Are resumes necessary for high school students?

The short answer is “yes.” Some schools always ask for it and expect it (Cornell and Washington University in St. Louis). Every year, colleges tell me that they want to see that kids are engaged. Studies have shown that children who take part in after-school programs can enjoy the benefit of an academic boost. In fact, such studies showed that students who took part in regular after-school programs performed better academically than their peers who did not attend after-school activities. 

Time management is key
Students who take part in extracurricular activities are taught how to effectively manage their time. This is an excellent way to teach time management and help students learn how to keep their priorities in line which helps tremendously in college.

Giving back to the community
Students who give back to their communities learn the importance of lending a helping hand and it also provides them with a way to network with other people in the community, which can be of the utmost help after graduation for college admission and securing employment. 

So, how do they create one? 
First, you can help your child  keep track of everything they have accomplished and been involved in since the beginning of high school. Making a list will suffice until they have to format it more formally.

How is creating a resume different from filling out the Activities Section on the Common Application?  
Basically, the information is the same, but it is formatted differently and can be found in another part of the application. Duplicating information is not ideal; you should provide the exact information the college is requesting. If your child “overdelivers” in providing information, this may have a positive impact on the college representative evaluating the resume and application.

What are they expecting? 
Colleges are expecting honesty and accurate accounting of time spent. Making up activities is not acceptable. The activities may be verified by the student’s school counselor.

Do you have a template?
Yes, we do have a template! See our resources page for more information.

Here are a few other helpful tips to use in the creation of a resume:

1.  Use active verbs to describe roles and positions (i.e. Volunteered, participated, performed, assisted).

2.   List the most important activities first.

3.   Do not use acronyms; spell out the names of the actual organizations.

4.   Bring the resume with you to interviews with admissions counselors and alumni interviewers, and provide it to them at the very beginning of the interview.

Was this helpful? Want to learn more? Let our expert advice help you and your child to manage, execute and WIN the college application process.

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