how to write a resume for college graduates

Build my resume

• Build a better resume in minutes
• Resume examples
• 2,000+ examples that work in 2024
• Resume templates
• Free templates for all levels
• Cover letters
• Cover letter generator
• It's like magic, we promise
• Cover letter examples
• Free downloads in Word & Docs

5 Recent College Graduate Resume Examples for 2024

• Recent College Grad
• Recent College Grad 2
• Recent College Grad 3
• Recent College Grad 4
• Recent College Grad 5
• Recent College Grad Resume Writing 101

As a recent college graduate, the world is your oyster. With your college days in the rearview mirror, it’s time to put your skills to the test and jumpstart your career.

If the prospect of job hunting with limited work experience seems daunting, you’re not alone. College grads around the globe face the same dilemma— what to put on your resume and how to write a cover letter if you’re still new to the professional world?

Don’t fret—you’ve got boundless ambition, and we’ve got the secret resume tips plus a resume builder to turn that into your dream role! Check out our five recent college graduate resume templates and expert guidance.

Recent College Graduate Resume

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• The more the merrier! Don’t shy away from adding as many courses as you’ve completed in your recent college graduate resume. However, keep in mind that it’s best to add ones that directly align with the role you’re applying to.

Recent College Graduate 2 Resume

Recent College Graduate 3 Resume

Recent College Graduate 4 Resume

Recent College Graduate 5 Resume

Related resume examples

• Grad School
• Research Assistant
• College Student
• Entry-Level
• College Graduate

What Matters Most: Your Skills & Early Experience

Your skills are your greatest assets as you begin to navigate your career path, so it’s essential to choose the best ones to put in the spotlight. Make sure they’re highly relevant to your niche. 

If you’ve majored in communication, discuss your SEO prowess and SalesForce expertise. A computer science grad may highlight something else, like Tableau or Python. What do these drastically different skills have in common? They’re all very niche-specific. 

Focus on the tools you know how to use, such as Adobe Creative Suite, and skills relevant to the job you’re applying for, such as market analysis. 

Here’s what a communication major might put on their resume— adjust it to match your industry .

9 best recent college graduate skills

• CRM Management
• SEO Optimization
• Microsoft Office
• Market Analysis
• Email Campaigns
• Data Visualization

Sample recent college graduate work experience bullet points

You’ve worked your way through college, or you’re jumping head-first into your first job. Either way, measurable impact is your best friend. This is how you show recruiters your accomplishments in a tangible, eye-catching way.

Even if your experience doesn’t seem relevant to the role you want, you can still show recruiters skills and success that transcend any job. Besides paid jobs, discuss college projects, internships, volunteering, or even hobbies and interests , and focus on your accomplishments.

Here’s how to use measurable impact to your advantage:

• Assisted over 100 customers a day by providing recommendations and offering additional products, surpassing daily sales goals by 21% on average
• Started and managed social media profiles for a college study organization, increasing follower count to over 700 in 6 months
• Led a team of 6 students in a marketing project, developing a new marketing strategy for a small business that increased revenue by 9%
• Coordinated fundraising events for a local non-profit, raising over $3,000 within a month

Top 5 Tips for Your Recent College Graduate Resume

• If you need some more inspiration, our resume samples can give you a boost.
• You may have a clear career path, but it’s okay if you don’t. A college degree opens many doors—you don’t have to stick to applying to jobs that fit your major. Roles that often hire graduates regardless of their field of study include customer success managers, recruiters, and account executives.
• Don’t fear blank spaces—a cluttered resume often ends in the bin. Focus on technical skills, such as your knowledge of programming languages like Python, education, and key accomplishments from previous roles or internships.
• Tweak your experience and skills sections for each job you apply for. Don’t talk about Word if you’re applying to be a junior data scientist—focus on Python and R. You’ll get more responses and find jobs that suit you better. 
• You’ve spent all of that time in college studying hard, so don’t be afraid to brag! Mention your GPA if you’re proud of it, and include relevant courses and certifications, such as the HubSpot Inbound Marketing Certification, PMI, or GAIQ.

A resume objective won’t hurt if you have a clear career path in mind, but it’s not necessary. If you include it, make it more about what you bring to the company than your personal dreams. For example, mention how you want to utilize your experience in project management to maintain high employee retention and customer satisfaction.

Leverage your experience from internships, volunteering, short summer jobs, or even school projects to show off your skills. Don’t forget measurable impact: recruiters will love hearing that you “led a team of 5 to complete an Instagram campaign with stories and daily posts” instead of “completed a social media project.”

Pick a resume template that’s clear and concise. Put your contact information, education, major, GPA, and certifications in a visible spot. List the most essential skills for the job and work-adjacent experience.

• Resume Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Resume Examples Nurse Student Internship Teacher Accountant View all
• Resume Builder
• Cover Letter Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Cover Letter Examples Nursing Administrative Assistant Internship Graduate Teacher View all
• Cover Letter Builder
• Resume Examples
• College Graduate

College Graduate resume examples & templates

Choosing the right resume format for a new graduate 

Include your contact information, make use of a summary, outline your college graduate work experience: a strong report card , including the most relevant skills for a recent graduate position , detail your education & relevant certifications as a recent graduate, pick the right resume layout and design for a new graduate resume.

Job hunting as a college graduate can often feel like a competitive sport. When you’re up against hundreds of other fresh graduates with the same diploma in hand, your resume needs to be sharp and professional to stand out and land your perfect entry-level position. Whether you hold a degree in computer science, business, or foreign languages, your resume serves as your professional toolkit—an essential resource for presenting the perfect blend of skills and experiences to secure your foothold in the world of your chosen industry.

As a recent college graduate, first impressions matter, and potential employers form judgments based on the initial glimpse of your resume. The challenge for recent graduates is to showcase what sets them apart, both academically and professionally via internships and extracurricular experiences. If you're ready to elevate your resume game, we're here to help you write your way to success in your entry-level job search.

Resume guide for a college graduate

Land your first job after graduation 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 graduate resume example will cover the following:

How to write a college graduate resume

• Choosing the right resume format for college graduate
• How to add your contact information
• Using summaries
• Adding your college graduate experience
• Listing education and relevant experience
• Picking the right resume design/layout
• What job prospects and salary you can expect as a college graduate

To get started writing the best resume for a recent college graduate, you’ll need to understand 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

Your new grad resume is your initial introduction to potential employers and serves as the gateway for them to get to know you better. Your objective is to show hiring managers what makes you unique and what experiences you’ve gained beyond your degree.

To construct a compelling narrative, start by thoroughly reviewing the job description. Ask yourself a few questions to help you determine the company’s ideal candidate:

• Is this role suitable for a recent grad?
• What is the work environment like?
• What is the corporate culture of this company?
• What kind of tasks and responsibilities are associated with the position?
• How large is the team you might be working with?
• What problem does the company want the person working in this position to solve?

While this may seem like a mundane exercise, understanding the nuances of the prospective workplace allows you to tailor your resume to position yourself as the ideal candidate. Identify the employer's objectives and illustrate how your skills and experiences align seamlessly with their goals—this is the key element that sets your application apart.

On your resume, aim to emphasize achievements rather than just responsibilities. While many recent graduates possess fundamental skills, can you showcase instances where you went beyond the basics? Have you contributed to the success of previous professional endeavors like internships? How have you enhanced the overall experience for those you worked with? Let your resume reflect your track record of success in your college and extracurricular activities.

Consider the ATS (Applicant Tracking System)

If you’re a recent college grad, you’ll likely be applying to positions using online application portals. You should be aware of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Algorithms built into these portals that scan resumes for specific keywords outlined in the job description. Resumes that don’t rank high enough can get filtered out before ever being reviewed by a hiring manager. 

Follow these steps to increase your chances of making it to the employer’s desk:

• Closely align your resume with the employer's language, incorporating keywords strategically, especially in the summary and skills section.
• Keep your resume format clear and straightforward to facilitate easy scanning by ATS, avoiding excessive graphics or elements that may confuse the system.
• Don’t engage in keyword stuffing—adding misleading, hidden, or excessive keywords on your resume just to beat the bots. Hiring managers frown upon this practice.

Selecting the best format for your recent graduate resume largely hinges on your level of professional experience. Whenever possible, we recommend the reverse chronological resume format with a focus on the employment history section as this is the format hiring managers expect to see from professional candidates. If your work history is limited, you can include internships and college jobs (related to your field of study) as part of your employment history. 

If your work history is limited or predominantly consists of jobs outside of your field of study, the functional resume format could be advantageous. This format places a greater spotlight on your skill set, allowing you to highlight your competencies and capabilities instead of past roles. It can be a good option for fresh grads or those transitioning to a new field.

For a head start, check our resume examples tailored to the reverse chronological format to guide you through the process. You can easily modify them for your own experience inside of our intuitive resume builder .

For more ideas, inspiration and direction, check out our hundreds of resume samples in categories like retail , hospitality and administration, and those for the following education-related occupations.

• 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

Your contact information is an essential part of your fresh grad resume, but one that many recent graduates get wrong. Your contact details should be prominently displayed in your resume header so that potential employers can easily reach you to set up an interview. Here are the essential pieces of information:

• Full name and professional title . As a fresh grad, it’s OK to use the professional title of the entry-level role you are applying to.
• Phone number . This should be a number you check regularly and is accessible during business hours. Make sure you have a working voicemail so a hiring manager can leave you a message.
• Email address . You’d be surprised how many recent graduates are still using silly email addresses. Your email address should be professional and include some part of your name. Make a new email account once you graduate as you should not include a .edu address on a job application.
• LinkedIn or portfolio website . An up-to-date LinkedIn profile is one of the best ways to signal to a potential employer that you take your career seriously. In some fields such as design or journalism, you will also want to include a link to your professional portfolio website.

Your contact information is key to landing an interview and the job. Make sure it is easy to find and easy to read.

• Jamie Johnson
• Research assistant
• 000-080-0600
• [email protected]
• Jamie “Da Best” Johnson
• Recent graduate

On a recent college graduate resume, a well-written summary is a superpower. In just a few concise sentences, you have the opportunity to present yourself as an outstanding candidate who has both the theoretical and practical knowledge needed to contribute to their organization and enhance the overall workplace experience.

A well-crafted summary extends beyond a mere listing of your previous roles—that information can be detailed further down your resume. The primary aim of the summary is to spotlight your skills and your professional personality which makes you a rising star. Make sure to write with energy and use verbs such as "applied, implemented, optimized, increased, and led," and quantify your accomplishments and present yourself as motivated and responsible.

Your summary should emphasize your strongest skills as a recent graduate and explain why you are the perfect fit for the specific job to which you are applying. Again, refer to the job description to develop a picture of the company’s ideal candidate. Embrace your distinctive strengths, and allow your summary to paint a vivid picture of the value you bring.

Keep in mind that hiring managers are busy people. Your summary is your initial opportunity to capture their attention and encourage them to read the rest of your resume. Keep it concise, focused, and positive to show why you’re the candidate the company has been looking for.

You can find our resume example summaries for recent graduates below:

Motivated and dynamic marketer with a recent Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, equipped with a solid foundation of key digital marketing principles and a proactive mindset. Possesses excellent analytical and problem-solving skills honed through rigorous coursework and internships, contributing to successful project outcomes. Eager to apply academic knowledge and practical experiences to a corporate role, bringing a fresh perspective and dedication to achieving organizational goals.

Motivated and creative graphic designer with a recent degree in fine arts, with a passion for visual storytelling and innovative design concepts. Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite, with a keen eye for aesthetics and attention to detail. A proactive and collaborative team player, I have successfully translated conceptual ideas into visually appealing designs during internships and coursework projects. Eager to contribute a fresh perspective and creativity to a dynamic creative team, leveraging a blend of academic knowledge and practical skills.

Energetic recent graduate seeking a part-time role in the retail sector. Holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, providing a solid foundation in customer service, inventory management, and business operations. Possesses strong communication and interpersonal skills, cultivated through coursework and previous experiences. Excited to apply business principles and enthusiasm to contribute to the success of a major fashion retailer.

Your recent academic journey is a valuable asset for potential employers but it can’t be the only experience listed on your resume. To compete among other grads and established professionals, you’ll need to create a strong employment history section tailored to the specific job you're applying for.

Begin by highlighting your most recent academic experiences at the top and work backward, capturing your educational background over the last few years. We recommend finding at least three “professional” experiences which can include student jobs, leadership positions, internships, and any other relevant experiences that directly align with the position you are pursuing. 

For each role, create a subheading with the job title, employer or school name, dates worked, and location. Then, construct 3-4 concise, results-based bullet points outlining your responsibilities and achievements in that role. Begin each point with an action verb and aim to incorporate quantifiable data and statistics whenever applicable. This structured presentation ensures that your resume will make you look like a qualified candidate, even as a recent grad.

Who works for whom?

One mistake commonly found on new graduate resumes is the sense that the employer’s job opening would be a big opportunity for the recent grad. When writing your resume, remember that your goal is to show how your skills and experience would benefit the employer and not how getting the job would be a great stepping stone in your career. Even if you don’t have much professional experience yet, your work ethic and fresh ideas can be a vital asset to a company.

You can find even more sample sentences in our college resume example below:

Marketing Intern at LA Athletic Company, Los Angeles  June 2020 - August 2020 

• Supported 5-person marketing team on seasonal email campaign which resulted in 2x higher than average open rate.
• Conducted market research on competitors by synthesizing data from 20 sources to inform 2021 strategy.

Waitress/Hostess at Champions Sports Bar and Grill, Los Angeles  September 2017 - March 2020 

• Ensured high quality customer service leading to various positive online reviews and comments.
• Trained 3 new team members on opening and closing procedures resulting in higher restaurant efficiency.

Your skills section is a crucial step in beating the automated resume scanners and getting reviewed by a hiring manager. While this section may seem like a simple list, it’s important to craft it carefully based on the job description and include a mix of hard and soft skills.

First, let’s look at the difference between hard and soft skills. Hard skills encompass concrete, technical proficiencies specific to your college degree and field of study, such as data analysis, programming languages, or project management. Conversely, soft skills involve interpersonal qualities and attributes contributing to effective collaboration and communication. These may include adaptability, communication, leadership, and teamwork.

As a recent college graduate, your resume should strike a balance, showcasing both the technical proficiency (hard skills) learned in your coursework and relevant to your field and the interpersonal strengths (soft skills) crucial for effective professional interactions. Make use of the employer’s exact language from the job description when presenting your skills, ensuring alignment with the employer's expectations. For instance, if the job posting emphasizes "team collaboration," incorporate this exact phrase in your skills section rather than using a more general term like "team player." This precision not only optimizes your resume for automated scans but also resonates more effectively with hiring managers.

You can find our adaptable skills resume sample below.

Key Skills and Proficiencies 

As a recent grad, your education is one of your strongest selling points. This is also the only time in your career where your education section can sit on top of your experience section. Make sure to list your degrees in reverse chronological order (most recent to oldest) and include the degree name, school, dates attended, and location. You should also include one or two bullet points with academic achievements that are relevant to the job you are applying for.

The education section is also the best place to add memberships, organizations, clubs, scholarships, and certifications you hold. Check out our adaptable education resume sample below.

Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, University of Southern California, Los Angeles  September 2019 - May 2021 

• Relevant Coursework: Marketing Research Methods, Consumer Behavior Analysis, Advertising Campaigns

Your professional presentation as a fresh grad extends beyond the writing of your resume to the layout and design of your application. To create a strong first impression, you’ll need to pay attention to the spacing, fonts , and color used on your resume. As with your writing, your layout should be tailored to the job you are applying for. A professionally designed resume template makes it easy to test out different styles.

Above all, remember to keep a balance of white space to text on your resume so that your resume is easy to digest at a glance. Make sure your name appears in a larger font size and your contact information is prominently displayed in your header. We recommend choosing just one accent color and font style and using bold or italic text for emphasis. Remember, when in doubt, less is more. A dialed-down resume won’t impact your chances of landing the job the way an eccentric, colorful one will.

Key takeaways for your college graduate resume

• Your fresh graduate resume is the key to unlocking your first career opportunities.
• While writing your resume, make sure to think about how your skills and education can serve an employer’s needs.
• Your education section is a great place to add clubs, scholarships, and academic achievements.
• Don’t overlook your resume layout. Our adaptable recent grad resume sample can help you get started.

Beautiful ready-to-use resume templates

Protect your data

This site uses cookies and related technologies for site operation, and analytics as described in our Privacy Policy . You may choose to consent to our use of these technologies, reject non-essential technologies, or further manage your preferences.

• Resume and Cover Letter
• Perfect Resume Guide for...

Perfect Resume Guide for Recent College Graduates

7 min read · Updated on July 30, 2024

Here's what to include in your entry-level college graduate resume

As you near your college graduation date, entry into the workforce gets closer and closer. That said, there are many factors to consider as you begin your post-grad job search. One of the most important considerations is how to develop your job marketing materials, like your resume, to grab the attention of employers. What resume standards do you need to consider, and what can you do to create a recent college graduate resume that stands out from the crowd?

Lucky for you, TopResume partnered with TheJobNetwork to produce a webinar all about resume writing for recent college graduates.. Watch the following video to learn how to write the perfect recent college graduate resume for an entry-level position.

Recent college graduate resume guide

Below are 14 reasons why the above example is an excellent resume for a recent college graduate.

1. He used a professional-looking email address

One thing recent college graduate resumes often include is an unprofessional email address. The email address [email protected] may have been funny when you were in college, but it's not the best choice to represent your professional brand in the working world. Do yourself a favor and set up a professional-looking email address that's reserved for your job-seeking activities.

2. It includes a customized link to his LinkedIn profile

Not only is LinkedIn a great place to build your professional brand and make connections, but recruiters also expect to find you on there.  In fact, a survey found that more than 90 percent of employers use LinkedIn to search for and evaluate job candidates. Make it easy for them to find you by including the link to your profile at the top of your resume. Take it a step further and customize your LinkedIn profile URL so it matches your brand and fits nicely on your resume.

3. The professional summary isn't full of fluff

It can be tempting to throw a bunch of buzzwords such as “ambitious” and “self-starter” into the summary section of your recent college graduate resume template, but employers know these are pure fluff and won't be impressed when they read them. 

Don't tell employers how you're a great team player. Instead, explain how you served on a committee to raise money for your lacrosse team or received accolades for a group project during your internship. Click on the following link for more tips to craft your professional summary .

4. Nicholas optimized his recent college graduate resume with relevant keywords

Your job application needs to get past multiple gatekeepers before it makes it into the hands of a hiring manager. Take a look at the job listings you're interested in and identify the key terms and phrases that routinely pop up. 

If you have those skills or were exposed to that industry or process, incorporate them into your resume. You can add them to a Core Competencies section, similar to Nicholas' resume, or incorporate them throughout the Work Experience section.

5. There aren't any mentions of high school

Hiring managers are interested in what you've done lately, not what you accomplished four or more years before you went to college as high school students. Focus on highlighting your activities, accomplishments, and the work experience that took place during your college career, calling special attention to anything that directly supports your job goals.

6. He lists his GPA

Only list your GPA on your entry-level resume if it's a 3.0/4.0 or higher. If the GPA in your major is higher than your overall GPA, feel free to use that instead. However, keep in mind that employers will know why you didn't include your GPA and may ask you about it during the interview process .

7. Nicholas didn't include his coursework

If you've held at least one internship that's relevant to your degree and career goals, there's no reason to also include a list of the courses you took. Employers will value your internship experience over the stuff you learned in the classroom any day of the week. 

However, if you did not intern, include a list of the 400-level courses you took that are most closely tied to your job goals to show hiring managers what subjects you're familiar with.

8. It plays up Nicholas' selling points

The format of your entry-level college-graduate resume will depend on the information you have to work with. If you have a ton of great internship experience, highlight that just below your professional resume summary and education sections. 

If you didn't hold any jobs that were related to your future career, play up other information instead, such as the high-level courses you took, major projects you participated in, academic or athletic honors you received, or extra-curricular activities and volunteer work that demonstrate your leadership roles and skills. 

In Nicholas' case, we divided his job experience into two categories so his relevant internships took the spotlight.    

9. Each employer has a company description

Help employers get a better understanding of the industries and work environments you were exposed to by including a line that describes each company with which you held an internship. 

If you're tight on space, feel free to eliminate this information for your summer jobs that aren't related to your current career goals. You can also omit this information from your internships if they were all held at companies with big, well-known brand names.

10. Nicholas bulleted the most important information

Use bullet points to draw attention to the information you believe recruiters will care most about. This may include an accomplishment or other major contribution you helped your team achieve.

11. Action verbs and numbers are used to describe his work experience

Notice how the bullets under Nicholas' roles begin with an action verb? This information focuses on how Nicholas contributed to an end result. When you're new to the workforce, you may not have many major accomplishments and contributions to include in your resume; however, use action verbs (e.g. created, led, managed, improved, developed, built) to describe your activities.

Nicholas also included quantifiable data to highlight his achievements. When showcasing accomplishments, it's best to include as many numbers as possible to represent the level of results achieved.  

12. His extracurricular activities and honors are provided

Your first resume out of college should play up your best selling points. This may include any projects or extracurricular activities you held while attending college, as well as any scholarships or other honors you received during that time. Click on the following link for more tips on how to build a resume using college involvement as experience .  

13. Nicholas' relevant skills are listed

Take a closer look at the job descriptions that interest you and note what technical skills they expect you to possess. This may include proficiency with a particular software program or language skill that's considered valuable in your chosen field. If you have a working knowledge of these platforms, list them on your resume. 

If you keep seeing a skill or tool mentioned that you don't know much about, look for free or low-cost online courses on the topic to bolster your skill set. Resources such as edX , SkillShare , and LinkedIn Learning are great places to start.

14. References are not included

As an entry-level professional, you only get one page of resume real estate — don't waste it by adding references or the phrase “References available upon request.” Employers usually won't ask for this information until you make it to a face-to-face interview, and they know you'll provide it if they request it.

Additional recent college graduate resume examples

Looking for more samples and advice? Click on the following links to check out a recording of our recent resume-writing webinar and take a look at another recent college graduate resume sample that TopResume's resident Career Expert Amanda Augustine provided for Business Insider.

Need help with your recent college graduate resume? Learn more about our professional resume-writing services to get a resume like the one above. You can also submit it for a free resume review to get started!

This blog was originally written by Amanda Augustine and has been updated by Ronda Suder. 

Recommended reading:

How to Check if My Resume is ATS-Friendly for Free

The Hottest Entry-Level Jobs for Recent Grads

17+ Job Resources for College Graduates

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

From Bland to Beautiful: How We Made This Professional's Resume Shine

See how your resume stacks up.

Career Advice Newsletter

Our experts gather the best career & resume tips weekly. Delivered weekly, always free.

Thanks! Career advice is on its way.

Share this article:

Let's stay in touch.

Subscribe today to get job tips and career advice that will come in handy.

Your information is secure. Please read our privacy policy for more information.

• English (UK)
• Resume Examples

Recent College Graduate Resume Examples for 2024 (+Tips)

Your life has begun! It’s exciting, but employers don’t care about your schooling. Show them you’re more than just another sheepskin with this recent college graduate resume example.

Congratulations. You earned your diploma. But that's just the start of your journey. To get a job, you need experience. But you can’t get experience without a job, so you’re stuck in a vicious circle.

Or… are you? Even if you haven’t worked while at college, you’ve still got tons of experience and skills that you can put on your new grad resume. You just need to know to structure your college graduate resume the right way.

In this guide:

• A tried-and-tested recent college graduate resume template that gets jobs
• A real-life new graduate resume sample from a recent college grad like you.
• Tips for writing a college grad resume that shows you’re no mere newbie.
• Hacks for using the full potential of the education section on a new grad resume.
• How to make your education section shine in a resume for college graduates.
• The right approach to listing skills on your college graduate resume.

Save hours of work and get a job-winning resume like this. Try our resume builder with 20+ resume templates and create your resume now.

Create your resume now

What users say about ResumeLab:

I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your resume.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan  My previous resume was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

Looking for a different kind of resume help? We've got you covered:

• Academic CV Template
• College Application Resume
• College Student Resume
• Computer Science (CS) Student Resume
• Engineering Internship Resume
• Engineering Student Resume
• Entry-Level Positions Resume
• Graduate School Application Resume
• Help Desk IT Resume
• High School Graduate Resume
• High School Student Resume
• Internship Resume
• Law School Application Resume
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) Application Resume
• Medical Student Resume
• No Experience Resume
• Nursing Student Resume
• Scholarship Resume
• Student Resume
• Undergraduate College Resume
• Undergraduate Research Resume

Haven't found what you're looking for? Check all our  resume samples.

Our review of more than 500,000 resumes built with our tool revealed that*:

- Fresh graduates, on average, report having 2 previous jobs. - 29.73% of our users include certifications on their resumes. - Median resume creation time for graduates is 12.2 minutes.  * The data comes from the last 12 months (August 2023-August 2024).

What is a College Graduate Resume?

A college graduate resume is a document that presents your education, extracurricular activities, and skills. The college graduate resume should be short, to the point, and tailored to the job.  Make sure to highlight any relevant work experience or internship as doing so will make you stand out from the crowd.

Recent College Graduate Resume Sample You Can Copy and Use

Sherry Dantas

Personal Info

Phone: 218-395-4287

Email: [email protected]

Portfolio: www.sherrydantas.com

linkedin.com/in/sherryzdantas

twitter.com/sherryzdantas

Prolific programmer skilled in Python and Java. Seeking to exceed coding KPIs at Procore. Created data analytics app that tracks 10,000 sensors. Developed scalable business management app with MySQL database. 2nd place contestant, TopCoder contest intermediate division.

BS Computer Science, Augsburg University

2015–2019

Data Science and Analytics

• Created soil sensor analytics that can track 10,000 sensors.
• Maintained 4.0 GPA in Data Analytics coursework.
• Developed traffic optimization app that would cut traffic 20%.

Machine Learning

• Developed "money ball" app to build more effective sports teams.
• Wrote social media sentiment tracking app that won school fair.

Cloud Computing

• Assisted with development of open source cloud app SaaS to create legal forms. Forms have 500+ users per month.
• Created and managed 4 virtual machines.

Game Development & Design

• Developed 2 single-player games with Android Studio.
• Created models of 15+ 3D objects.

2015–2109

• Created bank management system in C. Added scalable MySQL database to track customer accounts, profiles, and preferences.
• Developed golf score tracking app with Android Studio that links to Google Sheets by API. Included data visualization functionality.
• Worked in team of 4 programmers to create RESTful API that works with Amazon to build store product databases.
• Wrote Pacman game in Swift and Java that works on desktop, Android, and iPhone. Received 1,400 downloads and a 4-star rating average.

Portfolio Website

SherryDantas.com

2018—2nd Place, TopCoder Intermediate Division

Additional Activities

• Attended Global Game Jam Hackathon 2019.
• President, TrogdorByterz Coding Club with 18 members.
• Teach music therapy classes to at-risk high school students.
• Avid road cyclist.

Publications

• Why Big Data Needs Machine Learning,  Visitor Panel
• Pairs Programming Best Practices,  HackSource

Hard Skills:   Java, Python, C, PHP, app design, testing, debugging

Soft Skills:   Teamwork, critical thinking, communication, problem solving

This resume is so impressive that we bet you didn’t notice that Sherry doesn’t have any in-house work experience! That’s right, she’s never been employed as a programmer.

Here’s how to make your new grad resume just as awesome.

1. Use a Professional College Graduate Resume Format

If you don’t look the part, they won’t hire you. That’s why resume formatting makes a difference.

Your safest bet is to go with a slightly tweaked version of the reverse-chronological resume format .  A typical reverse-chronological resume starts with a candidate’s work experience, followed by their education and then their skills, certifications, and so on. In your case, start with the education section and put your experience after it.

Then build it out like this:

The Foolproof Graduate Resume Format

• Opt for a 1-page resume —there’s no way you can fill a two-page resume with relevant achievements yet
• Set 1-inch margins on all sides
• Use Didot, Calibri, or another  respected resume font . Set the font size to 10–12 pt.
• Make these resume sections : header, objective, education, experience, skills, and other sections if necessary.
• Don’t try to fill every square inch of your resume with text. Leave generous amounts of whitespace around each resume section.
• Use a professional resume builder with a built-in resume template library if you want to take the guesswork out of formatting your resume
• Unless your employer specifically wants your resume to be a DOCX file, send in a PDF resume . Otherwise, your carefully crafted resume could look like a trainwreck when opened on another device.

Expert Hint:  More than 35% of recent college graduates work in low-paid jobs that don’t need degrees. To avoid that group, start a robust networking effort now .

2. Write a Recent College Graduate Resume Objective or Summary

You’re not a clone. But you’d never know it once you’re buried in a stack of college graduate resumes. Worse, you’re up against people with years of experience. You’ve got to show your value fast.

Do it with a solid resume objective  (avoid writing a  resume summary  unless you already have some work experience under your belt).

That’s a brief paragraph with a couple greatest hits.

• An adjective (prolific, resourceful)
• Your job title
• How and where you’ll help (exceed coding KPIs at Procore)
• Best accomplishments (created own paid file clerk internship...)
• Some key skills (2nd place, TopCoder contest...)

Skip the resume objective for now and complete the other sections of your resume first. You’ll thank us later. Take a look at these college graduate resume examples and see what resume objectives look like in action:

Resume for a Recent College Graduate: Resume Objectives

Both of those list app development and MySQL . But, the first one adds created app that tracks 10,000 sensors and developed scalable MySQL database.  That’s the difference between saying you can do something and showing you have done it.

Expert Hint: College graduates earn 38% more than high school graduates. But to make college pay for itself, show what you did in school. That’s next.

3. Put College on Your College Grad Resume (That’s Not as Straightforward as You Might Think)

You’re in the top 36%. That’s how many in your age bracket have college degrees. But there’s a catch.

If you just list education, you’ll look sophomoric. So, make your resume education section count. See this recent graduate resume sample:

College Graduate Resume Example—Education

Game Development & Design 

You showed school projects with skills that matter to employers.You can stretch out your recent college graduate resume education section into skills, classes, and projects like that, especially if you’re a graduate with no experience.

As you progress in your career and gain more professional achievements , your education section will grow shorter and shorter until all that remains is just a brief mention of your latest degree.

The ResumeLab builder is more than looks. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Easy. Improve your resume in our resume builder now .

CREATE YOUR RESUME NOW

Nail it all with a splash of color, choose a clean font, and highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You're the perfect candidate, and we'll prove it. Use our resume builder now .

4. Write a Job-Winning Skills Section for Your College Graduate Resume

What skills go in a recent college graduate resume? Here’s a list of the ones employers like:

Resume for College Graduate: Soft Skills Section

• Interpersonal skills
• Collaboration
• Oral communication
• Written communication
• Problem solving
• Critical thinking
• Active listening
• Self motivation
• Computer Skills

The skills on this list are called soft skills or transferable skills. You can put these skills on your college graduate resume when applying for almost any job.

But most jobs need other skills, too—for example, no one’s going to hire a programmer who doesn’t list programming skills on their resume! So… which technical skills should you put on your resume?

That depends on the job ad. Read it, find the skills they want, and show how you’ve moved mountains with them. That’s called targeting your resume .

But, don’t put too many skills for a resume for college graduates. That looks suspiciously like lying. Look at these recent college graduate resume samples:

Say the job wants these skills: C , MySQ L , Android Studio , collaboration , Java , sales , and problem solving .

To prove these skills, you can create resume sections named Projects and Experience and show how you’ve used your skills in practice.

College Graduate Resume: Listing Experience and Skills

• Created bank management system in C . Added scalable MySQL database to track customer accounts, profiles, and preferences.
• Collaborated in team of 4 programmers to create RESTful API that works with Amazon to build store product databases.

Professional Experience

Video Kayaker

North American River Runners

2017–2019

• Sold 10% more trip videos to guests than company average.
• Used problem solving skills to shoot and produce entertaining trip videos while managing class V whitewater.

For contrast, here’s a bad college graduate resume example:

• Kayaked whitewater rivers. Produced daily trip videos.
• Worked closely with other videoboaters.
• Showed up on time and pitched in with necessary side work.

The second of those college graduate resume examples lacks C, Android Studio, and all the other skills the job requires. Unless the programming job also requires kayaking skills (for whatever reason), this candidate isn’t going to get far.

5. Add Bonus Material to Your College Graduate Resume

To impress employers, first impress yourself. Look back on your past. What have you achieved? What skills have you already used? Add those things in a few “extra” resume sections.

Try a couple of the following:

• Associations
• Clubs/groups
• School honor societies
• Conferences
• Volunteering positions
• Freelancing
• Additional activities
• Certifications
• Sports teams or pursuits

These sample college graduate resumes show how:

College Graduate Resume—Extra Sections

• Attend regular hackathons.
• Road biking.

Which of those college graduate resume examples would convince you? The first one works because it lists accomplishments that are highly relevant to the job.

Expert Hint: Don’t forget to write a recent graduate cover letter with your resume. To wow recruiters, describe your passion for the company, and why you want to help.

Haven't written your cover letter yet? See:

• Cover Letter for Graduate School Application
• Recent Graduate Cover Letter

Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

How to write a recent graduate resume:

• Use the college graduate resume template up top. It lets you show experience without a work history.
• Don’t just “list” your education. Show academic excellence and achievement based on skills.
• In you resume experience section, add proof you’ve learned the skills recruiters want.
• Communicate your character by adding resume sections like projects or volunteering.

Got questions on how to write a great college graduate resume? Having trouble getting a response to your recent graduate resume? Leave a comment. We’ll be happy to reply!

About ResumeLab’s Editorial Process

At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines , ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets . Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.

Having published over 200 career-advice articles, Tom Gerencer is a career expert who covers the whole array of job-seeking topics for people at all career stages, from interns to C-suite members. His insights, commentary, and articles reach over a million readers every month. With inside knowledge of key industry players and in-depth research, Tom helps job seekers with advice across all professions and career stages.

Was it interesting? Here are similar articles

New Grad Nurse (RN) Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

You chose a career that keeps you on your toes and saves lives. But how will the HR team know you’re worth your clipboard? Show them with your new grad nurse resume.

Tom Gerencer

Career Expert

KPMG Audit Associate Resume Example for 2024

Elevate your career with our expert tips on creating a KPMG resume that opens doors to various positions in this company. Read on for insights on making every section count.

Dominika Kowalska, CPRW

Customer Service Representative Resume—Sample & Tips

Create an exceptional customer service representative resume by showcasing the best of your skills and experience. See our sample and tips to make the most of your job application!

Mariusz Wawrzyniak

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Career Planning
• Finding a Job

College Graduate Resume Examples and Writing Tips

What to Include in Your Resume

Resume writing tips for college grads, college graduate resume template, college graduate resume example, more college resume samples.

If you're a recent college graduate, you might not have much work experience. However, you can still write a strong resume that will get you hired. By emphasizing unpaid internships, volunteer work, and positions in school organizations, you can show you have the skills needed to succeed in the workforce.

Read below for tips on writing a strong college graduate resume. Also see below for a resume sample for a recent college graduate.

Begin with a resume summary.  A  resume summary  (sometimes called a “summary of qualifications” or “qualifications profile”) is a statement (either narrative or formatted in bullets) at the top of a resume that immediately attracts a hiring manager’s attention to the skills you would bring to their organization.

The summary statement should be placed immediately below your name and contact information. 

Use this section to demonstrate that you have the qualifications that are emphasized in the job listing of the position you’re applying for.

Use keywords.  To make your resume stand out, use words from the job listing in your resume. You might include these  keywords  in your resume summary, your descriptions of work experiences, and/or your section headings. For example, if the listing says the company is seeking a candidate who is “tech-savvy,” you might include a section called “Technological Skills.” Again, use words that clearly link your resume to the job listing.

Mention a high GPA.  At this point, at the beginning of your career, it’s a good strategy to include your GPA on your resume if it is 3.5 or above. You should also include any academic awards (Dean’s List, scholarships, etc.). After you’ve racked up three or four years of work experience, though, you can remove this information from your resume, replacing it with examples of professional achievements.

Emphasize your soft skills.  “ Soft skills ” like teamwork , leadership, or good communication talents are always a selling point with employers. For many entry-level positions, they can be as important as job-specific  hard skills . Describe how, during your college years, you have led or contributed to team projects, either in the classroom or as a member of campus or extracurricular organizations. Additional soft skills that are good to mention include: active  listening skills ,  “people” skills , decision-making, and self-motivation.

Emphasize education.  As a recent college graduate, your education is one of your strongest assets. Include an  “Education” section  towards the top of your resume. Include the college you attended, your graduation date, and your major and minor. If you have a strong  GPA , include that as well. You might also include any study abroad experiences. Most employers see a well-traveled student as a plus.

Highlight any related experience.  If you have any work experience, include this. However, you can also include any other relevant experience. This might include volunteer experience, unpaid internships, or positions in school organizations. Even if these are unpaid positions, they can still display the qualities that will make you a strong candidate for a job opening.

Use resume examples.  When writing your first resume out of college, it can be hard to know where to start. Examples can give you ideas on how to structure your resume and what kind of language to include. Check out these student resume samples, as well as the sample below. However, make sure to always revise an example to fit your own background and experience.

Proofread and edit.  Thoroughly  proofread your resume  for spelling and grammar errors before submitting it. Also make sure your format is consistent: for example, you should use the same size bullet points throughout your resume. Ask a friend, family member, or college career counselor to read through your resume as well.

This is an example of a resume for a college graduate. Download the resume template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Here's a text version of the resume example to review.

College Graduate Resume Example (Text Version)

Susan Quigley New York, NY 123-555-8910 Cell: 555-555-1234 susan.quigley@abcu.edu 

CAREER OBJECTIVE

Soon-to-graduate honors college student, fluent in Spanish and with several years of teaching and tutoring the language to adults and students, seeks a position as a translator at a top East Coast firm.

ABC UNIVERSITY, New York, NY Bachelor of Arts in Education , May 2022 Double Majors: English and Latin American Studies; Minor: Spanish; Overall GPA: 3.875

• Honors and dean’s list every semester.
• Studied abroad in Bogota, Colombia, January-May 2020.
• Served as president of the school Spanish club; tutored nearly two dozen students in Spanish.
• Received three “Best Student Awards.”

RELATED EXPERIENCE

CERVANTES LIBRARY, New York, NY Library Assistant , September 2019-Present Perform general administrative duties to support professional staff and assist students with research.

• Designed a presentation, published to the university website, outlining how to most effectively use all of ABC University’s facilities when undertaking a research project.
• Received award for “Outstanding Student Employee of the Year” due to excellent customer service and research skills.

CALLES Y SUEÑOS CULTURAL SPACE, Bogota, Columbia Intern , Spring 2029 Helped design and implement programs in which community-based artists traveled to schools to work with children, teaching them about expression through art.

• Assisted teaching complimentary English lessons to community members of all ages.

QUEENS COMMUNITY LIBRARY, Queens, NY English Tutor/Volunteer , January 2018-May 2018 Assisted students in writing and proofreading essays, utilizing rhetorical devices.

• Cataloged thousands of donated books, CDs, and DVDs in Excel database.
• Started a weekly book club group to help elementary students learn basic Spanish.

Other Experience:

Summer Counselor, NY Arts Camp, Catskill, NY • Trombonist, All-State Wind Ensemble • Swim Team Assistant Coach, YMCA, Brooklyn, NY • Editor-in-Chief, ABC University Student Newspaper

Review more resume examples for college students and recent graduates , listed by type of position and type of job.

How to Get Your Resume Noticed

• A resume summary, which briefly lists your qualifications and soft skills, will spark a hiring manager’s immediate interest in your candidacy.
• Emphasize the skills that are requested in the “Preferred Qualifications” section of the job announcement.
• Highlight your achievements, including significant college and extracurricular accomplishments.
• Carefully edit your resume to correct grammatical, spelling, and formatting errors.

The New Grad Resume Guide: Everything You Need to Get Started

How to approach a resume as a new graduate, with everything you need to get you started.

Ready to show your future employer what you can do?

There’s no better way to do it than with a neat, concise, strongly written resume that clearly lays out your accomplishments, accolades, and skills for competitive employment. As a recent grad looking for work, there are certain attributes you’ll want to prioritize on your resume, especially if applying to an entry level position that focuses heavily on educational requirements and graduation dates.

What your resume needs

• Personal information : This includes your full name, address, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile link (if you have one). Make sure the email you include is professional.
• A strong objective.
• An updated education section : You might have written a resume before for a part- or full-time job while in college. For those of you who have, this might be the first time you add that bachelor’s degree to your resume.
• Relevant work experience .
• Honors and achievements : Because you want to sell the best version of you that you can!

Picture what you want your resume to look like. Having a format in mind will make it easier to organize your information in a concise, attractive way. You can find free resume templates everywhere from Google Drive to Microsoft Word, or you can create your own using Canva or with the Adobe Creative Suite. You can even buy unique resume and cover letter templates on Etsy!

No matter which design you choose, your personal information should always go at the top in first name last name format. Your name should serve as the title, so to speak, and is generally bolded or in a larger font when compared to the rest of the text. Include the rest of your personal information below. Don’t forget to include any relevant portfolio links if you’re applying for a creative job.

The objective

A typical entry-level resume may include either an objective or summary. However, summaries are best saved for applicants who have more extensive work experience. Objectives are best suited for new grads and anyone starting their career.

Objectives are formal in tone, and should be written specifically for each employer. Use these one to three sentences, max, to convey what you are seeking in a professional role.

For example:

Dedicated nurse in top 5% of graduating class seeking an opportunity to work at Allies’ Pediatric Nursing Unit, fostering healthy and stable recovery utilizing advanced knowledge of human growth and development.

Notice how much weight a strong objective can pull. It should describe your value, attributes, educational accolades, and desire to work at the particular company you’re working for. When applying to several jobs, you must remember to tweak this every time.

Your education

The education section of a resume is standard. But, if you’re a recent grad, you’ll want to pay closer attention to this section to include your academic achievements. Note that you should place it right below your objective, listing your bachelor’s degree and any other relevant certificates. Do not include your high school information.

This section should include:

• The full name of your college or university
• Your degree
• Dates in school, including the date of graduation
• GPA (if 3.0 or higher)

Nebraska BSN University

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Aug. 2010 - May 2015

Honors and achievements

It’s worthwhile to note where your honors and achievements should go.

If you have one or two great achievements you want to list, it may be best to include it within your education section. But if you have several achievements, especially if they can help you get the job, keep it as a separate section to avoid convoluting the education section.

No special formatting is required. Feel free to include any of the following:

• Any societies you were a member of
• Any honors you earned upon graduation (e.g. Cum Laude)
• Any leadership activities you participated in

Your work experience

Intern , volunteer, full-time employee… whichever it may be, include as many relevant experiences as possible. Relevance is the key, though. You might be tempted to fill this space with whichever experience you have just to add to your resume.

But if you don’t have any relevant experience… It’s okay. Analyze which transferable skills can apply to the job. For example; if you volunteered at a hospital that required data entry and you familiarized yourself with Microsoft Excel, include that.

Be precise in how you articulate your experiences, too. Keep your statements about your experiences and skills short, impactful, and actionable. When listing them, include the place of employment, your title/position, dates employed, and accomplishments for each, in descending order.

Here is an example for someone with transferable skills applying to a nursing position:

ADDT Homeless Shelter and Clinic, Feb. 2017 - Jan. 2019

Soup Kitchen Volunteer

• Helped serve thousands of patients, with dietary restrictions, food suited for their needs and recommended by their doctor
• Participated in biweekly outreach to promote free medical services
• Ideated the transition from soup kitchen to restaurant to improve patient mood when dining on site

As you can see, this applicant is highlighting their customer service, health, initiative, and leadership knowledge and skills in an exciting way. Include about three to four experiences that yield results (e.g., an idea coming into fruition or how many times you helped a company succeed), and you’ll have a strong work experience section on your resume!

Additional sections

If you haven’t filled up your one-page resume by now, consider adding these sections:

• Skills : Does the job ask for your expertise in Adobe Creative Suite or Microsoft Office? Articulate your skills with these programs by listing them in a skills section. You can also include soft skills such as communication, time management, problem-solving, etc. You can also include any additional languages you speak.
• References : Do you have a great recommendation from your internship supervisor? List them as a reference! Though, don’t feel compelled to write a reference section if you’re straight out of school.

Once you’ve got your resume set, make sure to upload it through Handshake. If your college has a career services center, you may have access to feedback for your resumes and cover letters, too!

Find the right jobs for you. Get hired.

Related stories, most recent stories.

• Career Blog

20 College Grad Resume Examples and Advice for 2024

As a recent college graduate, crafting an effective resume becomes a crucial step in finding your first professional job. Your resume serves as your initial introduction to potential employers and can make or break your chances of standing out in a competitive job market.

Importance of an Effective Resume for College Graduates

An effective resume is essential because it showcases your skills, education, and experience in a concise and well-organized manner. It acts as a marketing tool for your personal brand and helps you stand out among other candidates. With an effective resume, you can present yourself as a compelling candidate and demonstrate to potential employers that you are a perfect fit for their organization.

Moreover, an effective resume can help you overcome any gaps in your experience or a lack of industry-specific skills. It shows that you have invested time and effort in customizing your application and that you are serious about pursuing a career in your desired field.

A poor-quality resume, on the other hand, can pose a significant threat to your chances of being invited for an interview. It can make you appear unprofessional, disorganized, and unprepared. As a college graduate with little work experience, you need a strong resume to make up for your lack of experience and highlight your abilities as a potential employee.

This article serves as a comprehensive guide to creating an effective resume as a college graduate. By following the advice and examples provided, you can increase your chances of landing an interview and ultimately securing your dream job.

The Basics of a Good College Grad Resume

As a college graduate, there are certain components that you should include in your resume to ensure that it appeals to prospective employers. In this section, we will explore what employers are looking for in a resume and the essential components of a college grad resume.

What Employers Are Looking For in a Resume

Employers receive hundreds of applications and resumes for each job opening, and it’s important to make sure that your resume stands out. Here are some of the things that employers are looking for in a college grad’s resume:

Relevant Work Experience:  Employers want to see that a candidate has some relevant work experience, even if it’s just an internship or a part-time job. This demonstrates to the employer that you have some practical skills that are transferable to the workplace.

Academic Achievements:  Employers want to see that you excelled academically during your time in college. This could include your GPA, academic honors or awards, or relevant coursework.

Leadership Experience:  Employers value candidates who can demonstrate leadership skills. This could include experience as a team captain, club president, or volunteer coordinator.

Soft Skills:  Soft skills are traits that are difficult to measure but are highly valued in the workplace. Examples include communication skills, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving.

Essential Components of a College Grad Resume

Now that you know what employers are looking for in a resume, let’s dive into the essential components of a college grad resume:

Header:  The header of your resume should include your name, contact information, and a professional email address.

Objective or Summary:  A brief objective or summary statement should be included at the top of your resume to give the employer an idea of your career goals and what you can bring to the table.

Education:  List your education in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent degree. Include the name of the institution, degree earned, major, and graduation date.

Relevant Work Experience:  List your work experience in reverse chronological order as well. Include the job title, company name, dates of employment, and a brief description of your duties and accomplishments.

Leadership Experience:  If you have any leadership experience, such as serving as a club president, include it in a separate section on your resume.

Skills:  Include a section that highlights your relevant skills. This could include software programs you’re proficient in, foreign languages you speak, or any other professional skills that are relevant to the job you’re applying for.

References:  Finally, provide at least two professional references who can vouch for your skills and experience.

By including these essential components in your resume and highlighting your relevant skills and achievements, you can help ensure that your resume stands out to prospective employers.

20 College Grad Resume Examples and Advice

As a college graduate, crafting the perfect resume can be a daunting task. With so many different fields of study and industries to choose from, it can be challenging to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together a list of 20 college grad resume examples across various fields, as well as some advice on how to make your resume stand out.

Example 1: Business Administration Graduate

A Business Administration graduate should focus on their leadership abilities, communication skills, and problem-solving experience. Highlight your accomplishments in previous internships, such as increasing sales or streamlining processes. Also, mention any business-related coursework, such as finance or marketing.

Example 2: Communications Graduate

A Communications graduate should highlight their experience in public speaking, writing, and social media management. Showcase work from previous internships, highlighting any writing or video projects. If you speak another language, be sure to mention it as it could be a valuable asset in the communications world.

Example 3: Computer Science Graduate

A Computer Science graduate should focus on their coding abilities and experience with different programming languages. Detail any coding projects or hackathons you’ve participated in. Also, list any technical skills or certifications that you have earned.

Example 4: Education Graduate

An Education graduate should highlight their coursework in teaching methods and their experience working with students. Detail previous teaching or tutoring experience and highlight any student outcomes, such as improved test scores. Also, be sure to mention any relevant certifications or licenses.

Example 5: Engineering Graduate

An Engineering graduate should showcase their technical skills and problem-solving abilities. Highlight any coursework or projects related to your field of study. Also, detail any internships or co-op experiences that you’ve had, including any unique projects or solutions you developed.

Example 6: Fine Arts Graduate

A Fine Arts graduate should focus on their creativity and artistic abilities. Highlight any exhibitions, performances, or publications you’ve contributed to. Also, detail coursework related to your artistic medium, such as painting or sculpture.

Example 7: Healthcare Graduate

A Healthcare graduate should highlight their clinical experience and knowledge of medical terminology. Detail any internships or shadowing experiences that you’ve had, highlighting any particular skills or procedures that you observed or assisted with.

Example 8: Human Resources Graduate

A Human Resources graduate should focus on their communication and organizational skills. Detail any coursework related to employment law or recruitment strategies. Also, showcase any previous internships or co-op experiences, highlighting any projects that you led or contributed to.

Example 9: Journalism Graduate

A Journalism graduate should highlight their writing and storytelling abilities. Showcase any previous writing experience, such as internships or freelance work. Also, detail any relevant coursework in journalism, including topics like media ethics and news reporting.

Example 10: Marketing Graduate

A Marketing graduate should focus on their marketing and sales abilities.

Tips and Tricks for Crafting Your College Grad Resume

Crafting a winning resume can be a daunting task, especially when you’re fresh out of college and have little professional experience. However, with a little effort, you can create a polished and effective document that showcases your skills and strengths to potential employers. In this section, we’ll explore some tips and tricks for creating a college grad resume that stands out from the rest.

How to Identify Your Key Skills and Strengths

Before you start writing your resume, it’s crucial to identify your key skills and strengths. These are the qualities and abilities that make you a unique and valuable candidate for a particular job. Here are some tips on how to identify your key skills and strengths:

Look at your academic record and extracurricular activities: What classes did you excel in? What clubs or organizations were you involved in? What leadership roles did you hold? These can all indicate skills and strengths that you possess.

Consider your part-time jobs, internships, and volunteer work: What tasks did you perform in these roles? What skills did you develop? What accomplishments did you achieve?

Think about your personal qualities: What are your strengths as a person? Are you a good communicator? A problem-solver? An organized and detail-oriented person?

Once you’ve identified your key skills and strengths, make sure to highlight them in your resume. Use keywords and phrases that reflect these qualities throughout your document.

Quantifying Your Accomplishments on Your Resume

One of the most effective ways to make your resume stand out is to quantify your accomplishments. This means using numbers and figures to demonstrate the impact and results of your work. Here are some examples of how to quantify your accomplishments:

Instead of saying “managed a team of interns,” say “oversaw a team of five interns, resulting in a 30% increase in productivity.”

Instead of saying “organized events,” say “planned and executed 10 successful events, attracting over 1,000 attendees and raising $50,000 for charity.”

Instead of saying “improved customer satisfaction,” say “implemented new customer service program, resulting in a 20% increase in customer satisfaction ratings.”

By quantifying your accomplishments, you show potential employers that you’re results-oriented and have a track record of success.

Using Action Words and Active Language

Finally, using action words and active language can make your resume more engaging and dynamic. This means avoiding passive phrases and instead using strong verbs and descriptive language to describe your experiences and accomplishments. Here are some examples of action words to use on your resume:

• Accomplished
• Implemented
• Coordinated

Additionally, using active language can make your resume more readable and engaging. This means using strong sentences that start with an action verb and focus on your accomplishments, rather than just your job duties.

Avoiding Common Resume Mistakes

Creating the perfect resume is a daunting task, but it can lead to tremendous results if executed flawlessly. Your resume is the first point of contact with a potential employer, and you need to make sure it is error-free and tailored to the employer’s needs.

Here are some common resume errors to avoid:

Grammatical and spelling errors – Your resume should have perfect grammar and be free of spelling errors. These errors can significantly impact your chances of getting the job.

Lack of clarity – Your resume should be clear and straightforward. Avoid using jargon, acronyms, or overly complex vocabulary.

Unprofessional email address – Your email address should be professional and not something like “ [email protected] .”

Not tailoring the resume – One of the most significant mistakes you can make is not customizing your resume to the job you’re applying for.

Ensuring Your Resume is Tailored to the Employer:

Read the job description – Make sure you read the job description and identify the keywords and requirements for the role.

Highlight relevant experience – Use your past experience to demonstrate how you possess the necessary skills and qualifications for the job.

Showcase your achievements – Highlight your achievements to demonstrate your capabilities and value.

Use the employer’s language – Incorporate the employer’s language, including keywords and phrases from the job posting, to show that you understand the job requirements.

Be concise – Make every word count by being concise, concluding relevant information only.

Avoiding common resume mistakes and tailoring your resume to the employer’s needs can be the difference between getting the job or not. Make sure you set yourself up for success and create a resume that showcases your skills, experience, and achievements.

Customizing Your College Grad Resume

One of the most important things you can do as a college grad looking for a job is to tailor your resume to each position you apply for. This means that you should not just send out the same generic resume to every employer, but rather take the time to analyze the job description and requirements and adjust your resume accordingly.

When customizing your resume, be sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills. This can include coursework, internships, volunteer work, extracurricular activities, and any other activities that showcase your abilities.

For example, if you are applying for a marketing position, make sure to highlight your experience in social media marketing, market research, and advertising. If you are applying for a data analyst role, make sure to emphasize your skills in data analysis, statistics, and programming languages.

In addition, consider including any relevant certifications, awards, or honors you have received. These can help demonstrate your expertise in a particular area and set you apart from other candidates.

When describing your experience, be sure to emphasize measurable outcomes and achievements. For example, instead of simply stating that you worked on a project, explain how your contributions led to a successful outcome, such as increased sales or improved efficiency.

By customizing your resume for each position you apply for, you can demonstrate your relevance and fit for the job and increase your chances of landing an interview. Take the time to thoroughly analyze the job description and requirements, and highlight the skills and experiences that showcase your abilities and make you a strong candidate.

Writing a Convincing Cover Letter

As a college graduate, you may think that your resume is the most important aspect of your job application. However, a well-crafted cover letter can be just as important in landing you an interview. In fact, some hiring managers consider the cover letter to be the most important part of your application.

A cover letter can demonstrate your communication skills, showcase your personality and highlight your qualifications in a way that a resume cannot. It allows you to demonstrate your interest in the position and the company in a way that is personal and engaging. A great cover letter can set you apart from other applicants and leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager.

Here are some tips on what to include in your cover letter:

Why You’re a Good Fit

Start by introducing yourself and stating why you are interested in the position. Then, explain why you believe you would be a good fit for the role. Provide specific examples of your qualifications and experiences that match the job description. Use this section to demonstrate your understanding of the job and the company.

Your Skills and Experiences

Highlight your skills and experiences that make you a strong candidate for the job. Use specific examples to showcase how you have used these skills in the past and how they relate to the job you are applying for. This section should demonstrate your achievements and success in your previous roles.

Your Personality and Passion

Showcase your personality and passion for the job and the company. Use your cover letter to explain why you are interested in the company and what excites you about the job. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that demonstrate your passion for the work.

Wrap up your cover letter by summarizing why you would be a good fit for the position and the company. Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity. End by inviting them to contact you for further discussion.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise, clear and tailored to the job and the company. A well-crafted cover letter can demonstrate your communication skills and showcase your personality, leaving a lasting impression on the hiring manager.

Maximizing Your Online Presence

In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial, especially for college graduates seeking their first job. Social media can be a powerful tool to showcase your skills, achievements, and personality to potential employers. It is vital to manage your social media profiles carefully and present them in a positive light.

Managing your Social Media Profiles

Firstly, it’s essential to keep your social media profiles professional and tidy. Employers often look at candidates’ profiles to gain insight into their personalities and conduct. Ensure that your profiles are up-to-date and free from any inappropriate content. This includes not only your posts but also the images you share and the pages you follow.

Secondly, it is advisable to use privacy settings to control access to your profile. Limiting access to personal information and posts is a great way to protect your privacy and stay safe on social media.

Finally, it is important to post regularly and engage with your audience. By sharing updates and interacting with others on social media, you can build a strong network and increase your visibility. You never know; your next employer or colleague might be someone you connect with on social media.

Maximizing LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a professional networking platform that has become an essential tool for job seekers. To maximize LinkedIn, here are some tips to consider:

1. Optimize your profile

Make sure that your LinkedIn profile is complete, up-to-date, and reflects your personal brand. Use a professional profile picture and headline that showcases your skills and experience. You can also add a summary of your achievements, skills, and interests.

2. Build your network

Connect with professionals in your industry or field, as well as recruiters and hiring managers. You can also join groups and follow companies that interest you. Building your network is an excellent way to increase your visibility and get noticed by potential employers.

3. Look for job opportunities

LinkedIn is a great platform to search for job openings and internships in your industry. You can use filters such as location, job function, and industry to narrow down your search. You can also set up job alerts to get notified when a job posting matches your criteria.

4. Engage with content

Engaging with content on LinkedIn is an excellent way to demonstrate your knowledge and engage with your network. You can share useful articles and insights or write your own content. You can also comment on posts and start conversations with your connections.

Social media can be a powerful tool for college graduates looking to maximize their online presence. By managing your social media profiles and optimizing LinkedIn, you can increase your visibility, build your network, and find your dream job.

Preparing for Your Job Interview

As a college graduate, preparing for a job interview is crucial to ensure you make a good impression and increase your chances of getting hired. In this section, we will discuss the importance of preparing for your interview, typical interview questions for college graduates, and strategies and tips for interview success.

The Importance of Preparing for Your Interview

Preparing for an interview is important for several reasons. Firstly, it helps you feel more confident and prepared. By doing your research on the company and the role you are interviewing for, you’ll be able to answer the interviewer’s questions more effectively and ask informed questions of your own.

Secondly, preparing for your interview shows your potential employer that you are serious about the role and the company. It demonstrates that you are willing to put in the time and effort to prepare and that you are genuinely interested in the position.

Finally, being prepared can help reduce anxiety and nervousness. Knowing that you have done everything you can to prepare for the interview can give you peace of mind and help you perform at your best.

Typical Interview Questions for College Graduates

While interview questions can vary depending on the company and the role, there are some common questions that college graduates should be prepared to answer. These may include:

• Tell me about yourself
• Why are you interested in this role?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• Can you give an example of a time when you had to overcome a challenge?
• What are your long-term career goals?
• Can you tell me about a time when you worked in a team?

It’s important to prepare answers to these questions ahead of time, while also being ready to adapt your responses as needed based on the conversation.

Strategies and Tips for Interview Success

There are several strategies and tips that can help you succeed in a job interview:

Research the company and the role: Before the interview, research the company and the role you are applying for. This will help you understand what the company does, their values, and what they are looking for in a candidate.

Practice your answers: Practice answering common interview questions ahead of time. This will help you feel more confident and prepared during the interview.

Dress appropriately: Dress professionally for the interview. This shows that you are taking the opportunity seriously, and helps create a good impression.

Arrive early: Arrive early to the interview to give yourself time to check in, relax, and mentally prepare.

Stay engaged: During the interview, make sure to actively listen to the interviewer, maintain eye contact, and ask for clarification if needed.

By following these strategies and tips, you can increase your chances of interview success and landing your dream job.

Preparing for your job interview is essential as a college graduate. It can help you feel more confident, make a good impression, and ultimately increase your chances of getting hired.

Following Up After the Interview

As a college graduate, the interview process can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. You’ve spent countless hours perfecting your resume, submitting job applications, and finally landed an interview. After the interview, it’s important to follow up with the employer to demonstrate your interest and commitment to the company.

The Importance of Following Up

Following up after an interview is crucial because it sets you apart from other candidates. It shows that you are proactive, thoughtful, and polite. Hiring managers often receive hundreds of resumes and interview several candidates, so a follow-up can help them remember who you are and why you’re interested in the position.

Moreover, following up helps to maintain and strengthen your relationship with the employer. It can demonstrate that you are a dependable and responsible individual, who takes initiative and is interested in building strong relationships. This can go a long way in helping you get your foot in the door to discuss future opportunities at the company.

Communicating with Employers after the Interview

When following up with an employer, it’s important to keep in mind that professionalism is key. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Send a thank-you email within 24 hours:  This is a quick and easy way to show your appreciation for the interviewer’s time and to keep your candidacy top of mind. Make sure to personalize the message and reiterate your interest in the position.

Follow up after a week:  If you haven’t heard back from the employer within a week, it’s appropriate to send a follow-up email or make a phone call. This demonstrates your interest in the position and allows you to inquire about the status of your candidacy.

Be courteous and respectful:  Remember, the interview process can be stressful and demanding for employers. Be understanding if they’re unable to respond immediately or if the hiring process takes longer than anticipated. Stay positive and professional throughout the entire process.

Following up after an interview is an important step in the job search process. It shows your interest and commitment to the position and the company, and helps you stand out from other candidates. By following these simple guidelines, you can communicate effectively and professionally with potential employers, and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

Related Articles

• Restaurant Resume: A Complete Writing Guide & Examples
• Clinic Nurse Job Description & Duties for 2023
• Top 10 Interview Questions for Managers in 2023
• MBA Application Resume: Examples and Pro Tips for Writing
• Finance Cover Letter: 10 Examples & Writing Tips for 2023

Rate this article

0 / 5. Reviews: 0

More from ResumeHead

The opinions expressed are solely those of Find My Profession. Click to see our Advertising Disclosure.

Recent Grads: How to Write a Great Resume [+ Samples]

18 tips for a great recent graduate resume. New grads can easily create a resume with these dos and don'ts!

Writing your first resume for a “real” job is exciting!

There are some common mistakes you will want to avoid on your recent graduate resume.

There are also things that make your resume different than resumes for seasoned professionals.

We will show you how to easily write a resume for new college graduate jobs.

1. Use a Professional Email Address

Many recent grads often have funny or cute (or worse!) email addresses that they created years ago.

It can be a fatal mistake to use that address on your recent college graduate resume.

Your email address is one of the few details at the very top of your resume and hotchick2000 is not the first impression you want to make!

Stay away from services that can be viewed as outdated (ie: aol or yahoo).

Leave the year of your birth or graduation year off your address as well.

Create a separate professional email address for your job search correspondence. 

Having a dedicated email account also keeps all of your job-related emails together and separate from your personal inbox. 

2. Use a Customized LinkedIn URL

Just like your email address, your LinkedIn profile URL is also important.

If your LinkedIn URL is brian-smith-573ac364, it looks sloppy and shows a lack of attention to detail.

It takes 2 minutes to customize your LinkedIn URL.

You will find the option to edit your URL in the top right corner of your LinkedIn profile. 

If all variations of your first and last name are already taken, try adding your middle initial, middle name, and/or a single number at the end.

3. Use a Professional Summary

Showing what you are capable of doing is more effective than telling what you want to accomplish in your new job (objective statement).

Summarize your best assets related to the job you are applying for.

Instead of writing a resume objective, write a professional summary . 

Don’t use objective-type sentences or “I” sentences like this one:

I have hands-on experience through various projects and college coursework.

Instead, use professional statements like this one:

Equipped with a foundation of engineering and operational skill sets, as well as proficiency in improving processes, protocols, project execution, and efficiency.

(Related: Resume Summary: How To Write [+Examples] )

4. Optimize Your Skills Section

The skills section on your resume is a crucial element, especially as a new grad without a lot of work experience. 

If you don’t have a good amount of work experience, the skills you have will matter to the hiring manager. 

You need to highlight your skills that are relevant to the job you’re applying for.  

Include your relevant skills using the keywords and requirements from the job description.

If the first requirement in the job posting you are applying for is:

Ability to manage projects from conception to final commissioning.

Then your skills section should include terms like project management, project planning, full project life cycle management, scheduling, budgeting, risk management, etc. depending on the job.

(Related: Most Important Skills For a Resume )

5. Include Relevant Technical Skills

Do not ignore the technical skills mentioned in the job description. 

Not mentioning a technical skill can mean getting eliminated by the Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). 

You can also list technical skills that are needed for the job but have not been mentioned in the job post.

However, be careful to stick to only relevant skills. The hiring manager won’t care about your Python skills if you’re applying for an accounting job.

If you are not confident enough in a skill mentioned in the job description, consider taking an online course to advance your knowledge of that skill. 

6. Know Your Strengths

Knowing what makes you great for your target position and playing that up is crucial in a competitive job market.

From the overall resume structure to the details included in all the sections, your key selling points should take center stage on your resume. 

For example, if you have prior experience closely matching the job you are applying for, put your professional experience right after the summary section.

On the other hand, if your work experiences are irrelevant, you’ll want to draw more attention to your transferable skills and education.

Organize the individual sections keeping this strategic approach or prioritization in mind.

(Related: The 5 Best Resume Formats [Tips & Samples] )

7. Optimize Your Education Section

Be thorough in the education section of your resume for recent college graduate jobs.

If you lack professional experience, you can beef up this section of your resume to show relevant school experience.

Add coursework that is directly related to the job you are applying for.

You can also mention your relevant academic achievements, awards, honors, scholarships, projects, and extra-curriculars.

8. Explain Your Experience

As a new grad, you may be apprehensive about including your part-time gigs, summer positions, freelance jobs, volunteering, and internships.

You shouldn’t be!

If you don’t have enough professional working experience, include your non-traditional working experience just like any other experienced professional would do.

But be mindful of relevance. If a summer gig was 2 months long and doesn’t add value, you might not include it.

Include your experience that is the most relevant to the job.

Explain your experience and on-the-job accomplishments in such a way that it is precise, professional, and closely related to your target position.

Instead of calling the section Professional Experience , you could call it Relevant Experience, or [Industry Name] Experience or Background .

Avoid long and boring paragraphs that just list your responsibilities like a job description.

Use bullet points to highlight your accomplishments. Quantify your achievements whenever you can.

9. Be ATS-Friendly

Companies are increasingly using Applicant Tracking System (ATS) software. 

The influx of online resumes for job postings has created a need for a system to organize it all for employers.

The 2 things you need to know about ATS is that your resume needs to include keywords and be formatted correctly.

ATS collect data from applicants and screen for keywords related to the job posting.

So, using appropriate keywords on your resume can determine your fate.

ATS-optimization means using keywords from the job description in your professional summary, skills, education, and professional experience sections.

The other side of ATS is that your resume needs to be read easily by the ATS so your information is sorted correctly.

Avoid tables, charts, graphics, and header and footer details.

(Related: How to Make a Resume That Gets Past the Robot [ATS Resume] )

10. Use a Professional Font

Everything about your resume should be professional, including the font choice and the font size. 

Avoid fancy fonts like Comic Sans. Avoid overused fonts like Ariel and Times New Roman as well.

The best fonts for recent college grad resumes are Cambria, Georgia, Calibri, and similar fonts.  

(Related: Best Resume Fonts [+ Size, Color, Fonts to Avoid] )

11. Customize Your Resume for Each Job

This is a mistake that even seasoned professionals often make – submitting the same generic resume for all the positions they apply for.

Why? Simply because it takes extra time and planning to do.

A targeted resume significantly increases your chances of getting an interview.

To be prepared, keep a master resume on hand for your targeted industry.

Then, when you apply for a new job, customize and tailor a new version of your resume to best match the target position and job description.

Update things like your resume title, your skills, and accomplishments according to the job posting.

(Related:  How To Write A Targeted Resume [+ Examples] )

12. Don’t Include Personal Information

On a resume, there’s no place for your personal information.

Do not include anything relating to your personal life, such as a photo, hobbies, marital status, religion, age, sex, nationality, and other details. 

Personal information has nothing to do with your ability to do the job.

However, in certain non-US countries, you may be required to use a curriculum vitae (CV) that includes personal information.

13. Don’t Include Your Full Address

A resume is no place for redundant and unnecessary details. 

Your full street address is a detail that doesn’t need to be included on your resume anymore. No matter how many times your parents advise you to!

No one will be contacting you by snail mail.

Just list your city and state.

In some rare cases, the job posting may specifically request a full address. Of course, you’ll want to follow directions and include your full street address then.

14. Don’t Forget to Proofread Your Resume

We know you won’t make the rookie mistake of sending out your resume without a grammar check and thorough proofreading.

A simple typo can cause severe harm to your reputation .

Even worse is if you have included Attention to Detail as a soft skill on your resume!

It’s often difficult for a writer to find mistakes in their own writing. It’s best if you can have a friend or family member proofread your document.

15. Don’t Always Include Your GPA

Another misconception often seen among college grads is that including their GPA on their recent college graduate resume is mandatory.

Including your GPA is usually not mandatory.

If your GPA is not competitive enough, putting it on your resume can hurt your chances of getting an interview.

That’s why you should only include your GPA when it’s 3.0 or above and likely to increase your chances of getting an interview.

You can delete your GPA from your resume entirely after it’s been 2 years since your graduation.

16. Don’t Include Your College Start Date

This is a pretty common mistake that we see on recent graduate resumes in their education section. 

You don’t need to mention when you started college.

Just include the month and year you graduated on your resume. Just the year works too.

You can also take the graduation date completely off if it’s been more than 2 years since you graduated.

On the other hand, if you are still in school, you can use any of these phrases:

• In progress
• To be completed + date
• Anticipated graduation date: + date

The actual text on your resume will be something similar to this:

Bachelor of Science, Chemical Engineering, Co-Operative Program, Honors Student

UNIVERSITY OF COLLEGE, New York, NY (To be completed December 2024)

17. Don’t Mention High School

Some of us want to forget high school sooner than others! 

Regardless, your high school alma mater has no place on your recent college grad resume.

As you have already completed your college graduation, including high school information on your resume is not necessary.

It will only take up precious resume real estate without adding any value for the hiring manager.

Use that space for more useful information that’s directly related to the job description.

18. Don’t Include References

As a college graduate, a one-page resume would be most suitable for you. 

Adding references to a recent college graduate resume is a waste of space and an out-dated practice. 

You should also avoid the mistake of using the phrase, “References available upon request.”

Hiring managers already know that you will provide references if asked.

(Related:  How to List References on a Resume [And If You Should] )

Key Takeaways

Getting your resume prepared for your first job as a recent graduate can be exhilarating. 

In all the excitement, avoiding mistakes and getting everything right can be a challenge, however. 

Here are a few things to always keep in mind while writing your recent college graduate resume:

• Be precise and specific.
• Use a professional email address and LinkedIn URL. 
• Avoid unnecessary details like personal information.
• Use a professional summary instead of objective statements. 
• Prioritize your skills, experience, and accomplishments based on your strengths. 
• Keep everything in close relation to the target position.
• Customize your resume for each job you apply for. 

If you need professional help writing your new graduate resume, we would love to help you! Just click on Resume Writing above to find more information.

We also recommend ResumeZest . They have a team of professional resume writers experienced in writing resumes for college graduates at an affordable price.

Recommended Career Advice For You

The Writing Guru Review [Cost + Customer Reviews]

25+ Best Resume Header Examples (& Tips)

Best Construction Staffing & Recruiting Agencies in America 2024

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]

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

• Pricing Job Posting Plans Talent Search Plans Resume Builder Plans
• Build your Network My Network Access your personal network connections and manage your contacts. Cake Meet Expand your professional network by meeting and connecting with other users. Community Engage with other users through discussions, forums, and networking events.

College Graduate Resume Made Easy with Examples and Tips

In this article, you will learn about:

• What Is the Best Resume Format for College Graduates
• What to Include in a College Graduate Resume 

5 Tips to Write a Good College Graduate Resume

• Successful College Graduate Resume Template

College Graduate Resume Sample

For a recent college graduate, resumes are extremely important. Upon finishing your degree, you’ve already possessed some great advantages that would boost your competitiveness, such as:

• In-depth knowledge on a subject matter
• High marketability
• Better access to job opportunities

Of course, the main challenge for a fresh college graduate is often the lack of relevant job experience within the field. But, a well-written resume for new college graduates can effectively solve this problem and distinguish you from other fresh candidates.

In this article, we will be looking at how to craft a killer college graduate resume.

What Is the Best Resume Format for College Graduates?

3 resume formats for college graduates.

1. Chronological resume format

This resume format showcases your previous work experience in reverse chronological order, starting from the latest jobs on the top to the older ones at the bottom. 

• Easy to understand.
• Very visible and searchable in ATS (Applicant Tracking System).
• Suitable for any career.
• It doesn’t hide possible gap years between different positions.
• It is not a suitable resume format  for recent college graduates with no experience.

2. Functional resume format

The functional resume format stresses your skills instead of your experience.

• It hides possible gap years.
• It highlights your specialization.
• Your relevant experience can be overlooked.
• Less accessible in ATS.

3. Combination resume format

As the name suggests, the combination resume format presents a combination of your skills and your previous roles.

• It highlights strong skills and relevant experience.
• It is ideal for those who are changing their career paths.
• Lengthy and sometimes redundant.
• Not easily read in ATS.

As mentioned before, the chronological resume format is not the most suitable format for fresh college graduate resumes despite being regarded as one of the most practical ones. Instead, we recommend opting for the functional resume format for college graduates simply because of its utility and how it stresses your skills.

Best format for a college graduate resume 

There are two main formats for college graduates to send out their resumes: PDF and Word.

Unless the job application specifies otherwise, you should always have your college graduate resume template in PDF format.

• It's the most efficient method for maintaining your well-designed layout.
• The PDF format allows the recruiter to view your resume on various devices.
• Hard for ATS to read PDF files.

Word format is rarely required Hence it’s not recommended that a college graduate send out the resume in this format unless it’s specified.

• It’s easier for a recent college graduate to navigate and edit the resume with Word.
• It appears less professional.
• The layout can be messed up.

How to prepare a fresh college graduate resume

✅ Advice 1: Use a skill-based resume format.

The skill-based resume format (the functional resume format) is by far the most fitting resume format for new college graduates. 

✅ Advice 2: Write a career objective for your college graduate resume.

A career objective statement summarizes your prospects for the position and what you would like to achieve in your career. The statement should not exceed 2 sentences.

✅ Advice 3:  Highlight your educational qualifications on your college graduate resume.

Education and qualifications on the resume are the best shots for you if you are a fresh college graduate with little experience. Make sure to highlight them.

What to Include in a College Graduate Resume

With all the basics in mind, we are going to move on to the 8 key sections in a college graduate resume.

1. Resume Header (Personal Information)

A resume header contains all the important personal information, such as your name, your title, your location, your social media, and last but not least, your contact information. 

Example of a resume header & profile:

Jonathan Lee

[email protected] +41 414797121 linkedin.com/in/jonathan.lee

2. Resume Title

A resume title or a resume headline sums you up in a couple of sentences as a recent college graduate.. It includes who you are and what you have achieved. An eye-catching resume headline for recent college graduates should be similar to the example below:

Example of resume title for a collage graduate: 

Recent geology graduate with cartography experience and great communication skills.

3. Resume Summary for College Graduates

A resume summary highlights your background, experience, and qualifications. It is more suitable for both freshers with no work experience or experienced job seekers.

Example of a resume summary for a collage graduate: 

Geology graduate student with 1 year of experience in researching the volcanic activities around Kamchatka. Previously organized, assisted, and partook in 5 excursions to Russia to further our team’s study.

4. Resume Objective for College Graduates

A resume objective states your career prospects in 1 to 2 sentences. 

Example of a college graduate resume objective:

Goal-oriented geology graduate who is eager to find a position in at the National Institute of Geology to apply research and analytical skills and in-depth knowledge in geology.

5. Resume Skills for a College Graduate

There are 2 different types of skills to put on your college graduate resume, hard skills (technical skills) and soft skills (practical skills).

Both are of great importance since skills can make up for the lack of work experience on your college graduate resume.

Hard skills, or technical skills, refer to your ability to perform a task, and they can be easily measurable. Indicate your proficiency in them on your college graduate resume, so the recruiter can easily understand your value.

Hard skills for a college graduate resume:

• Foreign languages
• Holding a degree
• Knowing SEO
• Public speaking
• Research ability

Further reading:   Language Skills & Proficiency Levels on Resume/CV

Soft skills, sometimes called interpersonal skills or social skills, on the resume are essential for you as a college graduate. They show you are capable of working efficiently with others and adding value to the company. They are skills you can acquire from various activities and courses in college before you graduate.

Soft skills for a college graduate resume:

• Verbal communication
• Organization
• Flexibility
• Problem-solving
• Ability to take criticism
• Time management

6. Work Experience

Relevant experience from your previous positions should be placed in reverse chronological order. You should state the name of the organizations where you worked or volunteered, followed by the location and employment dates. 

Work experience example in a college graduate resume:

National Institute of Geology (NIG), New York Research Assistant, 2011 - 2015

• Conducted research in geology.
• Collected and analyzed data for 25+ case studies.

6. Education

This is the section for you to shine. Education in a recent college graduate’s resume is the key to winning hiring managers’ hearts.

Include these 5 crucial things on your college graduate resume:

• Your degree
• Your major(s) and/or minor(s)
• The year of graduation
• Name and location of the school
• Honors & awards you have received

You can also include your GPA if it is above 3.7 (out of 4.0) or any other relevant academic achievements that can demonstrate your soft skills.

Education example in a college graduate resume:

BSc in Earth Science University of Alberta (Alberta, Canada) 07. 2011 to 06. 2015

8. Additional Information 

Include any certifications, personal projects, special accolades, personal interests, or hobbies that can help your career.

Example of volunteer experience in a college graduate resume:

Volunteer interpreter at the Student Council at the University of Alberta, 2012-2014.

👍 1: Tailor the resume to the role.

Tailoring your college graduate resume means polishing your resume so that it fits the job description. Read the requirements carefully and understand what the HRs are looking for among the candidates.

👍 2: Make your college graduate resume concise.

A hiring manager will spend a mere 2 minutes on each resume. Therefore, it’s important that your college graduate resume is concise, easy to read, and packed with relevant information.

👍 3: Refer to college graduate resume templates and examples online.

Consult samples, examples, or even free templates of college graduate resumes online for reference.

👍 4: Keep the formatting consistent.

The college graduate resume that you’re writing should be formatted and styled professionally, with section headings, bulleted content, and dates and locations.

Each page should have regular margins at the top, bottom, and sides, as well as a legible typeface. Calibri, Cambria, and Helvetica are the best fonts to use, with a font size of no larger than 12 and no smaller than 10.

👍 5: Include hard skills and soft skills on your college graduate resume.

The above-mentioned hard skills and soft skills for college graduates complement each other very well. It is ideal to mix these two kinds of skills to leave a more professional impression.

Successful College Graduate Resume Templates

Should i use a template for my college graduate resume.

Yes. For freshers who aren’t familiar with how resumes are written, it’s important to use resume templates. It’s nonetheless important to modify the template a bit so that it’s distinguishable from others’ work.

✅ Pros: Easy to follow, easy to write.

❌ Cons : Lacking uniqueness.

What is the best resume template for a college graduate?

We’ve delved into different resume templates, or resume formats, earlier in this article. One question remains: which template is considered the best for a college graduate resume?

It really depends because, for a college graduate with little experience, the functional resume template is recommended. For a more experienced candidate, we recommend the chronological resume template. 

The chronological template is by far the most versatile one for any position because the way it lists your relevant roles and skills is better than other types of resume templates.

Where can I get a free resume template?

There is a wide range of free resume templates for college graduates at your disposal. Check out the following websites for more information:

• MS Word/Google Docs (There are a lot of pre-made templates available in MS Word and Google Docs.)

Cake provides the right college graduate resume templates & formats for you to showcase your skills and experiences. Sign up to create and download the best college graduate resume Now for free!

Create Resume

New York City, NY [email protected] +41 414797121 linkedin.com/in/jonathan.lee

Professional Summary

Goal-oriented graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in geology. Previously worked as an intern at the National Institute of Geology and as a museum docent at the geological museum in Alberta and applied analytic and research skills in 10 different projects. Demonstrated in-depth knowledge of the GIS system.

BA in Geology  University of Alberta (Alberta, Canada) 06. 2011 to 07. 2015

• Worked as a teaching assistant for 2 years (2013-2015) and tutored 20+ freshmen.
• Communication skills
• Good work ethics
• Excellent research skills
• Analytical skills
• Fluent in English, French, Russian, and Ukrainian
• CGG Digital

Geological Museum, Alberta, Canada  Museum Docent 2016 - 2017

• Assisted in the development of programs for students.
• Led groups of students on 10+ research projects.

National Institute of Geology, New York, US  Intern 2014 - 2015

• Analyzed and modeled cartography using GIS.
• Assessed and monitored geological activities according to their statistics.

--- Originally written by Yu-Jen Shih ---

More Career and Recruitment Resources

Explore a range of job search tools and resources to achieve your dream career goals. Join the fastest-growing talent platform in the APAC region and expand your professional network.

Resume Builder

More Articles you might be interested in

What to write in an email when sending a resume [+ examples & tips], a comprehensive cv format guideline for freshers [+examples], list of 50+ best extracurricular activities for resume (guide & examples), resume format guideline: 10+ resume formats and free templates to download, how to write an appointment letter: format, sample & template, job application letter: examples, what to include & writing tips, motivation letter examples, template & writing tips, writing a thank you letter for a job offer: template, samples, guide, and tips.

How to Write a Resume

Editor & Writer

www.bestcolleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Turn Your Dreams Into Reality

Take our quiz and we'll do the homework for you! Compare your school matches and apply to your top choice today.

• College students and recent grads must learn how to craft engaging resumes to land jobs.
• A strong college resume uses simple fonts, clear organization, and action verbs.
• Be sure to proofread your final resume and have somebody look it over for you.

Formatting and writing a professional resume is a challenge that even seasoned workers often struggle with. As a college student or recent graduate, you likely have limited work experience, making the resume-writing process all the more difficult.

But don't get discouraged — there are several steps you can take when putting together a college student resume or college graduate resume to help you stand out from other applicants.

Below, we've compiled a comprehensive list of tips and examples to teach students and recent college graduates how to write an effective resume.

Table of Contents

What sections should you include on a resume.

Your resume should include the following sections in a similar order as this:

• Name and Contact Information
• Work Experience

As a college student or recent graduate, you'll probably want to add additional sections to showcase your relevant achievements and skills. Here are some examples of optional sections you could include:

• Extracurricular/Volunteer Activities

Honors and Awards

• Certifications, Skills, and Training

Digital Proficiency

• Foreign-Language Proficiency

Hobbies and Interests

Tips for formatting a college student resume.

• Collapse All

Choose a Professional Font and Font Size

Selecting the right font and font size ensures your resume looks presentable and professional. Stick with simple fonts, such as Calibri, Cambria, Helvetica, or Georgia. For example, you could use Georgia for your name and section headings, and Calibri for the rest of your resume.

Many contend that 12 pt is the ideal font size for the resume body, though if you're having trouble fitting in some of the text, you may go down to 11 pt. What's important is that you don't make your font so small that it's difficult to read at a glance.

For headings and subtitles, increase the font size about 4-6 pts larger than your body text. For section titles, consider using bolding, underlining, or capitalization to provide even more visual emphasis.

Use Appropriate Margins

Setting your margins correctly is crucial to presenting an organized and readable resume to potential employers.

Microsoft Word's default page margins are 1 inch -- the standard margin size for resumes. If you need a little more room, however, you can move your margins within a range of 0.5-1 inch. For instance, you could drop your top and bottom margins to 0.5 inches and your left and right margins to 0.75 inches.

Left-Align Key Content

Making your college student resume easily accessible means aligning your content in an effective manner. In most cases, you'll left-align the bulk of your resume, including your contact information, as people's eyes naturally move from left to right when reading in English.

That said, not everything has to be left-aligned. You might prefer to align job titles, company names, and responsibilities to the left, and align secondary information, such as dates and locations, to the right. Stay consistent throughout your resume and left-align anything you want to stand out.

Strategically Apply Bold, Italics, and Caps

Use bold, italics, and caps to draw a hiring manager's attention to important information on your resume -- but don't go overboard. The key here is to choose what to emphasize wisely.

If you're a recent college graduate with some internship experience , you might decide to bold the names of the companies you interned at rather than your job titles. If, however, you believe your titles better convey your qualifications for the position, you could do the opposite.

You might also bold your college degree or your school's name depending on what you want to draw more attention to.

A good rule of thumb is to use bold to emphasize important titles and italics for secondary information relating to the bolded titles. Caps should generally only be used for your name and section headings.

How to Write a Resume Header

Create a professional email address.

If you're still using an old email address from high school, it's time to create a new professional account. Choose a popular email provider like Gmail or Outlook and keep your address simple by using your full name or a variation of your first and last name.

Update Your Contact Information

Your contact information must be up to date so that potential employers won't have any issue reaching you. Make sure to include your first and last name, phone number, and email address in the header of your resume, and double-check that these are correct.

If location is important or relevant to the company, you may also include your city and state in your header. You can usually skip putting down your full home address.

Insert Relevant URL Links

If you don't have a lot of work experience but do have a portfolio of relevant work you can show, you should insert links to your personal website and/or online portfolio in your resume header.

You might also consider including a link to your LinkedIn profile to help the hiring manager get a better sense of your professional presence. Steer clear of adding links to any other social media accounts unless the job specifically requires social media skills.

How to Write a Resume Body: 8 Essential Tips

1. tailor your resume to the job description.

Tweaking your resume so that it aligns with the position is vital. Start by carefully reading the job description to identify keywords and key phrases. Next, insert these terms throughout your resume wherever applicable. Most hiring managers will search for keywords related to critical skills , even if the resume is processed through an applicant tracking system.

If you're having trouble finding keywords, you can run the job description through a word cloud generator, which should help you identify prominent words and phrases. Once you've finished crafting your resume, run it through that same generator to see whether its keywords align with those in the job description.

2. Focus On Education

For a college student or recent grad, your academic history should come first in the body of your resume, since your educational background will be one of the most important factors for employers.

In each education entry, include your major and degree, the institution's name, your (prospective) graduation date, and any minors. You can also add relevant coursework, favorite fields of study, thesis/dissertation titles, honors and awards, or academic achievements (e.g., dean's list).

Bachelor of Arts, Digital Technology and Culture Washington State University | Pullman, WA Minor: English Rhetoric and Professional Writing

Relevant Coursework: Writing and Rhetorical Conventions, Technical and Professional Writing, Electronic Research and the Rhetoric of Information, Advanced Multimedia Authoring, Usability and Interface Design

3. Include Work Experience

While your previous work experience might not relate exactly to the jobs you're applying for, it's still important to show hiring managers that you are employable, can complete tasks effectively, and can develop new skills. Ideally, you'll discuss internships and jobs for which you can highlight transferable skills and experiences .

For each work entry, put down your job title, the company's name and location, the dates you worked, and 2-4 bullet points summarizing your responsibilities and achievements in that role. Start each bullet point with a strong action verb (see tip 7 below) instead of the first-person "I."

If you don't have any work experience, you'll need to include additional sections that illustrate your achievements and skills in a non-work-related setting.

Writing Consultant, WSU Writing Center Washington State University — Pullman, WA

• Created and maintained lists of media contacts.
• Researched opportunities across online media channels.
• Produced product pitches and press kits.
• Supported event organization.

4. Showcase Your Skills

Put down your strongest and most relevant skills that will help you perform well in the job you're applying for. Don't shy away from discussing soft skills — those personality traits and handy life skills , such as public speaking and time management, that many employers look for when hiring.

5. Consider Adding Additional Sections

Adding additional non-work-related sections after the skills section on your college resume can help you stand out from other applicants with similar educational backgrounds and skill sets.

Here are some examples of sections you could add to the end of your resume:

Extracurricular Activities

An activities section is ideal for students or recent grads who have limited to no prior work experience. Listing relevant activities gives you the chance to show where and how you developed certain skills outside your education. Just make sure your activities reflect the type of work you'll be doing in the position you're applying for.

You'll want to list any academic-related honors and awards you've received in your education section. If you've earned any honors outside your college experience that are relevant to the job, you can create a separate section that briefly explains the significance of each award.

Certifications and Training

If you've received any training and/or certifications that prove you have specific skills or knowledge relevant to the position, put these in a separate section.

Those applying for a job that requires experience with specific software, digital tools, or web languages should include a digital proficiency section at the end of their resume to prove they're technologically qualified. You could also include this section in place of a standard skills section if digital proficiencies are more relevant to the role.

If you have any space left at the end, consider throwing in some hobbies and interests. Companies are increasingly emphasizing work culture and prefer to hire candidates whose personalities fit well with their environment. Research the company and choose hobbies and interests that clearly echo the company culture and/or support the position you're applying for.

6. Quantify Wherever Possible

Numbers included in conjunction with job responsibilities can pique hiring managers' interest by providing a clearer idea of what it looks like when you apply your knowledge and skills. For example, you might put down that you increased sales 20% over a six-month period, or that you assisted around 50 customers each day at your retail job.

7. Stick With Action Verbs

Many resumes are littered with the same trite words, which is why you should make an effort to switch up common words and phrases with stronger action verbs. This is especially important when writing the first word for each bullet point in your work experience section, as you want to immediately catch the hiring manager's attention.

Use verbs such as "converted," "analyzed," and "composed" to portray your achievements in a more engaging manner. You might even consider using a thesaurus to help you find stronger synonyms for common words, or referring to this list of action verbs created by Harvard .

8. Use Reverse Chronological Order

Always use reverse chronological order, which means listing your entries starting with the most recent (and then working your way back in time from there). This organizational trick gives hiring managers a clearer sense of what you're currently doing, what you recently accomplished, and how these experiences might translate to the open position.

Last Steps for Finalizing Your College Resume

Take time to edit and proofread.

Carefully edit and proofread your resume before you submit it. A resume that's grammatically correct will make you look more professional and appealing than a resume filled with typos. While both Microsoft Word and Google Docs do a decent job of detecting technical errors, other tools, such as Grammarly , are better at catching minute grammar mistakes.

After you've cleaned up your resume, slowly read it over to look for any awkward phrases, inconsistencies, ambiguous descriptions, or poor word choice and tweak as needed.

Get Another Set of Eyes to Look It Over

The final step is to show your resume to someone who can provide you with constructive feedback – including key do's and don'ts . If you're still in college, you might turn to your university's career or writing center; otherwise, take your resume to a mentor , friend, or family member you trust.

You'll want them to check your grammar and analyze whether the resume sells you as the best person for the role. Ask the reviewer questions like "Does this resume portray me as the best candidate for this job?" and "Is this resume engaging?" If their answer to either question is no, go back and revise your resume.

Feature Image: PeopleImages / E+ / Getty Images

Explore More College Resources

Cover letter tips for college students and recent grads.

How to Write a Resume for College Applications

The Student’s Guide to Resumes and Cover Letters

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Compare Your School Options

View the most relevant schools for your interests and compare them by tuition, programs, acceptance rate, and other factors important to finding your college home.

How to Write a College Resume (+ Example Templates)

Written by Alexis Allison , College Essay Guy Team 

How do you sum up your life’s work on a single piece of paper?

First things first. Remember that you are not your college resume. You are a human being, not a human doing . If you don’t have a rockstar resume, that’s okay. Work with what you’ve got.

Now that we’ve got the touchy-feelies out of the way, let’s talk about how to write an amazing resume.

• How Important is the College Resume?
• How Do I Pick a College Resume Template?
• What Are The Most Important Parts of a College Resume Template?
• Contact Information
• Awards and Honors
• Finishing Touches
• What do I do With My College Resume?

How Important is the resume for college?

Well, it depends.

In general, most colleges have a dedicated space on their application system called the Activities List where you will be able to list out all of the things you’ve been involved in outside of school. That section is your BEST place to share those details. Don’t skip it.

However, some colleges offer the option of submitting a separate, more traditional style resume. (Think PDF-style resume that you upload.)

If you feel like you’ve totally communicated all of the important details in your Activities List, you may not need to submit a separate resume. In fact, for many colleges, you may not even have the opportunity to upload a traditional PDF resume.

But if given that option, should you do it?

Some colleges strongly recommend that you submit a resume along with your application (see UT Austin’s policies for certain programs .) While others forbid it (see UVA’s FAQ section. ) So be sure to check with individual colleges to see what they prefer.

However, keeping a professional resume on hand will serve you in a few  other ways. How?

Your resume:

Serves as a foundation for the Common App Activities List (or vice versa—see this post if you’ve already written your activities list).

Gives teachers and counselors a framework for their letters of recommendation.

Provides you with a list of ready-made talking points for an admissions interview.

May inspire your Common App essay.

Is a requirement for many scholarships or internship and employment opportunities (read: $$).

Finally, it’s like having your own business card. There’s a “professional cool” factor when you’ve got a slick resume to slap on someone’s desk.

Now, let’s make one.

For this post, we use examples from this resume template —but feel free to use any of the others linked below.

College Resume Templates:

College Resume Template #1: Microsoft Word or Google Docs

College Resume Template #2: Microsoft Word or Google Docs

College Resume Template #3: Microsoft Word or Google Docs

College Resume Template #4: Microsoft Word or Google Docs

College Resume Template #5: Microsoft Word or Google Docs

College Resume Template #6: Microsoft Word or Google Docs

Note: To use these example college resume templates yourself: Click on the link, go to "File" > "Make a copy..." > "Ok"

We also recommend checking out some of Canva’s ready-to-use, customizable resume templates . Choosing the right template is kind of like choosing the right outfit for an interview. You want it to look sharp and feel like you. Ultimately, though, the outfit (or template) doesn’t guarantee success—it’s how you rock what you’ve got that matters the most.

For whichever template you choose, make sure you do the following: Go to File > Make a copy , and copy the document to your Google Drive.

Read along and make it your own!

How do I Pick a College Resume Template?

You’ve heard it’s what’s on the inside that counts. Well, when it comes to college resume templates, looks matter too. Think of the resume like your first impression.

Here are some things to consider when it comes to format and design.

(Don’t) Give ‘em Helvetica. Choose a serif font. What’s a serif font? It’s a font with little feet at the bottom of each letter, like Times New Roman. The opposite of a serif font is a sans-serif font, like Helvetica—no feet, see? A serif font looks a little more traditional and professional on a resume.

Create a style for each level of information. Bold or capitalize headings. Use italics or underline if you’d like. Make use of bullet points. The key here is consistency. There’s not one right way—just choose a style and stick to it.

Commit to one page. Your concision will gain you brownie points from college admissions counselors who’ve read one too many applications.

Respect white space. Leave the document’s margins at 1 inch. Keep a space between each section. White space is both a useful design tool and gentle on the reader’s eyes.

Use this one. Ex: Times New Roman

Don’t use these. Ex: Helvetica

Here are 5 things you need for your college resume:

Relevant contact information

Detailed education history + test scores

Experiences (think “Activities List”!)

Awards/honors

Additional skills

I recommend sharing those details in this order, from top to bottom: contact information, education, experience and skills. If you’ve received honors and awards, you’ll have a separate section for those, too—but not all of us are that cool.

1. Contact Information

Include the following:

Your name. If you go by a nickname, use the name that’s attached to your college application—again, consistency is key.

A professional email that you check regularly. If you don’t have one, make one. If you’re still using ZendayaLover99 from middle school, it’s time to make a change—for everyone’s sake.

Your cell phone number.

It might look something like this:

[email protected]

123-456-7891

2. Education

This section requires a little more work. Include the following:

High School Name, City, STATE (start year – end year).   

GPA, weighted and unweighted.

Best test scores (ACT, SAT, SAT Subject Tests, AP).   

Relevant coursework. This section allows you to show off any extra classes you’ve taken in high school that reflect an interest in your major. So, if you want to be a doctor and you’ve taken Anatomy, add it!

Here’s a sample:

North Shore High School, Somewhere, TX (2015-2019)

GPA: Weighted: 3.6 / Unweighted: 3.2     

Relevant Coursework: Advanced Journalism, Desktop Publishing, Multimedia Graphics

3. Experience

Remember those kids who started random clubs like underwater basket-weaving just so they could write “Club President” on their resumes? Even if the club never met? Right.

This section is your chance to show that you’re different, because it’s more than just your responsibilities . It’s also about your accomplishments . What’s the difference?

Responsibilities vs. Accomplishments

Maybe the underwater basket-weaving club president was responsible for hosting meetings, planning events and organizing a fundraiser. But if she didn’t actually accomplish any of those things, she can’t add them to her resume. So  consider both your responsibilities and accomplishments, whether in a club, on a team, at a job, through a service project, etc. and then think of those accomplishments in terms of numbers.

Why numbers matter

Numbers give context and scale, plus they can help you stand out. Here’s what we mean:

Say you’re the editor of your school’s newspaper. Think back to how many papers you’ve published. How many articles? How many meetings have you led? How many students in each meeting? Say you babysit neighborhood kids. How many kids? How old are they? How often do you babysit? For how long each time? Maybe you work at a coffee shop. How many shifts per week? How many hours per shift? How many people do you serve on average each shift? Maybe you’re the team captain for your lacrosse team. How many warm-ups do you lead each week? For how many teammates? Do you lead team study sessions to help keep everyone’s grades up? How often?

Use strong active verbs

Once you’ve got the numbers, think of active verbs that describe exactly what you did. Here’s your chance to show that you’ve led, managed, organized, created, problem-solved, budgeted, maintained, coached, produced, written, presented, scheduled, built, developed, traveled, bought, bid, sold, delivered, etc.

Some tips for organizing the Experiences section of your college resume:

List experiences in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent activities and working backward.

For each activity, list the organization/business (even if it’s just your school), location, your position, and the dates of experience. The dates show much you’ve invested in that activity.

Avoid first person. Instead of saying “I managed,” just say “managed.”

Keep verb tenses consistent. So, if you’re still participating in the activity, use present-tense verbs. If you’re not, use past-tense verbs.

Want a huge list of verbs you can use to perfectly describe your experiences? Boom, here you go .

Need help thinking about your experiences?

Sit down with a parent, guardian, teacher who knows you well, or good friend, and ask them to help you remember what you’ve done.

Note that “experiences” can include lots of things. Don’t sell yourself short; even taking care of your younger siblings could count (if you’ve spent significant time and energy!).

Other ideas for your Experiences section:

Taking care of an elderly neighbor.

Volunteering at your house of worship.

Organizing weekly pick-up basketball in your neighborhood.

Working on your parent’s/friend’s car.

Organizing a fantasy football league in your class.

Serving on the board or council for an organization/group.

Taking summer art classes.

Selling homemade crafts on eBay.

Teaching your little sister to play the guitar.

Writing a regular blog about baking cakes.

Showing pigs through your local 4-H troupe.

Competing in local beauty pageants.

Click here for a list of other activities you may not have considered — but that count.

4. Awards and Honors

Think of this section as your trophy case on paper. Maybe your essay last year received second prize in the school-wide writing competition, or your science fair project or miniature pony got you best-in-show. Maybe you’re an Eagle Scout and you earned all 137 merit badges (yes, it’s possible!). Maybe your ball-handling skillz got you Most Improved Player on your JV basketball team.

Get this: you can also include if you were selected for something. (Examples: “1 of 200 students selected to serve as student/admin liaison” or “1 of 4 students chosen to represent our school at the national conference.”)

And, as with the Experiences section, take the time to give a brief, specific summary that captures just how awesome you are. Make sure to do this:

Include the name of the award and, if it’s obscure—or only someone from your town would recognize it— briefly describe what it is.

List the organizations involved, your position and the date you received the award (month and year works).

Be specific and use numbers. First place out of how many schools/teams/participants?

Avoid using “I.”

This final section should be short and sweet, like a toddler eating a cupcake.

What are skills? Anything you can do that could be relevant for college or your major. If you’re hoping to study theater and you can do the Daffy Duck voice or know how to swing dance, include a few gems! These often create great conversation starters for an interview, for example.

Tips for writing the Skills section of your college resume:

Avoid cliches like “punctual,” “passionate,” “organized,” “hard-working,” “team-player.” These days everyone and their mother is a punctual, passionate, organized, hard-working team-player.

Instead, focus especially on computer and language skills. Modern employers lurve ‘em

If you’re a Google Drive maven, add “Google Apps for Work”

If you can rock Word, Powerpoint and Excel, add “Microsoft Office Suite”

If you know how to hack or code, include it.

If you’ve taken Spanish I, include it. If you’re studying Arabic through Rosetta Stone, or High Valyrian through Duolingo, include it!

Some examples of other skills you might include:

Sports-related skills

Technical skills (welding, fixing cars, construction, computer repair, etc.)

Data analysis skills

Communication or teaching skills

Writing skills (Maybe you can create comics, or write screenplays or newspaper articles; maybe you know AP style or APA style like the back of your hand—include it!)

Speech and debate skills

Artistic skills (Which mediums can you work with? With which types of paint do you thrive?)

Interpretation/translation skills (This goes beyond just speaking a language!)

Musical proficiencies (Can you read music? Play five instruments? Sight-read?)

Keep going on the Skills section until it starts to feel ridiculous. Or until you’ve listed, say, 8-10 max, whichever comes first. How do you know if it’s starting to get ridiculous? Give it to at least one person (but no more than three) to edit before you send it out.

NEXT STEp: STAY AHEAD BY GETTING FAMILIAR WITH COLLEGE INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

Save your resume as a PDF with a professional, clear title. Include your name and the word “Resume.” Avoid titles like “asdjks.pdf” or “Resume.pdf,” which can come across as unprofessional or confusing. Remember, details matter.

Example: JohnSmith_NYU_Resume.pdf

Don’t write, “References available on request.” It sounds nice, but whoever reads your resume knows to contact you if he or she needs references, so it’s just wasted space.

Don’t include an “Objective.” They know your objective is to get into college, get a job/scholarship/internship. Anything more specific will come across in your essays and interviews.

You’ve got a slick digital resume. Now what?

If you’ve decided it makes sense to share your resume with colleges beyond what you’re sharing in your resume, you can typically do so within each school’s application system.

The Common App typically lets schools decide whether or not to offer an upload function within each colleges individual supplemental section.

If you can afford it and plan to do interviews in person, go to your local office supply store and buy some thick, white or off-white resume paper. Grab a professional-looking folder while you’re at it (no folders with kittens or polka-dots). Print 10 or so copies to keep on hand. When you ask teachers for letters of recommendation, give them a copy. When you walk into an interview , whether it’s for college or a job, bring a copy for every interviewer. Hand one to your significant other’s parents! J/K.

Finally, keep your resume updated. As you gain new experience, skills and awards, add them! If you stay on top of your resume, sending it out in will be a snap (after all, you’ll be in college—you’ve got better things to do).

More Resources

Already written your Activities List and want to turn it into a resume? Here’s how .

Want to see some other college resume templates? Feast your eyes .  

The Mignone Center for Career Success will be closed on Monday, September 2 in observance of Labor Day.

• Crimson Careers
• For Employers
• Harvard College
• Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts & Sciences
• Harvard Extension School
• Premed / Pre-Health
• Families & Supporters
• Faculty & Staff
• Prospective Students
• First Generation / Low Income
• International Students
• Students of Color
• Students with Disabilities
• Undocumented Students
• Varsity Athletes
• Explore Interests & Make Career Decisions
• Create a Resume/CV or Cover Letter
• Expand Your Network
• Engage with Employers
• Search for a Job
• Find an Internship
• January Experiences (College)
• Find & Apply for Summer Opportunities Funding
• Prepare for an Interview
• Negotiate an Offer
• Apply to Graduate or Professional School
• Access Resources
• AI for Professional Development and Exploration
• Arts & Entertainment
• Business & Entrepreneurship
• Climate, Sustainability, Environment, Energy
• Government, Int’l Relations, Education, Law, Nonprofits
• Life Sciences & Health
• Technology & Engineering
• Still Exploring
• Talk to an Advisor

Harvard College Resumes & Cover Letter Guide

• Share This: Share Harvard College Resumes & Cover Letter Guide on Facebook Share Harvard College Resumes & Cover Letter Guide on LinkedIn Share Harvard College Resumes & Cover Letter Guide on X

A resume is a concise, informative summary of your abilities, education, and experience.

7 Quick Techniques How to Write a College Graduate Resume in 2021

Crafting a resume is not an easy task, especially for a recent graduate. The situation in the market is already tough, let alone for people with relatively little experience. COVID-19 has brought its changes to the landscape of the labor market, so the only way to increase your job interview chances is to make sure your college graduate resume trumps others.

In this article, we are going to discuss the following.

• College graduate resume: what is it?
• Tips for writing a college graduate resume
• Great resume samples
• The importance of the resume to start your career

If you want to save your time while getting an impeccable college graduate resume, professionals from the resume writing service can help you in your job search.

What Is a College Graduate Resume?

A new college graduate resume is a document that helps applicants land an interview even if they lack professional experience and certain skills. Making a resume like this means highlighting education, custom projects, and other gains as resume sections to go through the ATS and impress hiring managers. 

A college graduate resume is different from a professional one, but it’s totally worthy of your attention. This document, if written correctly, is your ticket to an interview and possibly to an entry-level job.

Why Do You Need a Recent College Graduate Resume?

Hiring decisions for entry-level graduates are made based on their personal skills, educational gains, and project success rather than on professional fitness. A resume recent college graduate highlights what a candidate is eager to accomplish in the future rather than what they already have achieved.

If your first work resume fails to go through the applicant tracking process, you may lose your chance to try yourself in a few interesting and rewarding roles. To boost your chances of a successful career start, do spare some time to read our guides and write a killer resume.

College Graduate Resume Examples

The Internet offers a variety of resume samples to help a candidate in their resume writing. Yet, when it comes to resume college graduate, your job hunt is even tougher. You don’t have enough experience yet to impress potential employers. At the same time, you need to match your skills with the position to win a place. We offer a few best examples to your attention.

Sample Resume for Recent College Graduate With No Experience

To help you measure and word your soft skills and hard skills, we offer an example of a resume of recent college graduate with all key points addressed. This is an imaginary candidate who graduated in Chemical Engineering. You can also look for other recent college graduate resume examples on our website.

NAME SURNAME

Looking for a [position] to start a career applying my communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills, along with university knowledge, contributing to the employer’s goals and objectives.

Recent Chemical Engineer Graduate with several custom projects in catalysis who is ready to apply university knowledge and practical skills while joining forces with more experienced mentors to contribute to the company’s project goals.

New Hampshire University

Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering (2021)

• Dean’s List
• Graduated magna cum laude
• Futuro Organization member
• Relevant coursework: Kinetics, Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry, Catalysis

New Cristo’s Pizza

• Greeted customers, accompanied them to the tables, and assisted with menu selection, providing exceptional customer service.
• Handled cash and credit card transactions and ensured financial records were accurate.
• Responsibility
• Communication
• Analytical thinking
• Critical thinking

Certifications

Catalysis in Action (2020)

Languages Spoken

• Laboratory work

How to Write a Resume for Recent College Graduate

SkillHub has prepared a few tips on how to write a college graduate resume no experience highlighting skills, education, and potential professional accomplishments. Knowing how to present your strengths in the job application means a lot for your success.

Tip #1 : Before you start writing, check job descriptions for keywords to formulate a perfect objective or summary section that hides a lack of experience.

How to Choose a Structure for a Recent Graduate Resume

Many former students ask themselves a question about what to put on a resume out of college. The structure of a college graduate resume shouldn’t be very much different from the one used by professionals. It should include the following: 

• objective or summary; 
• education; 
• experience;
• key skills;
• other relevant sections.

However, if professionals ask how to fill out a resume, the answer, most likely, will be “experience.” For a recent graduate, the answer is “benefit.” You need to persuade a recruiter that you are a benefit for your potential employer.

Write a Perfect Objective for a Post College Resume

It’s essential to write a college graduate resume objective that suits you. It should be a paragraph that includes your industry aptitude and states your career goals. Job description analysis doesn’t matter much in this case.

INCORRECT ❌

Looking for a job to fill my pockets with some cash.

New Graduates Resume Summary

If you choose to write a professional summary, you must normally look for relevant information and experience. However, recent graduates may not have enough of it. In this case, this statement explains how they can use their skills to achieve employers’ goals.

Here are professional summary for recent graduate examples.

A recent graduate in search of a job who is passionate about cooking and dancing.

Education Section of Newly Graduate Resume

A great entry level resume college graduate should list lots of details about education to impress a hiring manager. These educational gains should meet requirements set forth in the job duties. Sometimes, even high school achievements matter if they are relevant.

Relevant Experience on a Graduate Resume

College graduates may not have enough experience to cover job description requirements. Yet, most of the jobs look for their soft skills as well. In this case, achievements in volunteer service or customer service experiences should go on their resumes even if they plan to become an engineer.

Here are several recent college graduate resume examples.

• Served food and helped clients pay.

Additional Tips on a Resume for Recent College Graduate

To land a job, a recent college grad resume should impress recruiters. This may be achieved by including extra resume sections that add some value. For example, you can list hobbies that make you stand out or meet the requirements of the job descriptions. Or, if you have certifications, you can put them as your main asset.

Resume Examples College Graduate: Main Skills

To pass through the ATS, your resume should include certain skills as keywords. You need to be honest while listing all those competencies of yours. At the same time, while selecting the skills for resume college graduate, one should still remain objective and mind relevancy.

If you don’t know how to set up a resume, there are some skills anyone can add. For example:

• responsibility;
• communication;
• analytical thinking;
• critical thinking.

College Student Resume Skills Examples (List)

Your skills resume section, however, must also be unique and relevant. Based on your field, decide what skills you should add to make your resume look good. Below is the list of the possible options:

• computer skills; 
• management; 
• social skills;
• communication skills; 
• problem-solving;
• decision-making;
• time management.

Resume for College Graduate: Additional Sections

If the previous sections do not include all your achievements, or if you feel that you need to share a passion of yours, consider including additional sections to your resume for college graduates.

Professional resumes usually exclude sections like interests, hobbies, and even languages. You’ll ask why. All career coaches say that if you want to know how to make a professional resume, you need to focus on the experience.

For a college grad, however, additional sections might be an asset. They will help recruiters understand that you stand out from your peers and are an interesting personality.

Your college grad resume may win you an interview if you have a few certifications to brag about. Don’t hesitate to attach this document to a resume. Certifications demonstrate your success and ability to learn by yourself. That’s why it’s often suggested to attend a few courses to get certifications and list them in resumes college graduates.

Language Skills

Knowing several languages may also look good on a resume recent graduate. Specific job postings look for bilinguals or trilinguals. If you are one of them, do mention these languages on your resume. 

• Spanish (Advanced)
• Italian (Intermediate)

Also, visit the website of the organization you want to work for to check if this employer works with different countries. This might require your communication skills.

Hobbies may also help you start your career. For example, if you like playing Monopoly, do mention it. This skill will be helpful if you try to land a job in finance or investments. Also, hobbies make resumes for college graduates sound more personable and interesting to read. But do not exaggerate in this section.

Professional Portfolio

Many recent college grad resumes will benefit from adding a professional portfolio as well, especially those whose owners excel in IT, creative writing, graphic design, etc. With that in mind, try to accommodate your results into a website or storage accessible by others. Many recruiters would love to check your proofs and processes online.

Best Resume Format

A format of a resume for college grad means a lot since this document also gets scanned by the ATS. To craft a winning resume, make sure you choose a modern template that is easy to scan. Do not forget that proper resume formatting means text layout as well. Try to ensure that your resume looks good. There are three types of resume format:

• chronological;
• functional;

As a recent graduate, you might want to choose the functional one, as it highlights your achievements or any relevant skills and hides insufficient experience.

We also want to mention that college graduate resume samples online are often non-ATS friendly. Be cautious because you need your resume to be a ticket to the interview. In summary, try to wow employers with your skills rather than a bright picture.

More Resume Examples

• Essay Editor

Resume Summary Examples for Students (With How-to Guide)

Writing a great resume summary can make a big difference when you're a student looking for a job. This short overview of your skills is the first thing employers see, so it's important to get it right. Even if you don't have much work experience, you can create a strong student resume summary showing employers why you'd be a great choice.

This guide will show you how to write an effective resume summary. We'll give you resume summary examples for students and useful tips to help you stand out when applying for jobs.

What is a resume summary?

A resume summary, also called a professional summary, is a short statement at the top of your resume that shows your main skills, qualifications, and career goals. For students, it's a chance to highlight your school achievements, important classes you've taken, and any internships or volunteer work that relates to the job you want.

A good resume summary is usually two to four sentences long and should:

• Get the reader's attention
• Show your most important qualifications
• Explain why you'd be valuable to the company
• Match what the job description asks for

For students, a well-written summary can make up for not having much work experience by focusing on skills you've learned and things you've achieved in school.

How to write a student resume summary

Writing an excellent student resume summary takes some thought and planning. Here's a step-by-step way to create an effective summary:

• Read the job description carefully: Look at what skills and qualifications the employer wants.
• Think about your strengths: Consider your school achievements, relevant classes, projects, and any internships or volunteer work.
• Choose what to focus on: Pick 2-3 main points that match what the job needs.
• Start with a strong first sentence: Begin by introducing yourself and saying what you're studying.
• Talk about relevant skills: Mention skills that fit the job description, including both specific and general skills.
• Include achievements: Mention any important things you've done in school or extracurricular activities.
• Share your career goals: Briefly say what you want to do professionally, especially if it fits with the job or company.
• Keep it short: Aim for 2-4 sentences that really show your value.

Remember to change your resume summary for each job you apply to. Don't use the same general statement for every application. Instead, focus on what makes you a good fit for that specific job.

What to include in a resume summary

When writing your student resume summary, think about including these things:

• Your current education: Mention your degree, what you're studying, and when you expect to graduate.
• Relevant skills: Talk about both specific and general skills that fit what the job needs.
• School achievements: Include things like a high GPA, being on the dean's list, or any awards you've won.
• Relevant classes or projects: Mention any courses or projects that show skills the job requires.
• Internship or volunteer experience: If you have any, briefly talk about work experience that relates to the job.
• Career goals: Say what you want to do professionally, especially if it matches the job.
• Personal qualities: Highlight traits that make you a good fit for the role and the company's culture.

Here's an example of how these parts might come together:

"Hardworking Computer Science student at XYZ University with a 3.8 GPA, looking for an entry-level software development job. Proficient in Java, Python, and C++, with experience in mobile app development for school projects. Exceptional problem-solving skills and a love for developing efficient, user-friendly apps."

Professional resume summary for college students

To help you understand how to write your own resume summary, here are some resume profile examples for students for college students in different fields:

• Business Administration Student: 

"Third-year Business Administration student at ABC University specialized in Marketing. Skilled at analyzing data and using social media for marketing, shown by successfully promoting campus events. Looking for a marketing internship to apply what I've learned in class in a real-world setting."

• Nursing Student: 

"Caring Nursing student in last year at DEF College with a 3.9 GPA. Have over 500 hours of experience in different healthcare settings. Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in high-pressure environments. Seeking an entry-level nursing job to help provide patient-centered care."

• Engineering Student: 

"Creative Mechanical Engineering student at GHI Institute with hands-on experience using CAD software and 3D printing. Led a team project making an energy-saving prototype, showing good leadership and problem-solving skills. Looking for an internship to learn more about sustainable design."

• Education Student: 

"Passionate Elementary Education major at JKL University with experience tutoring diverse learners. Skilled at putting together engaging lesson plans and using technology for teaching. Searching for a student teaching position to apply innovative teaching methods and foster a positive learning environment."

• Graphic Design Student: 

"Creative Graphic Design student at MNO College with proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite. My portfolio shows brand identity projects and digital drawings. Great at managing time, learned from doing freelance work. Looking for an internship to learn and bring new ideas to a dynamic design team."

These examples show how to make your resume summary fit your field of study and career goals. Remember to change your summary for each job you apply to, focusing on the skills and experiences that matter most for that specific job.

Writing an exceptional resume summary as a student is an important skill that can really help you get a job. By following this guide and looking at the resume profile examples for students we provided, you can write a strong summary that shows your potential and makes you stand out from other applicants.

Remember, your resume summary is just the start. To make a really standout resume, you need to pay attention to every part. If you want help writing your resume, use Aithor , a versatile writing tool that can help you polish your writing and ensure that your resume looks professional.

With practice and persistence, you can write a professional summary for a resume college student that opens doors to exciting job opportunities.

Good luck with your job search!

Related articles

What is self-plagiarism & how to avoid it.

Have you ever thought about whether using your own work again could be seen as copying? It might seem strange, but self-plagiarism is a real issue in school and work writing. Let's look at what this means and learn how to avoid self-plagiarism so your work stays original and ethical. What is self-plagiarism? Self-plagiarism, also called auto-plagiarism or duplicate plagiarism, happens when a writer uses parts of their old work without saying where it came from. This isn't just about copying w ...

Paraphrasing vs Plagiarism: Do They Really Differ?

Academic assignments require much knowledge and skill. One of the most important points is rendering and interpreting material one has ever studied. A person should avoid presenting word-for-word plagiarism but express his or her thoughts and ideas as much as possible. However, every fine research is certain to be based on the previous issues, data given, or concepts suggested. And here it's high time to differentiate plagiarism and paraphrasing, to realize its peculiarities and cases of usage. ...

Plagiarism: 7 Types in Detail

Your professor says that it is necessary to avoid plagiarism when writing a research paper, essay, or any project based on the works of other people, so to say, any reference source. But what does plagiarism mean? What types of it exist? And how to formulate the material to get rid of potential bad consequences while rendering original texts? Today we try to answer these very questions. Plagiarism: Aspect in Brief Plagiarism is considered to be a serious breach, able to spoil your successful ...

What is Citation and Why Should You Cite the Sources When Writing Content

When we write something for school, work, or just for fun, we often use ideas and facts from other places. This makes us ask: what is a citation in writing? Let's find out what this means and why it's really important when we write. What is Citation? Citation in research refers to the practice of telling your readers where you got your information, ideas, or exact words from. It's like showing them the path to the original information you used in your writing. When you cite something, you us ...

Can Plagiarism Be Detected on PDF?

Plagiarism has been a challenge for a long time in writing. It's easy to find information online, which might make some people use it without saying where it came from. But plagiarism isn't just taking someone else's words. Sometimes, we might do it by accident or even use our own old work without mentioning it. When people plagiarize, they can get into serious trouble. They might lose others' trust or even face legal problems. Luckily, we now have tools to detect plagiarism. But what about PDF ...

Top 10 Use Cases for AI Writers

Writing is changing a lot because of AI. But don't worry — AI won't take human writers' jobs. It's a tool that can make our work easier and help us write better. When we use AI along with our own skills, we can create good content faster and better. AI can help with many parts of writing, from coming up with ideas to fixing the final version. Let's look at the top 10 ways how to use AI for content creation and how it can make your writing better. What Is AI Content Writing? AI content writin ...

How To Write Essays Faster Using AI?

Creating various topical texts is an obligatory assignment during studies. For a majority of students, it seems like a real headache. It is quite difficult to write a smooth and complex work, meeting all the professors' requirements. However, thanks to modern technologies there appeared a good way of getting a decent project – using AI to write essays. We'd like to acquaint you with Aithor, an effective tool of this kind, able to perform fine and elaborated texts, and, of course, inspiration, i ...

How to Write a Dialogue in an Essay: Useful Tips

A correct usage of dialogues in essays may seem quite difficult at first sight. Still there are special issues, for instance, narrative or descriptive papers, where this literary technique will be a good helper in depicting anyone's character. How to add dialogues to the work? How to format them correctly? Let's discuss all relevant matters to master putting conversation episodes into academic essays. Essay Dialogue: Definition & Purpose A dialogue is a literary technique for presenting a con ...

Dear Recent College Grads, Here's How to Write a Great Cover Letter

A job search can quickly become a full-time job on its own. As a recent graduate looking for your next step, you might be tempted to attach your resume and click apply without bothering to send an accompanying cover letter. But taking the time to write one is worth the effort. This is the only place where you have free rein to explain why you’re interested in the job and how exactly you’re a good match. A compelling letter makes it so much easier for the reader to think, “ Yes! Let’s interview them!”

In my experience as a hiring manager, a cover letter can make or break my interest in moving forward with a candidate. If an application doesn’t include one, I’m almost certain to pass unless the resume is pretty much a perfect match. Admittedly, there are other recruiters and hiring managers who don’t look at the cover letter at all—but it’s best to assume that they will (it certainly beats wondering if you didn’t make the cut just because you didn’t send one!). And even if they don’t read it, you’re still ahead of the game in your preparation if you get called for an interview.

The basics of a cover letter boil down to this outline:

• An introductory paragraph (who you are, why this company and this job, and a bridge between the two)
• One or two themed paragraphs (highlighting and showing you have skills that match the job)
• A closing paragraph (some quick additional highlights and a request to speak further)

Four paragraphs should be a breeze—I bet you’ve written plenty of assignments longer than that to earn your degree! So how can you leverage your letter to effectively win over the recruiter or hiring manager even as a new grad who doesn’t have much experience?

Here are seven tips along with an example of what a recent college graduate cover letter could look like.

1. Tell Them Who You Are

Right off the bat, the person reading your letter is going to want to know some basic information in the introductory paragraph—like a quick synopsis of who you are, what you’re applying for, and why you’re interested in this opportunity. Sharing up front that you’re a recent grad signals that you’re likely able to be onboarded quickly, which is great if they need an expedited hiring process (or if they’re looking to train new talent). Here’s what a quick opening might look like:

Dear Mr. Fortman,

I am excited to submit my application for the UX Designer opening at CompanyDesign. As a recent graduate with a software engineering degree from Big State University, I am confident I could contribute to the success of your team.

2. Highlight Why This Company

Once you introduce yourself, it’s time to tell the reader why you’re trying to land a job at this specific organization. Showing them clearly and explicitly why you’re interested, excited, or passionate about the work they do and explaining how you’re connected to it can help convince them to add you to their interview list.

If you have some sort of contact at the company—someone at the company referred you, you spoke to a recruiter at your college’s career fair or info session, or you have a friend who interned there—mention what you learned from them and how what they shared makes you feel this would be an exciting opportunity and a good fit. Be specific where you can. If you were applying for that UX design role, you might say:

In February, I had the pleasure of speaking with Allison Ro from the product team at a career panel on campus. After learning about the company’s focus on human-centered design and your multidisciplinary team approach to creating products that improve the world, I knew CompanyDesign was where I wanted to work.

If you don’t have any “ins” at the company or first-hand information like this, don’t worry! You can do a bit of sleuthing and research in other ways. What can you find on their website or Muse profile about their work that excites you? Do they have values that are top priorities for you—like sustainability? Check out their mission page to find out! Is their work culture the type of environment where you can thrive and contribute? Have they been in the news recently for innovation or a new product? Find some nuggets of information that resonate with you and weave those specifics into answering the all-important “ Why this company? ” question. 

No matter where you got your information, you want to show you understand the company and what you can add as a new hire. Conveying an interest and excitement for working specifically for this job at this company—rather than a desire to get any job at any company that’ll pay you a salary—can go a long way. After all, it can be easier to hire someone who is super into the work you do and needs a bit of training over someone with all the skills who doesn’t care about the work or mesh with the team.

3. Identify Their Needs for This Role

Once you’ve connected at a higher level with the company, the next two paragraphs can help you stand out as a top candidate if you align yourself and your skills closely with what the company needs. Unlike cover letters you may have written when applying to internships , where it may make sense to talk about being excited for the learning opportunity, your focus as a new grad seeking full-time employment should shift to how you can meet the company’s needs. It’s all about how you can contribute to their success rather than the other way around.

The best way to do this is to identify the top skills and qualities for the role and explicitly match those with what you have to offer. Use the job description as your blueprint. Typically, the most important attributes of the role will be mentioned higher up in the description. Pay attention to themes that are repeated throughout, too. If they mention design skills, or aspects of design, in multiple spots that’s an area you should highlight. If they mention collaboration, teamwork, and communication, that’s another clue for a theme you should address.

Unfortunately, not all job descriptions are detailed. If you need more information to figure out what recruiters and hiring managers are looking for, see if you can find a person currently (or previously) in this role—or a similar role—at the company by searching on LinkedIn. You’re likely to get some good insights from their experience entries or the recommendations their colleagues or clients wrote for them. If you have any connections at the company you may be able to get a better sense of what they look for through an informational interview . However, be mindful not to wait too long to get your application in!

4. Demonstrate Your Value—Show, Don’t Tell

Once you’ve done some reconnaissance, pick three or four of the main themes you identified that correlate to the skills, strengths, and attributes you have. Your goal in the next couple of paragraphs of your cover letter will be to share a few stories that demonstrate how you’ll bring those skills, strengths, and attributes to the position.

Having recently graduated, you may be applying to your very first full-time job or trying to get your foot in the door in a role or field you don’t have direct experience in. That’s OK! College classes, internships, research experiences, part-time jobs, work-study programs, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and personal projects can all be used as examples to back up and show your value to the employer. And you can always highlight transferable and additive skills .

If you’re applying to a marketing job and you didn’t land a marketing internship before you graduated, for example, you may have had a relevant class project or gained experience using a similar skill set when you advertised events as a Resident Assistant. Maybe you had a work-study job at the campus bookstore and you maintained its social media pages, or you were in charge of recruiting new students to your student club and increased the membership. Perhaps you had a job where you had to be a data whiz in a fast-paced and collaborative environment and that could be an added benefit to this employer. Find the connections between some of the skills you used in these situations—advertising, telling a story to reach your audience, increasing engagement, and making data-informed decisions—and explain how they can transfer into what was outlined in the job description.

One common pitfall to avoid as a new grad is highlighting things you don’t specifically have yet. If you’re leading with a negative like, “Although I don’t have…”—skip it! Jump right to what you were going to say next. So instead of saying:

Although I don’t have experience with Tableau, I have experience leveraging analytics to make data informed decisions using Looker.

You should just say:

I have experience leveraging analytics to make data informed decisions using Looker.

Remember, with these paragraphs you want to tell a compelling story. Don’t just reiterate the facts on your resume. Take time to highlight the theme(s) you’re focusing on at the beginning of the paragraph. Next, show you have these qualities instead of just saying you have them with nothing to back it up. Share an example that highlights the value you added and connects back to the job opportunity. So if you’re applying for a data analyst role, your paragraph might look like this:

I have experience using business intelligence software and leveraging analytics to make data-informed decisions. While interning at Startup, I used Looker to analyze customer service ratings and identified trends that correlated with high satisfaction ratings. I presented the data to my team along with three key recommendations that I predicted could increase overall customer service ratings by 10%. I discovered that I most enjoy trying to understand the “why” behind the data and translating that into strategies for improvement. I would be thrilled to apply this same motivation to help A-Company manage and gain insights from their data to drive innovation.

5. Show Off Those Soft Skills

When reviewing the job and deciding what to highlight, remember that soft skills , like collaboration and communication, are often highly sought after as well. Technical skills are no use to an employer if you can’t communicate with a client or lead a project to completion. If these skills frequently show up in a job description you may choose to highlight them in a separate paragraph. You can also demonstrate them within stories that showcase your technical themes.

Group projects for internships or classes are prime experiences that can help you highlight many interpersonal skills . Collaborative work, like being on athletic teams or in student clubs, are also gold mines to draw upon as examples.

A word of caution: I often see new grads relay the entire story from the group “we” perspective, which can be detrimental as the employer doesn’t know what you did. It’s important to give context about the makeup of the team, and certainly give credit where credit is due, but then it’s most useful to transition and describe what responsibilities you had, how you contributed to the overall project, and what the outcome was. Here’s an example of how to set up that transition:

Through my Business Insights class, I was part of a team of four students tasked with developing and pitching a new business idea. Once we landed on an idea for a new food delivery service targeting college students, I led our efforts on market analysis...

6. Keep Connecting Back to the Company

Instead of calling it quits after highlighting relevant past experiences and demonstrating your skills and qualities, be sure to tell the reader how what you’re sharing matches with the role and company. This takes the guesswork out of how or if you might be a fit. Don’t assume they’ll make the connections themselves. Spell them out and make them impossible to miss! 

You might be noticing a theme here: You should keep looping back to the specific role and company you’re applying for at every turn. From the intro to the experience paragraphs to the closing, you can only strengthen your cover letter by directly aligning yourself with this opportunity.

7. Watch Your Formatting

The content of your letter is most important, but here are some helpful formatting tips for traditional cover letters if you’re new to writing them.

The top of your document should include the following information:

• Your name, address, and contact information
• The company’s address

If you’re writing the cover letter directly in an email, then you can skip those details at the top. But either way, try to include the name of the person to whom you are writing in your greeting. It’s always best if you can find the recruiter or the supervisor for the position so you can address your cover letter to them. If you can’t, then go with something more general like, “ Dear Hiring Manager,” or “ Dear Editorial Team .” Just stay far away from, “ To Whom It May Concern ”!

A few additional pointers:

• Don’t go over the one-page mark.
• Margins are usually between one and 0.7 inches.
• Make sure your font and font size are easily readable. Think Times New Roman or Arial at a font size of 11 or above.
• Sign off formally (“Sincerely” is always solid) and include your contact information below your signature if you didn’t include it elsewhere.

What Does a Good Recent Grad Cover Letter Look Like?

So what does all of this actually look like in practice? Below is a sample cover letter for an entry-level job. Anything in bold directly aligns this candidate with the job description.

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to apply for the Content Specialist (Req. #04321) opening at Consumer P. Company. As a recent graduate from Local College with a communications major and a digital media concentration, I have a passion for elevating consumer products that change the world . After speaking with Tanya Jones at our spring career fair and learning about CPC’s fast-paced environment, collaborative spirit, and goal to reach its audience in creative ways, I knew this role would be perfect. I admire CPC’s mission to design five-star products that make life easier and believe my knowledge and experiences would allow me to add value to the marketing team.

Through my internship at ContentCo I gained hands-on experience in understanding consumer insights, building partnerships with influencers , and developing content strategies . Working on a tight deadline prior to a new product launch, my fellow intern and I gathered early user testimonials, stories, and media . I also developed a short video mockup for a social media campaign that I’m proud to say was selected to be part of the launch. I would be eager to bring these same skills and passion for storytelling to CPC’s brand and world-class products.

During my time at Local College I also gained experience interpreting data and leading social media campaigns. As part of a semester-long project, my group collaborated with a local bakery on their marketing strategies . I led our efforts to launch a new Instagram account and was responsible for data collection and interpretation . Our client implement ed several of our recommendations, which resulted in an increase in social media traffic and purchases. I was particularly motivated by the bakery’s commitment to the community—donating daily to local food pantries—and am excited to know CPC similarly values giving back to the community.

Through my internship and academic experiences in communications, along with my involvement in our college chapter of the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA), where I learned new trends for innovation in design , I have developed a strong skill set to add value as a CPC Content Specialist. I would be thrilled to speak with you further about how I can contribute to the marketing team. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Patrick Lai

Search form

Make a Gift

Department of Economics

• Undergraduate

18 Résumé Writing Tips to Help You Stand Out

By  Allison Pohle

Updated May 11, 2021 2:15 pm ET

• A résumé isn’t just a list of every job you’ve ever had. It should demonstrate your accomplishments.
• Mirror language used in the job posting so your résumé isn’t discarded by an applicant tracking system.
• Use a clean and simple format. 

Companies increasingly  rely on software  to sort through applicants, which is why it is essential to tailor your résumé to ensure it makes the cut. Applicant tracking systems sort, scan and rank applicants by looking for keywords in applications. Although these programs can save time and money for employers, about 60% said such tools cause them to miss some qualified candidates, according to a 2016 survey of 1,200 job seekers and managers by CareerArc, a human-resources technology company, and Future Workplace, a research firm. Here’s how to make your résumé stand out to robots and humans alike. 

1. Highlight your achievements in your résumé. 

A common mistake job seekers make is believing a résumé is a recap of your career, when in reality, it should convey what you have accomplished, says Christy Noel, a career expert and author of “Your Personal Career Coach.” 

“I always say, spend less of your real estate describing your job, and more time describing your results,” says Ms. Noel.  

2. Customize your résumé.

Read over the job posting, and think about the work experience you have had that is most directly relevant to the position you are pursuing. You can leave out some past jobs and internships if the experience you had wasn’t related. Whatever you do: Don’t submit a generic résumé to dozens of postings. “Even if you have the best experience, if your résumé isn’t speaking directly to the position in which you are applying, there is a strong chance you’ll never even get an interview,” says Demisha Jennings, a certified professional résumé writer and founder and owner of She Assists LLC.  

The same applies to your cover letter. It is your chance to provide more detail on how your experience will help you succeed in the job.  Read our cover letter guide  for how to write one that makes you stand out.

3. Decide how to format your résumé.

Most of the time, a chronological résumé will work well for communicating your past experience. But, in some cases, a functional or hybrid résumé might be more appropriate.  Read more about résumé formats here.

4. Make your contact information easy to find.

Include your name, phone number, email address, city and state. It may also be appropriate to include the URL to your LinkedIn profile. You want it to be easy for hiring managers to reach out.

In addition to making it easy to connect with you, it is important to your job search that you grow your network.  Read our networking guide  for tips on how to do so.

5. Consider adding a summary. 

Many résumé templates leave space for an objective statement, outlining career goals, but that approach is outdated, says Ms. Jennings. Instead, consider a carefully worded summary. The summary is often the first place a hiring manager will look, and gives you an opportunity to introduce your skills high up on the page. You can also work in relevant keywords from the job description. “Recruiters are looking for what you can bring to the table and what you’ve done, rather than you saying, ‘I’m seeking a position,’” Ms. Jennings says. 

6. Great résumés should stand out to skim readers.

Most recruiters spend just a few seconds skimming through a résumé—with an average in one study of  7.4 seconds.  

To have the best chance of making an impression, ensure your job titles, company names and dates of employment are easy to read. The sections of your résumé should be adequately spaced, too, says Dana Leavy-Detrick, founder and director of Brooklyn Resume Studio. 

For additional ways to make a good impression on recruiters and headhunters, read  our guide on how to work with headhunters .

7. Make your résumé robot-friendly. 

Structure your résumé to meet the requirements of an applicant tracking system to give yourself the best chance of having it reach an actual human. Ms. Leavy-Detrick suggests the following:

• Optimize keywords.  Use the same words and language that are in the job description. For example, three different companies might describe the same role as “programmer,” “developer” or “software engineer.” 
• Use a straightforward format.  Avoid tables and text-based graphics, which might not get picked up by a scan of the résumé. Sans-serif fonts such as Arial or Helvetica are also best to ensure readability.
• Think about order.  When formatting each line item of work experience, list the company name first, followed by the job location (city, state), your job title, and your start and end dates. Some résumés can get lost if the dates are listed before the job title. 

8. Prioritize relevant keywords. 

Tailoring your skills to include language from the job posting is an important way to let both the applicant tracking system and, eventually, a hiring manager, see how your prior qualifications tie into the job requirements. But just because you have a résumé full of keywords doesn’t mean you’ll automatically get an interview. “The ATS isn’t there to help the job seeker, it is there to help the employer review your skills against their most important qualifications,” says Ashley Watkins, a career coach and résumé writer with Write Step Résumés LLC. 

9. Craft compelling and concise bullet points.

The goal of a résumé is to list your accomplishments, rather than every duty you performed in the role. Résumé-writing experts recommend including no more than five bullet points per prior job listed. 

• Don’t focus on tasks.  Many job seekers describe what they did every day, such as answering phones or creating marketing materials, Ms. Watkins says. “Simply copying and pasting the job description doesn’t account for the things you did great, that you did above and beyond your peers,” she says.
• Instead, explain what those tasks achieved.  Emphasize your results. Ms. Watkins suggests asking yourself “Did I save [the employer] money? Did I save time? Did I improve a process? Did I build a relationship?” These will help you format your bullet points.
• Use metrics.  Say what you achieved, then contextualize it—with figures if possible. You might not be able to put a monetary value on every accomplishment, but you can frame it by sharing details like the time it took or how many people were involved. “If you raised sales 50% in two months, that means a whole lot more than ‘I’m in charge of sales,’” Ms. Watkins says. 
• Don’t omit accomplishments that aren’t quantifiable.  Not every achievement will have metrics to show success. If there are figures, you might not always have access to them. But that shouldn’t stop you from including them, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. Perhaps you had a positive impact on the culture of an organization, or improved a struggling relationship with a client. These efforts could help to demonstrate your  soft skills.

10. Focus on transferable skills if you lack experience.

If you are applying for a job in a new field or you are an entry-level applicant and don’t have much direct experience, don’t worry. Highlight transferable skills you have developed in the past that will serve you well in the position, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. For example, you could play up leadership skills you developed participating in an extracurricular activity or time-management skills you learned in a prior job.

11. Go beyond your work history, and include all relevant experience.

If you are new to the workforce, or are job-hunting after being laid off, you could also include related experience that was outside of a traditional full-time job, says Ms. Watkins. For example, you can highlight volunteer work, consulting projects or educational training, all as part of making the case for your unique value, she says.

12. Don’t worry too much about gaps in your résumé.

The Covid-19 pandemic economy resulted in many people being laid off or furloughed. Ms. Watkins says the 2020 job market reminds her of 2008, when she worked as a recruiter. The expectation at that time, she says, was that candidates would have  gaps  on their résumés or list more short-term positions. While it isn’t necessary to directly address the gaps in your résumé, you should be  prepared to talk about them in an interview . “The focus should not be centered on the fact that you were furloughed or laid off, it should be focused on you and your skills and what you do that impacts the company’s bottom line in a positive way,” Ms. Watkins says.

While it is common to list the months and years you started and ended positions in the job history section, you could just use years. This will draw less attention to a six- or eight-month gap, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. 

13. Highlight relevant skills.

It is common to  add a skills section to your résumé , outlining expertise relevant to the position. You can include languages you speak, technical skills or courses you have done. If you lack experience, you can also complete some trainings, which you can find on LinkedIn and elsewhere, related to the job you are applying for and add the courses in this section, says Ms. Jennings.

14. Prioritize work experience over education.

The professional experience you have had is often more relevant to the position than your education history, which is why the work experience should be listed first. In the “Education” section, you should list where you attended college, if applicable, or the highest level of education you have attained. If you graduated with honors, you can flag that, but it isn’t necessary to list your GPA.

15. If you are early on in your career, a key résumé tip is to limit it to one page. 

If you are early on in your career, you should limit your résumé to one page. It is OK to start spilling onto a second page after you have eight to 10 years of experience, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. 

16. Add some color for a stylish résumé that sets you apart. 

Your résumé should look clean and professional and you should keep applicant tracking systems in mind when formatting the document. But, if it is appropriate, you can add subtle accents of color in the section headings or in bars that separate sections as a way to differentiate your résumé. Ms. Leavy-Detrick doesn’t overstress the need for good design with her clients. “But it can definitely help,” she says. “When I say design, I don’t mean crazy graphic design. I mean having a polished application,” she says. “Think of it the same way you would coming dressed to an interview, it is part of your presentation, and so many people overlook this on the résumé.”

It may be appropriate to incorporate a more creative and graphic-based layout depending on the field in which you work and where you are applying. If you are applying for a position in a creative field, and you are emailing your résumé directly to a hiring manager, then it can be appropriate to use more designs, says Ms. Jennings. But if you are applying to a large company that uses an applicant tracking system or job portal, she says it is best to avoid using graphics unless you are working with a résumé writer who can help you get your resume through the system.

17. Proofread and double-check the formatting.

You may be eager to send your résumé or submit your application, but you should take the time to first check for typos and grammatical errors. You could also have a friend or family member look over it. When you are checking for errors, be sure to double-check the formatting. Sometimes the spacing can get thrown off when you save the file, so check how it looks as a saved document and, if you can, save it as a PDF before sending. 

18. Make sure the saved file name includes your name. 

Make less work for the hiring manager by including your full name in the file name of the résumé document.

What to read next

• How to Prepare for a Job Interview
• What Questions to Ask During a Job Interview
• Common Job Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
• How to Dress for a Job Interview
• How to Write a Thank-You Email After a Job Interview  
• How to Negotiate and Counter a Job Offer
• How to Negotiate Salary for a New Job: The Do’s and Don’ts
• Severance Pay: What It Is and Why You Should Negotiate a Package Before Accepting a Job

Corrections & Amplifications Ashley Watkins is a résumé writer with Write Step Résumés LLC. An earlier version of this article incorrectly said Write Steps LLC. (Corrected on Nov. 20)

Copyright ©2024 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8

Appeared in the November 23, 2020, print edition as '11 Résumé Tips to Help You Get Noticed

This website does not fully support Internet Explorer. For a better experience, please consider using a modern browser such as Chrome , Firefox , or Edge .

How To Make Your Resume Stand Out

Wondering how to make your resume stand out from the rest? When hiring managers are bombarded with resumes from potential candidates, the last thing you want is for yours to be lost in the pile. With this in mind, this article provides five actionable resume tips to follow. You’ll learn what should be on a resume and how to position yourself as a competitive candidate.

In This Article:

Why Your Resume Needs to Stand Out From the Rest

Resume tips for making a good impression, what should be on a resume, resume examples, prepare for your future at gcu.

Companies can get hundreds of applications for a single job posting. In order to potentially secure an interview for a job you may be interested in, you not only need a strong academic background but also a professional resume that stands out from the crowd and showcases your unique skills and experiences. This is particularly true if your chosen field is characterized by a tough job market, in which there is considerable competition for desirable positions.

What makes a resume stand out? Hiring managers like to see highly professional, well-polished resumes which showcase key skills and competencies and highlight any relevant experience — whether paid or volunteer. The key word here is “relevant.” You must tweak your resume for each position you apply to, taking care to make sure the most relevant information for each position is highly visible.

First and foremost, never forget to proofread! Submitting an error-filled resume is one of the main ways to get immediately rejected. Be thorough and try to get a friend or family member to read it for you, too.

Secondly, include your contact information. It sounds like a no-brainer, but even the best resume in the world is useless without a way for the employer to contact you. They most likely won’t go searching for your information, no matter how good your resume is. When listing your address, it is best to only include city and state instead of your full address. If you are looking for employment in the same area as your university, use the city and state where you are attending school.

As a complement to these resume tips, it’s advisable to keep your social media cleaned up. Companies often search for potential employees online, so all public social media accounts should be screened for appropriateness. You can ensure that your social media pages are private and not publicly viewable. Still, be cautious because screenshots can be captured from your page(s) and shared.

One important account to have is a LinkedIn profile . Through LinkedIn — a professional networking platform — employers and other professionals can access your profile. Your LinkedIn profile functions as an extended resume. Some hiring managers may even use it to conduct the hiring process.

Follow these five tips and you’ll be well on your way to making your resume stand out.

1. Create a Professional Summary Statement

A professional summary statement is meant to grab the attention of hiring managers and show them what you can bring to their organization. On your resume, you have a short window of time to show how you are a great fit for the position. It’s important to gain the attention of the hiring manager right away so they want to keep reading.

When creating your professional summary statement, consider what the hiring manager wants to know about you. By highlighting what you can do for the organization, they will be more likely to reach out to you for an interview.

Use descriptive words that add to your value as a potential employee. Instead of sticking with commonly used phrases, try to think outside the box and include active words that will spark their interest.

2. Incorporate Industry Keywords

One of the most effective resume tips is to incorporate information from the job description itself. For example, the job description might state, “Looking for a creative individual who has experience with Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom.” You can easily incorporate this into your resume by stating you are a creative individual who has experience with Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. As simple as this may sound, it can go a long way! It is imperative though to refrain from copying and pasting information from a job posting into your resume, and to only list skills and experiences which are factual. Academic integrity extends beyond the classroom and should be practiced throughout your career.

3. Use CAR Statements

Another great way to make your resume stand out is to include accomplishment statements, otherwise known as CAR (challenge, action, results) statements. These state not only what you did in your previous experience, but also the way in which you carried out your tasks.

In the workplace, the past is a great indicator of the future. So, by listing the challenges you have faced in the past, the action you took and the positive result that came of it, hiring managers can get an idea of what kind of a worker you are.

4. Use a Professional Resume Template

The visual appearance of your cover letter and resume does matter. While the content of your resume is the most important, hiring managers can easily be turned off by a disorganized and unprofessional-looking document.

Today, there are so many great resources when it comes to putting together your resume. Just by browsing the web, you can view resume templates which may have a format or design you like. Resume templates may be difficult to format so be careful to ensure that any resource you utilize is user-friendly. Most college students can easily format a resume.

5. Formatting

Perfecting the format of your resume is a vital step of the process. If a resume is not easy to read, it can get tossed to the bottom of the pile. Choose and left-align a standard font, using bold and italics to designate headings and sub-headings.

Make sure there is a good balance of text to white space, so it does not appear too congested. Bullet points are your best friend! Reviewing a resume template can help you nail the format.

Lastly, you should never leave the best for last. The most important information should always be in the top half or one-third of the page. It is often said you should keep your resume at one page, but if you are cutting out valuable information to do so, it may not be worth it. A second opinion can help you judge what to keep and what to cut.

There are many examples of great resumes online. You can search for examples by field and type of job position to get a sense of how your resume should look for your preferred position.

As you look at examples, you’ll likely notice that resumes often don’t use complete sentences. Indeed offers this example of an executive summary for a paralegal resume: 1

“Organized and detail-oriented Paralegal with 3+ years of experience supporting attorneys by performing day-to-day administrative tasks, drafting legal documents and assisting with research”

Here, note that the number “3” jumps out at the reader. It’s important to make sure any experience you have is easily identifiable. This resume also uses action words like “drafting” and “supporting.”

Korn Ferry offers an example of an excellent resume for a recent college graduate, noting that it’s ideal to keep sections short and sweet. If you try to list every single responsibility you had as an intern, for example, the hiring manager might think you’re exaggerating. Instead, try to emulate Korn Ferry’s example of a strong internship section: 1

• Drafted promotional copy for websites
• Rounded up select content and drafted copy for daily email newsletters
• Assisted in all facets of news reporting, writing and editing, including for the award-winning SpotCheck investigation team

Grand Canyon University’s Career Services can provide resources, professional knowledge and support to help you transition from academics into a career you may find rewarding.

1  Indeed Editorial Team. (2024, June 7). Resume Samples and Examples . Retrieved July 1, 2024. 

2  Burnison, G. (2024). The 3 Best Resumes I’ve Ever Seen. Korn Ferry . Retrieved July 1, 2024. 

Approved by the executive director of Career Services on Aug. 20, 2024. 

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Grand Canyon University. Any sources cited were accurate as of the publish date.

• Career Corner
• College Prep
• Master's Degrees

Loading Form

Top Related Degrees

Loading Degree Programs

Related Articles in GCU Experience

Is Honors College Worth it?

Living On Campus vs. Off Campus: Comparing Academic Success Outcomes

How To Get Scholarships and Grants for College

More related articles in GCU Experience

Resume Templates

Create and edit your resume online

Generate compelling resumes with our user-friendly tool and secure employment quickly.

Resume examples for 217 jobs

Writing the perfect resume with our help just got easier. Check our resume guides for the job you desire.

Most Popular Resume Examples

Featured articles

• Free Online Certifications to Add to Your Resume
• Make Shadowing Hours a Part of Your Resume
• How to Decline a Job Offer but Keep the Door Open

Latests articles

• Top People Skills to Include in Your Resume (With Examples)
• The Definitive Guide to Resume Review With AI
• How To Write a Resume for Skills-Based Hiring
• How to Show Your Achievements on a Resume: STAR & CAR Methods
• Improve Your LinkedIn Profile Using ChatGPT

Dive Into Expert Guides to Enhance your Resume

Make use of expert tips & tricks to to help you build the perfect resume

Everything can be completed in just a few minutes and a handful of clicks. Choose a resume template, fill it out and download it, for free !

Our customers have been hired by:

Resume Templates that will get you hired in 2024!

European 2023

San Francisco

Johannesburg

Online Resume Templates That Get Grads Jobs

Entering the job market for the first time is challenging which is why ResumeGiants is designed to help you through the process. Whether you’re targeting an internship, or your first “real job” after graduation, we’re here to offer all the tools and support you need to tackle creating your very first resume template

Designs That Resonate with Recruiters

A well-organized and stylish resume template helps grads stand out in the job market and get noticed faster by recruiters. With ResumeGiants you have access to the best layouts and design options that not only look professional but are stylish and eye-catching too.

Easy to Create, Edit, and Download

Creating a resume template for the first time can seem overwhelming at first, but you don’t have to worry. With our resume builder and editor, you’ll see how easy it is to put together your professional profile. Take advantage of step-by-step guidance, customizable templates, and useful tips along the way.

Speed Up the Resume Creation Process

With the help of ResumeGiants, you can cut down on the time spent planning, designing, and writing your resume and spend more time tailoring your file for specific employers. After all, the more time you have, the more jobs you can target.

Create Templates That Are Proven to Work!

The templates we use here at ResumeGiants get results. We know, we’ve tested them! Using resume templates that are proven to work will help you get the confidence you need and, more importantly, the success required to move your career search forward.

Build an Effective Resume With Our Templates

Taking the big step from high school or college to the working world can be a stressful one. Avoid the uncertainty and confusion of writing a resume for the first time and get confident preparing applications for jobs with the help of ResumeGiants. Our tools are designed to take the fear factor out of this process, so you can get your career moving faster.

What Resume Templates Can I Use?

Free resume templates are popular online but which kind works best? We’ve taken a closer look over some of the most common types you may come across to find out.

High School Student Johanesburg

College student Omsk

Administrator Auckland

Word Resume Templates

Microsoft word has long been the king of word processing and a popular tool for resume writing. Over the past decade, the developers have added a number of specially prepared simple Word templates that you can use to drop your information into a resume layout.

Google Doc Resume Templates

Like Microsoft, Google has also prepared special resume templates for Docs. These can be accessed from Google Workspace, Drive, and Google Docs using your web browser and all you need to do is edit the predesigned template with your own information.

Our online Resume Builder comes with extra capabilities

• Editor available in 13 languages
• Create s everal resumes and cover letters
• Secure permanent storage
• Usable on a variety of devices

Interesting templates for students

Interesting templates by design

Struggling with Resume Writing?

Ease the process with our templates

Thanks for using our free templates!

Enjoy ResumeGiants? We’d love it if you’d leave a review – it’d help others!

We hope we’ve helped you to move closer to your dream job.  Have you found our resources helpful? If so, share your experiences with others – leave a review! (10 seconds max)

Scholarship Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

Scholarship Resume Templates and Examples (Download in App)

Most popular scholarship resumes.

• College Student
• High School Student
• Resume Text Examples

How To Write a Scholarship Resume

• Athletic Scholarship
• Student Scholarship
• College Scholarship

College Student Resume Example

High School Student Resume Example

10 Student Resume Examples

Scholarship Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples

Anthony Gentile (123) 456-7890 [email protected] Detroit, MI 12345 LinkedIn | Portfolio

An All-American student athlete with a strong history of success in high school football and basketball. A dedicated team captain with a proven track record of leading championship teams. Seeking the John Atkins Athletic Scholarship at the University of Michigan to pursue a college football career and a bachelor’s degree in philosophy.

Professional Experience

Quarterback , Ithaca High School, Ithaca, MI | August 2021 – December 2024

• Completed 229 of 315 pass attempts, achieved a 68% completion rating, and generated 3,210 passing yards, 490 rushing yards, and 37 total touchdowns during the 2024 season
• Led the Ithaca Warriors to a 13-2 regular season record and a state championship, resulting in recognition as an All-American Athlete
• Served as a team captain for the varsity football team from 2021 to 2024, which included mentoring junior athletes and increasing team morale throughout the season

Point Guard , Ithaca High School, Ithaca, MI | November 2021 – March 2022

• Acted as a team captain for the junior basketball team during the 2021 and 2022 seasons, contributing to a semi-final appearance in the state tournament
• Generated 17 points per game (PPG), 13 PPG, and five offensive rebounds PPG as a point guard
• Attended charity events with the team to raise funding for community initiatives such as food drives and Toys for Tots
• Team leadership

High School Diploma Ithaca High School, Ithaca, MI | 2024

• All-American Football Award | 2024

This scholarship resume is effective because it highlights the candidate’s athletic achievements using impactful numbers and hard data. The bullet points also convey who the applicant is as a team leader, which strengthens their overall application.

Aliya Jackson (123) 456-7890 [email protected] Philadelphia, PA 12345 LinkedIn | Portfolio

A high school student with a 3.97 GPA and a proven track record of performing community service and supporting social justice issues. Seeking the William Morris Scholarship at Temple University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in social work.

Volunteer Experience

Volunteer, Youth Volunteer Corps, Philadelphia, PA| September 2021 – June 2024

• Collaborated with diverse teams of student volunteers and coordinators to execute a wide range of community service projects within the Greater Philadelphia Area, including building a new youth recreation center
• Performed over 500 hours of community service, which included volunteering at food pantries, mentoring grade school students, and supporting charity events

Student Volunteer , North Philadelphia High School | June 2020 – June 2024

• Served as a student volunteer for over 40 public service initiatives at North Philadelphia High School in support of equitable causes, including cancer research, social justice awareness campaigns, and food drives
• Community service
• Communication
• Relationship building
• Fundraising

High School Diploma North Philadelphia High School, Philadelphia, PA | 2024

In this scholarship resume example, the applicant showcases their commitment to community service. Highlighting the number of hours they volunteered and the types of initiatives they supported helps to paint a compelling image of their background for the reader.

Hideo Araki (123) 456-7890 [email protected] Seattle, WA 12345 LinkedIn | Portfolio

A college student with a 3.96 GPA and two consecutive years on the dean’s list. A proven track record of executing innovative academic projects within the computer science field exploring AI and ML. Seeking the Morgan Technology Scholarship to continue pursuing a bachelor’s degree at the University of Washington.

Academic Experience

Computer Science Major, University of Washington, Seattle, WA| September 2022 – June 2024

• Achieved recognition as a finalist in the Technovation Competition for a project exploring novel methods for training AI using deep learning and semi-supervised learning techniques
• Executed an academic project to build a calendar management mobile application with a UX design centered on improving accessibility for senior citizens
• Achieved a 3.96 GPA over four semesters and two dean’s list awards

High School Student , Seattle Central High School | September 2018 – June 2022

• Achieved a 760 score in the Silver Division of the USA Computing Olympiad in 2022
• Maintained a 3.92 grade point average, served as a member of the National Honor Society, and led the Seattle Central High School Computer Science Club
• Software development
• Application development
• Technology innovation

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Computer Science University of Washington, Seattle, WA | Expected 2026

• Dean’s list | 2022 – 2024

High School Diploma Seattle Central High School, Seattle, WA | 2022

• USA Computing Olympiad Silver Division | 2022

This scholarship resume is effective because it explores the candidate’s unique academic achievements within the computer science field at both the high school and college levels. The document shows that the applicant has a genuine passion for technology and has continually gone above and beyond to excel.

To write an effective scholarship resume, start by organizing your academic accomplishments, extracurriculars, and volunteer experience. Scholarship applications are evaluated based on a wide range of factors, but highlighting these aspects of your background is the best way to differentiate yourself from other candidates. Below, we’ll walk you through each step of the resume writing process.

1. Write a dynamic profile summarizing your qualifications

With the sheer number of candidates applying for scholarship programs, it’s essential to make a strong first impression on the reader. Introduce yourself and explain your academic goal. In the subsequent sentences, emphasize impressive accomplishments that demonstrate why you’re deserving of this opportunity.

For example, if you consistently achieved high grades, start by featuring your grade point average and academic awards. If you excelled in an extracurricular activity such as sports, theater, or music, display these achievements in your summary.

Strong Profile Example

A college student with a 3.96 GPA and two consecutive years on the dean’s list. A proven track record of executing innovative academic projects within the computer science field exploring artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). Seeking the Morgan Technology Scholarship to continue pursuing a bachelor’s degree at the University of Washington.

Weak Profile Example

A college student with an excellent GPA and a strong work ethic. Passionate about computer science and academia. Seeking the Morgan Technology Scholarship.

2. Add an accomplishment-driven professional experience section

In a scholarship resume, your content needs to be centered around your most impressive academic achievements, extracurriculars, and community service contributions. It’s impossible to know the exact preferences of any individual scholarship review board, so focus on emphasizing key aspects of your high school and college career that can help you stand out from other applicants.

Strong Academic Experience Example

Computer Science Major, University of Washington, Seattle, WA | September 2022 – June 2024

• Executed an academic project to build a calendar management mobile application with a user experience (UX) design centered on improving accessibility for senior citizens

Weak Academic Experience Example

• Completed difficult computer science courses and projects on time
• Maintained a high GPA over four semesters
• Worked well with professors and fellow students in the computer science program

3. Include relevant education and academic awards

Feature your high school degree and any relevant academic awards you’ve garnered on your scholarship resume. Be sure to mention your GPA and any other academic distinctions that can bolster the strength of your application. You could also feature memberships in extracurricular clubs, organizations, or honor societies in this section.

• [Degree Name]
• [School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] | [Graduation Year]
• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Computer Science
• University of Washington, Seattle, WA | Expected 2026
• Dean’s list | 2022 – 2024
• High School Diploma
• Seattle Central High School, Seattle, WA | 2022

4. List pertinent key skills

It’s unlikely that a university or scholarship board will be using an applicant tracking system (ATS) to identify candidates during the selection process, so you won’t need to optimize your document for keywords. That said, still provide a list of your most impressive skill sets on your scholarship resume. Below, you’ll find a range of different key skills to consider adding to your document:

How To Pick The Best Scholarship Resume Template

To send the right message to the scholarship board, you need a professional resume template that organizes and presents your information effectively. Avoid formats that are overly reliant on visual elements, as this might draw the reader’s eye away from your academic achievements and extracurricular activities. Opt for a straightforward template with a top-down structure that displays each section of your scholarship resume in a sequence.

Frequently Asked Questions: Scholarship Resume Examples and Advice

What are common action verbs for scholarship resumes -.

Incorporating action verbs can add a unique and engaging element to your bullet points. That said, it’s easy to use the same words repeatedly during the resume-building process. We’ve compiled a list of action verbs to diversify your language and enhance the impact of your resume content.

How do you align your resume with a scholarship description? -

Adjusting your resume to match the scholarship you’re applying for is the best way to strengthen your application. As you begin building your content, start by researching the organization and what they’re looking for in a scholarship recipient. Feature key aspects of your background that match that description.

For example, if a university values students with extensive community service experience, emphasize these projects and initiatives heavily on your scholarship resume. If an organization is primarily interested in extracurricular activities, make those the focal point of your document. By tailoring your resume to each application, you’ll maximize your odds of receiving the scholarship.

What is the best scholarship resume format? -

A combination format is generally best suited for a scholarship resume, as it’s unlikely that your work history will be a key factor in the application. This allows you to reorder your education, volunteer experience, skills, and academic achievements depending on the scholarship. A reverse chronological approach can be considered if you have an impressive internship or relevant work experience you think is valuable.

Craft your perfect resume in minutes

Get 2x more interviews with Resume Builder. Access Pro Plan features for a limited time!

Most scholarship applications will require a matching cover letter. To make a strong impression on the reader, explore unique aspects of your background that you wouldn’t normally include on a resume. For example, you could explore your cultural background and personal challenges you’ve overcome. You might also convey why you’re passionate about a particular academic field, sport, or extracurricular activity. For additional information, visit our internship cover letter guide .

Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

Check out Related Examples

College Student Resume Examples and Templates

High School Student Resume Examples and Templates

Student Resume Examples and Templates

Build a Resume to Enhance Your Career

• How To Include Extracurriculars on an Entry-Level Resume Learn More
• How To Include Personal and Academic Projects on Your Resume Learn More
• Should You Include Hobbies and Interests on Your Resume? Learn More

Essential Guides for Your Job Search

• How to Write a Resume Learn More
• How to Write a Cover Letter Learn More
• Thank You Note Examples Learn More
• Resignation Letter Examples Learn More

Tips on how to write a winning resume

Her insights and tips are specifically tailored for students like you who are on the brink of graduation and ready to step into the professional world. Whether you’re preparing for your first job or exploring new opportunities, this blog will help you turn your academic achievements into a powerful career tool. So, get ready to transform your resume and set yourself up for success—let’s dive in!

What to put in a resume

Do include:.

Crafting the perfect resume can seem like a daunting task, but breaking it down into key sections makes it much more manageable. Your resume is a reflection of your personal brand, so it’s important to highlight what sets you apart from the rest. Let’s dive into the essentials.

In today’s fast-paced world of technology and AI, having a comprehensive CV that covers all your basic experience and qualifications is crucial. Think of this CV as a foundation or guideline you can customise for each job application. Make sure it showcases your core skills and experiences in a clear, accessible way.

To make your resume stand out, incorporate relevant keywords related to the job you’re applying for. While keeping a professional tone, don’t be afraid to add a touch of creativity to differentiate yourself from other candidates. Finding the right balance between professionalism and personal flair will help grab the attention of employers.

Most importantly, use your resume to tell your story rather than leaving it to the employer’s imagination. Clearly explain your roles and responsibilities in past positions, and address any employment gaps—whether they were for starting a family, travelling, or pursuing other interests. These gaps can offer valuable insights into who you are and could be exactly what an employer is looking for.

Be aware of the relevancy and length of your CV. Think about how you can create distinct and relevant information that aligns with who you are as a professional and the advertisement that will set you apart.

Don’t include:

It’s a good idea to leave out personal details like your gender, religion, or race from your resume. Why? Because it helps keep the focus on your skills and qualifications, not on things that could unintentionally influence the hiring process. By sticking to your professional accomplishments and experiences, you give yourself a fair shot and make sure your application is evaluated based on what you bring to the table. It’s all about keeping things straightforward and fair!

It’s also best not to include overly generic phrases or exaggerations about your skills and achievements. Instead, focus on providing clear, relevant information that highlights your qualifications and makes you stand out for the right reasons.

By honing in on these key elements, you’re making the hiring manager’s job a whole lot easier. Imagine your resume as a well-organised toolbox: each section is neatly labelled, so they can quickly find exactly what they’re looking for. When you clearly showcase your skills, experience, and accomplishments, the hiring manager can swiftly see why you’re a great fit for the role. Plus, by tailoring your resume to each job, you’re showing them you’ve put in the effort to match their needs. It’s like giving them a sneak peek at how you’ll shine in their organisation, making it easy for them to envision you as a valuable addition to their team.

How to highlight employment, qualifications and accomplishments

To effectively highlight your employment, qualifications, and experience on your resume, focus on using keywords that are both easily accessible and eye-catching. You want to ensure that hiring managers can quickly see where you excel without having to dig through your resume.

Organise your information in a clear, concise manner, emphasising the most relevant details that align with the job you’re applying for. By prioritising relevance over length, you make sure that every piece of information you include directly supports your candidacy for the position, making your resume not only informative but also engaging and straightforward.

Types of resumes

In today’s job market, there are numerous resume formats you can use to impress potential employers. Deciding what resume style to submit should reflect the job you are applying for.

For example, if you are applying to the media production industry, you may pursue a creative video resume to further showcase your skills in video production and creativity. On the other hand, if you were applying for a government job that requires several higher education degrees and qualifications, a more detailed Here are some of the most popular types:

• Chronological resume : These resumes follow your experience over the years and show a clear career progression and are ideal if you have a solid work history in a specific field.
• Functional resume : Focused more on skills and qualifications rather than work history, this format highlights your abilities and achievements. It’s useful if you’re changing careers or have gaps in your employment.
• Targeted resume : Tailored specifically for a particular job or industry, this resume focuses on the skills and experiences most relevant to the position you’re applying for. It demonstrates that you’ve customized your application to meet the job requirements.
• Infographic resume : For a more creative approach, an infographic resume uses visual elements like charts and graphics to present your skills and achievements. It’s a great way to stand out, especially in design or creative fields, but be cautious to ensure it’s still easy to read and professional.
• Portfolio resume : Ideal for those in creative fields, this type includes a link to your online portfolio or samples of your work. It’s a great way to showcase your skills through actual examples of your projects. Portfolio resumes are typical for jobs such as marketing, & graphic design.
• Video resume : This modern format allows you to present your qualifications and personality through a short video. It’s an engaging way to make an impression, but make sure it’s professionally done and appropriate for the industry you’re applying to. A video resume could be submitted in addition to a chronological or functional resume to help a candidate stand out amongst other candidates.

Tips for crafting the perfect resume

Crafting the perfect resume can be a game-changer in your job search, helping you stand out in a crowded field. To set yourself up for success, keep these essential tips in mind to make your resume clear, compelling, and tailored to each opportunity.

• Use eye catching keywords
• Keep it relevant
• Highlight you achievements
• Tailor your resume to the job you are applying for
• Be original
• Ensure your resume is a reflection of you
• Identify what sets you apart

Written by:

Melissa Waller, Bachelor of Business (Marketing) Student, Torrens University Australia

Related articles.

Looking to captivate with TikTok and YouTube shorts? Key video tips for hoteliers

Hotel remodeling and renovations: 5 tips to transform your hotel into a luxurious haven

Social media marketing tips for smart hoteliers

Hospitality industry’s new tipping system: what you need to know

Related courses.

You might also like:

The Mille Club: exploring SoCal luxury at El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel

Beyond small talk: deep networking techniques for introverts

Going beyond the room to meet new hotel guest expectations

What can search engine optimization do for your brand?

Hotels can still benefit from Google Hotel Ads Pay Per Stay

Join over 60,000 industry leaders.

Receive daily leadership insights and stay ahead of the competition.

Leading solution providers:

OTA Savings by x·quic™

Softbank Robotics