College Resume Examples and Templates for 2026
20 Best High School Resume Templates and Examples for College Applications for 2026
By Andrew Stoner
, Executive Resume Writer and Career Coach
Andrew Stoner
Last Updated:
August 1, 2026
Tip !
It’s a challenge to include everything you’d like to on a one-page resume. So, once you’ve finished your resume, write a cover letter to go with it. This is your chance to dive deeper into why you’re excited about a job or attending a specific college. You can show some more personality here and bring context to the bullet points of your high school resume.
Volunteer Example
Why this resume is a great example
This resume highlights commitment to volunteerism and youth mentorship with a clear, focused structure. It effectively quantifies accomplishments and showcases leadership in various settings. Read how to list volunteer work experience on a resume.
Student Ambassador Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
This resume uses real metrics like tour numbers and event coordination to show leadership in action. It highlights strengths in communication and responsibility. Want more examples of what to include? Read what to put on a resume.
Lifeguard Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
This resume balances professionalism with clear skill focus. It includes certifications and a strong safety mindset. Learn how to showcase qualifications: How to list certifications on your resume.
Camp Counselor Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
This resume showcases teamwork, leadership, and patience — all key traits for youth-facing jobs. The responsibilities are clearly outlined, with supporting context. Find more ideas on how to build a resume for teenagers.
Retail Associate Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
This example balances part-time experience with student responsibilities, showing real-world reliability. Learn how to emphasize part-time roles: work experience on a resume.
Student Tutor Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
This resume focuses on academic leadership and clear tutoring roles. It shows initiative and a desire to help others. Get more strategies for early career resumes: How to write your first job resume.
Dance Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
This resume shows commitment to the arts and real leadership in performance and teaching. Read more about showcasing creative experience: Extracurricular activities for a resume.
Tennis Player Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
The resume reflects athletic commitment and leadership. It shows a balance between school and sports. Discover how to include athletic roles on your resume in personal statement examples.
Theatre Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
This resume highlights both performance and technical theatre experience. It’s a strong blend of talent and teamwork. Explore how to frame artistic experience here: what is a good headline for a resume?
Internship-Ready Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
This resume clearly communicates readiness for real-world work. It blends school roles with a hands-on internship. Discover more about landing your first opportunity: how to make a resume with no experience.
Music Student Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
This resume shows discipline, technical skill, and leadership in a creative field. It’s focused and achievement-driven. See more on presenting musical experience: how to list your education on a resume.
Resume Workshop Participant Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
This resume spotlights initiative and personal development outside of traditional jobs. See how to use workshops to build experience in how to build a resume for free.
Library Assistant Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
This resume shows real-world experience aligned with career goals. It builds a foundation for library science or education careers. Explore how to list relevant roles effectively in resume job description.
Babysitter Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
This resume reflects reliability and safety — core traits in child care. See how to shape early work experience in resume keywords.
Fast Food Worker Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
It shows fast-paced customer experience and reliability — both valued in service roles. Find more ways to present food industry roles in a server job description for a resume.
Summer Intern Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
This student demonstrates career focus early on with real exposure to IT. Learn how to present your tech experience well: computer skills for a resume.
High School Student for College Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
Strong academic depth and extracurricular leadership stand out. Here’s how a resume should look for a college student.
Personal Assistant Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
Shows trustworthiness and maturity in a solo-support role. See tips on structuring small jobs with resume formats.
Warehouse Assistant Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
It captures hard skills and entry-level logistics experience with clear impact. Read about including hands-on roles in hard skills for a resume.
Dog Walker Resume Example
Why this resume is a great example
It shows commitment, reliability, and care — key for personal services. Find out how to tailor gig work on a resume with job titles for a resume.
Volunteer Text-Only Resume Example
Taylor Smith
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code | LinkedIn
Motivated high school student with a strong volunteer background and passion for community service. Natural leader who mentors young athletes and works with local library staff to engage teens. Excels in project coordination, team leadership, and educational outreach.
Key Skills
Adaptability
Fundraising
Inventory management
Mentorship
Team collaboration
Volunteer Experience
Youth Sports League Volunteer, YMCA, San Antonio, TX
August 2023 – to present
- Coach weekly sports events and practice sessions for youth teams throughout the year
- Lead quarterly soccer camps for 10 to 12-year-olds to build skills and sportsmanship
- Helped raise over $2,000 at a charity event to fund new equipment
Operations Volunteer, San Antonio Food Bank, San Antonio, TX
January 2023 – July 2023
- Helped distribute around $5,000 worth of food to families
- Logged over 75 hours organizing food and preparing packages
- Supported seasonal food drives, collecting community donations
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2026
Roosevelt High School, San Antonio, TX
- GPA: 3.7
- Principal’s List 2023
Community Involvement
Teen Advisory Board Member, Central Library
September 2022 – to present
- Increased teen program attendance by 30% with redesigned outreach materials
- Developed summer reading program that engaged over 300 youth
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Student ambassador Text-Only Resume Example
Alex Brown
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
Driven high school student and student ambassador known for welcoming new students and organizing school-wide events. Confident public speaker who supports outreach efforts, builds student engagement, and strengthens campus culture.
Key Skills
Event planning
Leadership
Peer mentoring
Public speaking
School tours
Professional Experience
Student Ambassador, Eastview High School, Austin, TX
September 2023 – to present
- Greet new students and give 30+ school tours each semester
- Plan welcome week events with staff and student leaders
- Facilitate Q&A panels for incoming freshmen and parents
Camp Assistant, Camp Rio, Austin, TX
June 2023 – August 2023
- Supervised outdoor activities for 50+ campers aged 7 to 10
- Ensured safety protocols were followed across all areas
- Led group games and conflict resolution when needed
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2025
Eastview High School, Austin, TX
- GPA: 3.8
- National Honor Society Member
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Lifeguard Text-Only Resume Examples
Jordan Miller
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
Energetic lifeguard and student athlete with strong attention to safety and emergency response. Certified in CPR and First Aid. Maintains pool safety while delivering exceptional customer service to swimmers of all ages.
Key Skills
CPR and First Aid
Emergency response
Pool maintenance
Rule enforcement
Team coordination
Professional Experience
Lifeguard, Crestview Community Pool, Orlando, FL
May 2024 – to present
- Monitor swimmer activity and prevent unsafe behavior
- Respond to minor incidents and administer First Aid
- Maintain pool cleanliness and perform equipment checks
Swim Instructor Assistant, Orlando Youth Swim, Orlando, FL
September 2023 – April 2024
- Helped teach swim basics to children aged 5–10
- Reinforced safety rules during lessons
- Organized flotation devices and learning tools
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2025
Cypress High School, Orlando, FL
Certifications
CPR & First Aid Certified | American Red Cross | April 2024
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Camp counselor Text-Only Resume Example
Morgan Johnson
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
Hardworking high school student with two summers of experience as a camp counselor. Enthusiastic about youth development and outdoor education. Creates a safe, energetic space for children to grow socially and emotionally.
Key Skills
Activity planning
Child supervision
Conflict resolution
Group leadership
Time management
Professional Experience
Camp Counselor, Hillside Youth Camp, Bend, OR
June 2023 – August 2024
- Supervised 12 to 15 campers daily in cabins and group activities
- Designed and led games, crafts, and nature hikes
- Resolved minor conflicts and supported emotional well-being
Volunteer Tutor, Bend Library Learning Lab, Bend, OR
October 2023 – to present
- Assist with homework help for students in grades 2–5
- Offer reading support and test preparation tips
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2025
Skyline High School, Bend, OR
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Retail associate Text-Only Resume Example
Casey Davis
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
Reliable retail associate and high school student with a reputation for excellent service and teamwork. Demonstrates responsibility in stocking, cashiering, and customer assistance. Eager to grow retail experience while continuing education.
Key Skills
Cash handling
Customer assistance
Inventory restocking
POS systems
Team support
Professional Experience
Sales Associate, Trendy Finds, Denver, CO
March 2024 – to present
- Operate cash register and manage daily transactions
- Restock merchandise and organize displays
- Assist customers with product questions and returns
Event Crew Volunteer, Mile High Flea Market, Denver, CO
May 2023 – October 2023
- Set up booths and signage for weekend events
- Provided visitor assistance and handed out maps
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2026
Northview High School, Denver, CO
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Student tutor Text-Only Resume Example
Jamie Wilson
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
Academic tutor and honor student with a passion for helping others succeed. Offers strong subject matter knowledge in math and science. Experienced in one-on-one and group tutoring environments.
Key Skills
Algebra support
Assignment review
Communication
Patience
Time management
Professional Experience
Peer Tutor, Kennedy High School, Minneapolis, MN
September 2023 – to present
- Provide weekly math tutoring to students in grades 9–11
- Help prepare study guides and review worksheets
- Encourage struggling students with goal-setting
Summer STEM Program Assistant, Young Innovators, Minneapolis, MN
June 2023 – August 2023
- Supported three instructors during hands-on science labs
- Maintained materials and safety standards
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2025
Kennedy High School, Minneapolis, MN
- GPA: 4.0
- AP Scholar Award
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Dance Text-Only Resume Example
Cameron Moore
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
Dedicated dancer and high school student with seven years of training in ballet, jazz, and modern styles. Known for strong stage presence and commitment to rehearsal schedules.
Key Skills
Ballet technique
Choreography collaboration
Creative expression
Performance preparation
Stage presence
Professional Experience
Company Dancer, Rising Motion Dance School, Tampa, FL
January 2019 – to present
- Perform in seasonal showcases and competitions
- Rehearse weekly and attend extra rehearsals before performances
- Collaborate with choreographers and instructors on routines
Assistant Instructor, Junior Dance Camp, Tampa, FL
June 2023 – August 2023
- Co-taught dance basics to students ages 6–8
- Maintained classroom focus and fun during learning activities
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2026
Lincoln High School, Tampa, FL
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Tennis player Text-Only Resume Example
Drew Thompson
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
Competitive tennis player and team captain with a strong academic record. Balances athletics with student leadership. Interested in sports management and health sciences.
Key Skills
Athletic discipline
Coaching
Goal setting
Team strategy
Time management
Professional Experience
Varsity Tennis Captain, Grant High School, Richmond, VA
August 2023 – to present
- Lead drills and warmups before matches
- Work with coach to develop match strategies
- Mentor underclassmen during off-season training
Volunteer Ball Crew, Virginia Open Tennis Tournament, Richmond, VA
June 2023
- Assisted with tournament logistics and court support
- Maintained match pace and professionalism
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2025
Grant High School, Richmond, VA
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Theatre Text-Only Resume Example
Riley Anderson
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
High school theatre student with a strong passion for performing arts. Skilled in stage acting, script memorization, and character development. Works well in fast-paced rehearsal environments.
Key Skills
Cold reading
Line memorization
Public performance
Script analysis
Team collaboration
Professional Experience
Lead Actor, Brookside High School Drama Club, Albany, NY
September 2023 – to present
- Starred in two full-length productions and three one-acts
- Participated in daily rehearsals for 6 weeks before each show
- Engaged in community theatre workshops
Stage Crew Volunteer, Albany Youth Theatre, Albany, NY
April 2023 – July 2023
- Managed props and costumes backstage
- Assisted with set changes during shows
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2026
Brookside High School, Albany, NY
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Internship-ready Text-Only Resume Example
Pat Thomas
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
High-achieving student seeking an internship in marketing or business. Known for research and writing skills, with experience organizing student fundraisers.
Key Skills
Data entry
Event coordination
Fundraising
Social media basics
Time management
Professional Experience
Student Council Treasurer, Westlake High School, Phoenix, AZ
August 2023 – to present
- Tracked expenses and managed fundraiser revenue
- Created flyers and posted updates online
- Helped raise over $1,200 for student activities
Administrative Intern (Part-Time), Sunrise Dental Office, Phoenix, AZ
June 2024 – August 2024
- Filed patient forms and scanned documents
- Greeted visitors and answered phones during lunch hours
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2025
Westlake High School, Phoenix, AZ
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Music student Text-Only Resume Example
Taylor Smith
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
Dedicated music student and orchestra member with 6 years of violin training. Participates in competitions and supports school ensemble events. Balances music education with academic excellence.
Key Skills
Concert performance
Music theory
Practice discipline
Sight reading
Team coordination
Professional Experience
First Violinist, Hillside High School Orchestra, Portland, ME
August 2022 – to present
- Perform in fall and spring concerts and local competitions
- Lead sectional rehearsals for violinists
- Assist new students with practice routines
Music Camp Assistant, Maine Youth Music, Portland, ME
July 2023 – August 2023
- Guided students during music theory workshops
- Coordinated with instructors for group rehearsals
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2026
Hillside High School, Portland, ME
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Resume workshop participant Text-Only Resume Example
Alex Brown
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
High school student and career workshop participant with experience building resumes, practicing interviews, and learning soft skills. Strong work ethic and interest in health care or administration roles.
Key Skills
Career readiness
Job applications
Organizational skills
Resume writing
Verbal communication
Professional Experience
Workshop Participant, Career Jumpstart, Wichita, KS
March 2024 – May 2024
- Completed resume and cover letter assignments
- Practiced interview techniques with career mentors
- Created LinkedIn profile and digital resume
Library Page, Wichita Public Library, Wichita, KS
June 2023 – December 2023
- Shelved books and helped patrons locate materials
- Kept study rooms organized and ready for use
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2025
Eastside High School, Wichita, KS
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Library assistant Text-Only Resume Example
Jordan Miller
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
Library assistant and student leader passionate about books, digital archiving, and information organization. Experienced in shelving, cataloging, and assisting with community literacy events.
Key Skills
Alphabetizing
Digital records
Event support
Library science basics
Public service
Professional Experience
Library Assistant, Valley High School Library, Santa Fe, NM
September 2023 – to present
- Organize returned books and check for damage
- Support staff during book fairs and school events
- Assist with catalog updates in the library system
Reading Mentor, Literacy Connects, Santa Fe, NM
February 2023 – August 2023
- Read aloud with students ages 6–9
- Created simple reading games and exercises
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2025
Valley High School, Santa Fe, NM
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Babysitter Text-Only Resume Example
Morgan Johnson
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
Responsible babysitter and student known for dependability and child care knowledge. Cares for children during evenings and weekends with a focus on engagement, safety, and routine.
Key Skills
Child supervision
Meal prep
Play planning
Routine management
Safety awareness
Professional Experience
Babysitter, Self-employed, Memphis, TN
June 2023 – to present
- Provide evening and weekend care for two families
- Maintain routines for bedtime and meals
- Create age-appropriate activities to limit screen time
Nursery Volunteer, Grace Church, Memphis, TN
August 2022 – May 2023
- Cared for toddlers during weekend services
- Cleaned and sanitized toys and play areas
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2025
Cordova High School, Memphis, TN
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Fast food worker Text-Only Resume Example
Casey Davis
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
Friendly fast food crew member with strong multitasking skills and experience handling orders in a fast-paced environment. Builds customer loyalty with consistent service.
Key Skills
Cash register operation
Cleaning and restocking
Customer orders
Drive-thru service
Team support
Professional Experience
Crew Member, Burger Stop, Des Moines, IA
July 2023 – to present
- Serve 100+ customers during lunch and dinner rushes
- Work drive-thru and counter positions
- Follow safety and cleanliness standards
Volunteer Server, Church Picnic Events, Des Moines, IA
June 2022 – September 2022
- Served food and beverages during large community events
- Assisted with setup and breakdown
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2025
Jefferson High School, Des Moines, IA
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Summer intern Text-Only Resume Example
Jamie Wilson
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
Motivated student with interest in business and technology. Completed a summer internship with a local IT firm, learning about customer support and project documentation.
Key Skills
Client support
Data entry
Office etiquette
Project tracking
Time management
Professional Experience
Summer Intern, Blue Peak IT Solutions, Boise, ID
June 2024 – August 2024
- Supported client service desk with password resets
- Logged customer issues in help desk system
- Prepared project summaries for internal use
AV Tech Assistant, Boise High School, Boise, ID
September 2023 – May 2024
- Helped set up AV systems for assemblies and theater productions
- Maintained sound and projector equipment
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2025
Boise High School, Boise, ID
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High school student for college Text-Only Resume Example
Cameron Moore
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
College-bound student with strong academic record and involvement in honor societies, debate, and science fair competitions. Brings drive, curiosity, and leadership experience.
Key Skills
Academic writing
Debate preparation
Lab experiments
Research
Time management
Professional Experience
Science Club President, Harrison High School, Lexington, KY
August 2023 – to present
- Led a 20-member club through three competition cycles
- Organized two community science nights
Debate Team Member, Harrison High School, Lexington, KY
September 2022 – May 2023
- Competed at the state level and placed top 10 in regionals
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2025
Harrison High School, Lexington, KY
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Personal assistant Text-Only Resume Example
Drew Thompson
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
Personal assistant for a local entrepreneur, helping with scheduling, errands, and office setup. Professional, discreet, and highly organized.
Key Skills
Appointment scheduling
Errands
Microsoft Office
Organization
Task tracking
Professional Experience
Personal Assistant, Self-employed Contractor, Milwaukee, WI
January 2024 – to present
- Scheduled meetings and sent calendar invites
- Ran errands, including deliveries, returns, and mail drop-offs
- Organized files and scanned receipts
Office Volunteer, Neighborhood Watch Office, Milwaukee, WI
September 2023 – December 2023
- Updated phone call logs and organized binders
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2026
Southview High School, Milwaukee, WI
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Warehouse assistant Text-Only Resume Example
Riley Anderson
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
Warehouse assistant with experience in packing, stocking, and inventory support. Physical stamina and attention to detail in fast-moving environments.
Key Skills
Inventory counting
Order picking
Packaging
Physical stamina
Safety checks
Professional Experience
Warehouse Assistant, SupplyCore, Inc., Cincinnati, OH
June 2024 – to present
- Assist with packaging 100+ boxes per day
- Scan barcodes and help manage shipment logs
- Keep aisles and shelves organized
Donation Center Helper, Thrift Warehouse, Cincinnati, OH
October 2023 – April 2024
- Sorted incoming items by category
- Cleaned and labeled items before shelf placement
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2025
Cincinnati South High School, Cincinnati, OH
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Dog walker Text-Only Resume Example
Pat Thomas
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST zip code
Animal lover and student providing trusted neighborhood dog walking services. Familiar with pet safety, basic training techniques, and daily routines.
Key Skills
Animal safety
Daily walking
Pet routines
Timekeeping
Trustworthiness
Professional Experience
Dog Walker, Self-employed, Raleigh, NC
March 2023 – to present
- Walk four to six dogs daily on individual and group schedules
- Provide water, cleanup, and occasional feeding
- Maintain log of client notes and pet needs
Pet Care Volunteer, Raleigh Animal Shelter, Raleigh, NC
June 2022 – December 2022
- Helped bathe and walk adoptable dogs
- Refilled food and cleaned kennel areas
Education
High School Diploma, Expected: June 2025
Riverdale High School, Raleigh, NC
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How To Write a High School Resume for College Applications Example
Applying for college is a big task, especially if you’re interested in multiple schools. At a minimum, include the following sections in your college application resume:
- Contact information
- Profile
- Key skills
- Professional experience
- Education and certifications
01 Share your contact information
Even if your resume is attached to your application, include your name and contact information at the top of the document. Your phone number, email, and address should be clearly stated so admission officers know whose resume they’re reading.
Example
Your Name
(123) 456-7890
[email protected]
City, State Abbreviation Zip Code
LinkedIn | Portfolio
02 Write a dynamic profile summarizing your qualifications
Think of your profile like a movie trailer. It shares just enough information to pique the reader’s interest without giving everything away. In two to three sentences, list your top academic and extracurricular achievements that show why you would be an excellent addition to their school.
Highlight facts demonstrating your leadership skills or passion for your field of study. Use action verbs to make your summary dynamic and descriptive. This will help admission boards quickly understand your strengths and how you might contribute to their campus community.
Professional Profile Example
Driven high school student with experience in customer-facing roles. Excels in high-volume, fast-paced environments. President of the drama club for the last two years with a keen interest in the arts and fundraising. Track record of teamwork and quality customer service.
Volunteer Profile Example
Motivated high school student with a strong volunteer background and passion for community service. Natural leader who mentors young athletes and works with local library staff to engage teens. Excels in project coordination, team leadership, and educational outreach.
For further inspiration on crafting an engaging introduction, explore our How to Write a Convincing Resume Profile guide. This resource can help you refine your resume template to clearly showcase your achievements as a high school student applying to college.
03 Add a results-driven professional experience section
Whether you’ve had a job or not, you have valuable experiences to call on. Showcase your responsibilities, but also include achievements. Were you recognized by management? Did you improve a process at work? Mention times when you excelled on the job, learned something new, or had a positive impact.
If you haven’t worked yet, list academic, volunteer, athletic, internship, or study abroad experiences instead. Describe any new skills gained or results you achieved, using numbers when you can. Show you’re on a path to success, ready to take on the challenges of college life.
Senior-Level Professional Experience Example
Server, Regal Macarthur Center, Norfolk, VA
April 2023 – present
- Serve food and beverages to an average of 100 guests per shift in the theater’s VIP section
- Process payments and manage reservations through the theater’s point-of-sale (POS) system
- Achieved a department-wide 98% customer satisfaction rate based on service, delivery times, and facility cleanliness
- Ensure service stations, dining tables, and theater seating are clean and well-stocked
Entry-Level Professional Experience Example
Youth Sports League Volunteer, YMCA, San Antonio, TX
August 2023 – present
- Coach weekly sports events and practice sessions for youth sports teams throughout the year
- Lead quarterly soccer camps for 10 to 12-year-olds covering the basics to build skills and sportsmanship
- Work with fellow volunteers to ensure all activities start on schedule
- Helped raise over $2,000 at a charity event to fund new sports equipment and uniforms
Resume writer’s tip: Quantify your experience
When you can, use numbers to describe your academic achievements and personal accomplishments. Instead of simply saying you were “top of the class,” give evidence of this through your test scores, GPA, or an award title. Or, if you were the captain of a sports team, mention how many people were on the team. For example:
Do
- “Supervised a total of 15 children ages 2 to 10 each month for three years, ensuring their safety and well-being.”
Don’t
- “Took care of several children of different ages.”
Resume writer’s tip: Tailor your resume for each application
Even if you are applying to only one of the nearly 6,000 U.S. postsecondary schools, tailor your college application resume accordingly. This shows your genuine interest in that specific school. Demonstrate you’ve done your homework and discovered what’s most important to that institution.
Highlight achievements, experiences, skills, and interests that align with the school you’re applying for. Admissions officers are more likely to notice and appreciate your resume if they can see you connected with their missions, values, and specialties.
What if you don’t have experience?
Your first few resumes are often the hardest to create, especially if you don’t have any work experience. Instead, focus on things like skills, volunteer work, babysitting, lawn mowing, or helping out a family business. These experiences still count and show you’ve taken on responsibility or gone out of your way to get involved with a community project.
Depending on your extracurricular activities and interests, you can add unique information that would make you stand out from other students. If it could be relevant to your college career, include info on things like personal projects, hobbies, passions, social media pages, contest wins, and more.
If you have work or volunteer experience — such as a part-time job — check out our How To Write Your First Job Resume guide. It offers tips to integrate these experiences into your college resume, making your application even stronger.
04 Add high school education and certifications
You’re sending in your transcripts with your application, so the school already has access to the coursework you’ve completed. Go a step beyond with your college resume by describing relevant academic achievements. Provide extra information on details such as high grades and GPAs, awards, standardized test scores, leadership roles, and your expected graduation date — anything that emphasizes your high school performance.
Education
Template:
[Degree Name]
[School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] | [Graduation Year]
- [GPA Score]
- [Additional Information]
Example:
High School Diploma
Cliff Park High School, Springfield, OH | Expected: June 2027
- GPA: 3.5
- AP English, AP History
Certifications
Template:
[Certification Name], [Awarding Organization], [Completion Year]
Examples:
First Aid and CPR/AED Certification, American Aquatics and Safety Training, 2021
05 Outline your most useful skills and proficiencies
Create a skills list that shows the college what you’re capable of. Include both technical and interpersonal abilities to display your learning style and how you collaborate with others. If you’re fluent in multiple languages, mention that as well. Do you have experience leading a team? List your leadership skills. Check out the examples below:
| Key Skills and Proficiencies |
|---|
| Empathetic communication |
| Laboratory techniques |
| Language proficiency |
| Leadership |
| Musical ability |
| Public speaking |
| Resilience |
| Time management |
| Video editing |
| Web development |
2026 skills update:
Admissions teams increasingly scan for foundational digital skills and collaborative capabilities. Add skills such as:
- Basic AI literacy (using AI tools responsibly for school projects)
- Collaboration skills (Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Notion)
- Intro coding skills (HTML, Python basics)
- Research and organization tools
- Time management and project coordination
Resume writer’s tip: Use specific action verbs
Action verbs can help you communicate clearly and concisely. Instead of writing in complete sentences, start bullet points with an action verb. This language engages readers and allows them to better envision what you’ve accomplished. Here are action verbs you can use to liven up your college application resume:
| Action Verbs |
|---|
| Achieved |
| Collaborated |
| Contributed |
| Implemented |
| Initiated |
| Innovated |
| Led |
| Managed |
| Organized |
| Volunteered |
2026 resume trends to keep in mind
Resume trends in 2026 emphasize measurable accomplishments, current tools, and clean formatting that works well with applicant tracking systems. Employers increasingly scan for skills tied to AI-assisted workflows, modern collaboration platforms, and updated credentials. Refreshing your resume with recent achievements, new certifications, and clearly defined skills helps ensure your application stays competitive. To compare layouts and find the right structure for your background, review our updated resume formats.
How To Pick the Best High School Resume Template
The best template for a college application is well-organized, simple, and easy to read. It should clearly feature your most relevant academic accomplishments, work experience, and other extracurricular activities. Look for a college resume template with a clean design, free of graphics and overly vibrant colors. These decorative accents may look nice, but they can distract the reader.
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Frequently Asked Questions: High School Resume Examples and Advice
How do you align your resume for a college application?
If you're ready to join the 62% of high school graduates enrolling in colleges or universities, create a well-written resume that aligns with school requirements and expectations. This strategy is helpful no matter what you may be applying for - school, work, internships, or otherwise. You'll stand out more than other applicants who may be using generic templates.
Research the college's priorities, identifying keywords and phrases about skills or experiences they value. Then, select moments from your academic and professional history that match these priorities. For example, if the school emphasizes community involvement, be sure that your volunteer experiences are somewhere in your resume.
What is the best high school resume format?
Choosing the right format for your resume can make all the difference. While the chronological style may be the most popular, a combination format is often a better alternative for high school students. Instead of focusing on your professional history, emphasize your relevant skills and education first. Then list any volunteer, work, extracurricular, or leadership experience.
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Executive Resume Writer and Career Coach
Andrew Stoner is an executive career coach and resume writer with 17 years of experience as a hiring manager and operations leader at two Fortune 500 Financial Services companies, and as the career services director at two major university business schools.
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