume for Each Application

Why It Matters: Customizing your resume for each college or scholarship application can make a significant difference in how it’s received.

How to Do It:

• Research the College: Understand what the college values and tailor your resume to highlight experiences and skills that align with their programs.
• Adjust Keywords: Use specific keywords and phrases that match the college’s mission, programs, or the major you’re applying for.
• Focus on Relevant Experience: If you’re applying to a college with a strong engineering program, emphasize your STEM-related activities and coursework.

9. Proofread and Edit Thoroughly

Why It Matters: A resume with typos or grammatical errors can leave a negative impression. Proofreading ensures that your resume is polished and professional.

How to Do It:

• Read Aloud: Reading your resume aloud can help you catch errors or awkward phrasing.
• Use Grammar Tools: Utilize tools like Grammarly or Hemingway to check for mistakes and improve readability.
• Get Feedback: Ask a teacher, counselor, or trusted mentor to review your resume and provide feedback.

Final Thoughts on Creating a Strong College Resume

Creating a strong college resume is an essential step in the college application process. By following these tips and strategies, SHS students can craft a resume that highlights their strengths, accomplishments, and potential, giving them a competitive edge in the admissions process.

Further Resources:

• Check out College Board’s Resume Writing Tips for additional guidance.
• Explore NACAC’s Guide to College Resumes for more detailed examples and advice.

By putting effort into crafting a well-organized, informative, and tailored resume, SHS students can make a strong impression on college admissions officers and increase their chances of being accepted to their dream schools.