6 High School Resume Examples (With Highlights and Analysis) for 2025

Creating a high school resume can be a daunting task, especially for students who are just beginning to enter the job market or apply for college. A well-crafted resume is essential as it provides a structured and clear way to showcase a student’s unique skills, experiences, and accomplishments. High school students often feel they lack sufficient work experience to include on a resume, but there are various sections that can highlight their qualifications, such as involvement in extracurricular activities, volunteering, and notable academic achievements.

A high school resume serves multiple purposes: it aids in college applications, scholarships, internships, part-time jobs, and other opportunities. This guide offers six exemplary high school resume examples along with an analysis of their highlights. These examples demonstrate how students can effectively present their qualifications and stand out to prospective schools or employers. Through this guide, students will learn the essential components of a high school resume, including sections to include, format and design tips, and specific highlights from each example.

Key Sections to Include in a High School Resume

When drafting a high school resume, it is important to include key sections that collectively present a comprehensive picture of the student’s abilities and experiences. The important sections to consider include:

1. Contact Information: Full name, address, phone number, and email address.
2. Objective Statement: A brief statement outlining the student’s career goals and what they aim to accomplish.
3. Education: The name of the school, expected graduation date, GPA (if it’s strong), relevant coursework, and any academic honors.
4. Work Experience: Part-time jobs, internships, and other paid work experiences. Include job titles, company names, dates of employment, and key responsibilities.
5. Extracurricular Activities: Clubs, sports teams, school organizations, and leadership roles. Highlight any special achievements or responsibilities.
6. Volunteer Experience: Non-paid work with charities, community groups, or religious organizations.
7. Skills: Specific skills related to the job or college program, such as technical skills, language proficiency, or certifications.
8. Certifications & Awards: Relevant certifications, academic accomplishments, and awards.
9. Hobbies & Interests (optional): Any personal interests or hobbies that might be relevant or help display a well-rounded personality.

By including these sections, students ensure that their resumes cover various aspects of their high school careers, demonstrating not just academic prowess but also a range of personal qualities and experiences that make them well-suited for their future opportunities.

Related

How to Make a Resume in 2025 (With Examples & Tips)

Resume Format and Design Tips for High School Students

Creating a visually appealing and well-structured resume is crucial for capturing the attention of admissions officers or potential employers. Here are some essential formatting and design tips for high school students:

1. Keep It Simple and Professional: Avoid overly complicated or flashy designs. Stick to a clean, professional layout with plenty of white space to make the resume easy to read.
2. Use a Standard Font: Stick to classic fonts like Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri. Ensure the font size is between 10 to 12 points, making it readable without overwhelming the reader.
3. Consistent Formatting: Maintain uniformity in the formatting. Use the same font style and size throughout the resume. Ensure that headings, subheadings, and bullet points are consistent in their appearance.
4. Bullet Points for Readability: Use bullet points to break down information into manageable sections. This makes it easier for the reader to digest key points quickly.
5. Bold Headers and Subheaders: Use bold text for headers and subheaders to clearly delineate different sections of the resume. This helps in organizing the content logically.
6. Reverse Chronological Order: List experiences and achievements in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent. This ensures that the most current accomplishments are highlighted first.
7. One Page in Length: As a high school student, aim to keep your resume to one page. This concision is essential as it demonstrates the ability to communicate relevant information succinctly.
8. Use Action Verbs: Begin each bullet point with strong action verbs such as “developed,” “led,” “organized,” or “achieved.” This adds dynamism and clarity to your accomplishments.
9. Proofread Thoroughly: Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. A polished resume reflects attention to detail and professionalism.
10. Personalization: Tailor your resume for each opportunity. Adjust the objective statement and highlight specific skills or experiences that align with the job or college application requirements.

By following these formatting and design tips, high school students can create a strong, professional resume that effectively showcases their qualifications and makes a positive impression.

Example 1: First-time Job Seeker’s Resume

Resume Highlights:

This example is designed for a high school student who is seeking their first job. The key highlight of this resume is its focus on transferable skills and potential rather than job experience. Here’s a breakdown of the sections and the strengths they showcase:

• Objective Statement: The resume starts with a clear and concise objective statement that outlines the student’s enthusiasm for gaining work experience and contributing to the team. For instance, “Motivated and hardworking high school junior seeking a part-time job in the retail industry to develop customer service skills and contribute to a dynamic team environment.”
• Education: This section includes the name of the school, current GPA, and any relevant coursework that might appeal to a potential employer. Listing honors classes or specific subjects like “Advanced Math” and “Honors English” can add depth and show a commitment to education.
• Extracurricular Activities: Given the lack of work experience, extracurricular activities take a prominent place. This section highlights involvement in clubs, sports teams, and school organizations. For example, participation in “Student Council” demonstrates leadership skills, while being a member of the “Debate Team” shows strong communication abilities.
• Volunteer Experience: Volunteering provides an excellent substitute for paid work experience. It demonstrates a strong work ethic and community involvement. A role such as “Volunteer at Local Food Bank” illustrates dedication and organizational skills.
• Skills: This section includes both soft and hard skills that are relevant to the job. A first-time job seeker could highlight skills such as “Effective Communication,” “Time Management,” “Quick Learner,” and “Basic Computer Skills.”
• Awards and Certifications: Any relevant awards, such as “Perfect Attendance,” “Honor Roll,” or certifications like “First Aid/CPR” help to round out the resume and add credibility.

Analysis:

The main strength of this example is its ability to leverage non-work experiences to showcase the student’s potential. By focusing on skills, extracurricular activities, and volunteer work, the resume compensates for the lack of professional experience and still presents a compelling case to an employer. Consistent formatting and use of bullet points make it easy to read, while the tailored objective statement immediately sets the tone for the candidate’s goals and determination.

This type of resume can help a student stand out by emphasizing their preparedness for a professional environment through their proactive involvement in school and community projects. It’s also crucial because it provides evidence of soft skills and personal attributes sought by many entry-level employers.

By examining specific highlights from this example, students can understand how to construct a resume that effectively showcases their abilities and future potential. The emphasis on non-work experiences ensuring the resume remains robust is especially significant for those just entering the job market.

Example 2: Student Involvement and Extracurricular Activities

Resume Highlights:

This example caters to a student who has extensively participated in extracurricular activities and takes advantage of diverse opportunities to build leadership and teamwork skills. Here’s a breakdown of the sections and the strengths they showcase:

• Objective Statement: A tailored objective statement reflects the student’s enthusiasm for maximizing their leadership and teamwork abilities through further involvement. For instance, “Driven and highly involved high school senior seeking a role that allows me to leverage my leadership and organizational skills fostered through extensive involvement in extracurricular activities.”
• Education: This section includes the school name, expected graduation date, GPA, and coursework that highlights a balance between academic commitments and extracurricular engagement. Mentioning advanced courses like “AP History” or “Physics Honors” demonstrates academic rigor.
• Extracurricular Activities: This section forms the core of the resume, highlighting participation and leadership roles in various clubs and organizations. Leadership roles such as “President of the Student Government” or “Captain of the Soccer Team” exemplify responsibility and the ability to manage and motivate others. Being part of groups like the “National Honor Society” or “Drama Club” showcases versatility and a well-rounded character.
• Volunteer Experience: Volunteering illustrates a commitment to community and social responsibility. Specific roles, such as “Organized Community Clean-Up Events” or “Mentored Younger Students in After-school Programs,” highlight initiative and mentoring abilities.
• Skills: Skills gleaned from extracurricular participation, such as “Team Leadership,” “Conflict Resolution,” “Event Planning,” and “Public Speaking,” are emphasized. These skills are directly transferable to job or college environments.
• Awards and Certifications: Awards in this context might include “Best Delegate in Model UN,” “MVP of the Basketball Team,” or “President’s Volunteer Service Award,” which underline the student’s excellence and recognition in both academic and extracurricular pursuits.

Analysis:

The strength of this resume lies in its clear illustration of the student’s proactive engagement beyond the classroom. Highlighting leadership positions within extracurricular activities and the ability to balance them with academic commitments showcases a comprehensive skill set. Effective use of action verbs and bullet points enhances readability and impact.

This type of resume appeals to both college admissions officers and potential employers, emphasizing the candidate’s commitment to personal development and multidimensional involvement. It serves as a testament to the student’s ability to manage time efficiently, lead groups, and contribute meaningfully to team efforts, offering robust examples of character and capability without relying solely on formal work experience.

Example 3: Academic Achievements and Awards

Resume Highlights:

This example focuses on a high school student whose primary strengths lie in academic achievements and numerous awards. Here’s a breakdown of the sections and the strengths they showcase:

• Objective Statement: The objective statement underscores the student’s passion for academic excellence and eagerness to further their education or enter a role that values intellectual growth. For instance, “Dedicated and academically driven high school senior seeking opportunities to leverage my strong educational background and analytical skills to contribute positively to a college program or entry-level position.”
• Education: This section is prominent, listing the school name, expected graduation date, GPA, and noteworthy coursework. Highlighting a high GPA or advanced coursework in subjects like “AP Calculus,” “AP Chemistry,” “Honors Biology,” and “Advanced Literature” showcases the student’s academic rigor and wide-ranging intellectual interests.
• Academic Achievements: This section enumerates specific achievements such as “National Merit Scholar,” “Top 5% of Graduating Class,” and “Dean’s List.” Further distinctions such as “Valedictorian” or “Salutatorian” can provide additional instances of academic excellence.
• Extracurricular Activities: Though the focus is on academics, this section includes participation in academically oriented extracurricular activities. Roles in the “Math Club,” “Science Olympiad,” or being a member of the “Debate Team” reinforce the student’s commitment to intellectual pursuits beyond the classroom.
• Skills: The skills section pertains to academic strengths and capabilities that are valuable in higher education and beyond. Skills such as “Analytical Thinking,” “Critical Writing,” “Research Proficiency,” “Data Analysis,” and “Problem Solving” are highlighted.
• Awards and Certifications: This section is robust, listing a variety of awards that underline the student’s excellence and dedication. Relevant awards include “National Honor Society Member,” “Regional Science Fair Winner,” “Essay Contest Winner,” and “AP Scholar with Distinction.”

Analysis:

The main strength of this example is its detailed depiction of the student’s academic prowess and the acknowledgment they have received. The emphasis on academic achievements and awards effectively communicates the student’s dedication to their studies and their competency in various subject areas. Through clear and precise sections, this resume leaves a strong impression on college admissions officers or employers in fields that value academic excellence.

This resume style benefits students aiming for academic scholarships, higher education programs, or academically oriented jobs and internships. It portrays a focused narrative centered on the student’s intellectual capabilities and achievements, ensuring that their dedication to learning and succeeding is at the forefront. Using this template, students can successfully demonstrate their scholarly strengths and make a compelling case for their future ambitions.

Example 4: Part-time Work Experience

Resume Highlights:

This example is ideal for high school students who have balanced their studies with part-time work. Here’s a breakdown of the sections and the strengths they showcase:

• Objective Statement: The resume begins with an objective statement that reflects the student’s commitment to managing both their academic and work responsibilities effectively. For example, “Enthusiastic and diligent high school junior with part-time work experience seeking to utilize my strong work ethic and organizational skills in a challenging role.”
• Education: This section includes the school name, expected graduation date, GPA, and any notable classes. Relevant coursework such as “Business Studies,” “Economics,” or “Computer Applications” supports the student’s readiness for the workforce.
• Work Experience: Highlight the part-time positions held, including job titles, company names, and dates of employment. Key responsibilities and achievements should be clearly outlined in bullet points. For instance, a role like “Sales Associate at Retail Store” might include tasks such as “Provided excellent customer service to increase sales by 15%,” “Managed inventory and restocked shelves,” and “Assisted in training new employees.”
• Extracurricular Activities: Even with a focus on part-time work, involvement in extracurricular activities can be included to show a well-rounded candidate. Participation in student government, clubs, or teams demonstrates leadership and teamwork skills.
• Skills: The skills section would reflect competencies gained through work experience, such as “Customer Service,” “Time Management,” “Cash Handling,” “Team Collaboration,” and “Problem Solving.”
• Awards and Certifications: This section can include honors and any relevant certifications like “Employee of the Month,” “Customer Service Excellence Award,” or certifications from work-related training programs.

Analysis:

The strength of this resume lies in its ability to showcase the student’s real-world work experience, highlighting their capability to balance school and job responsibilities. The sections are structured to emphasize practical skills and on-the-job achievements that are directly transferable to future employment opportunities or college applications.

Focusing on part-time work experience demonstrates a high level of responsibility, reliability, and the ability to manage time effectively. This type of resume appeals to employers looking for candidates who have proven their ability to perform in real-world settings and manage multiple commitments. It also conveys a strong work ethic and the ability to thrive in dynamic environments, making it a powerful tool for students looking to secure future job roles or internships.

By dissecting the component highlights of this example, students can craft resumes that clearly articulate their practical job experience, making a compelling case for their ability to contribute effectively in professional settings.

Example 5: Volunteer Work and Community Service

Resume Highlights:

This example spotlights a high school student who has demonstrated a commitment to serving their community through extensive volunteer work. Here’s a breakdown of the sections and the strengths they showcase:

• Objective Statement: The resume initiates with an objective statement that encapsulates the student’s dedication to community service and their desire to continue making meaningful contributions. For instance, “Compassionate and community-oriented high school senior seeking opportunities to utilize my volunteer experience in roles that promote social responsibility and community engagement.”
• Education: This section includes the name of the school, expected graduation date, GPA, and coursework. Courses like “Social Studies,” “Ethics,” and “Environmental Science” that align with community service can be highlighted to demonstrate academic interest in social matters.
• Volunteer Experience: The centerpiece of this resume is an extensive listing of volunteer roles. Include the organization names, dates of service, and a description of the responsibilities and achievements. For example, roles such as “Volunteer Coordinator at Local Animal Shelter” and “Event Organizer for Community Food Drives” highlight leadership, organization, and dedication to charitable causes. Duties could include “Coordinated weekly volunteer schedules,” “Organized outreach and awareness events,” and “Successfully increased local donations by 25%.”
• Extracurricular Activities: This section can show participation in school clubs that align with volunteerism, such as “Environmental Club,” “Interact Club,” or “Peer Mentoring Program.” This illustrates how the student integrates their passion for service into various aspects of their school life.
• Skills: Skills acquired through volunteer experiences such as “Project Management,” “Community Outreach,” “Event Planning,” “Team Coordination,” and “Public Speaking” are emphasized. These skills demonstrate versatility and a proactive approach to making a difference.
• Awards and Certifications: This section can list recognitions related to volunteerism and community service, like “Community Service Award,” “Volunteer of the Year,” or certifications such as “Certified Peer Educator.”

Analysis:

The strength of this resume lies in its clear emphasis on the student’s commitment to community service and the tangible impact of their volunteer work. Highlighting specific volunteer roles and achievements not only showcases dedication but also paints a picture of a well-rounded individual who believes in giving back to the community.

This resume appeals to community-focused employers and college programs that prioritize social responsibility and civic engagement. It effectively elevates the student’s profile by demonstrating a deep-rooted dedication to volunteerism, highlighting both personal growth and substantial contributions to societal welfare. By focusing on community service, this resume can open doors to opportunities that value altruism and proactive social engagement.

Example 6: Technical Skills and Certifications

Resume Highlights:

This example is tailored for high school students who have gained significant technical skills and certifications through internships, coursework, or self-study. Here’s a breakdown of the sections and the strengths they showcase:

• Objective Statement: The resume opens with an objective statement that emphasizes the student’s technical proficiency and eagerness to apply their skills in real-world scenarios. For example, “Technically proficient and detail-oriented high school senior seeking an internship in the tech industry to leverage my advanced technical skills and certifications in a professional environment.”
• Education: In this section, the student lists the name of the school, expected graduation date, GPA, and relevant coursework. Courses such as “AP Computer Science,” “Robotics,” “Engineering,” or “Information Technology” demonstrate the student’s strong foundation in technical subjects.
• Technical Skills: A prominent section dedicated to listing the student’s technical competencies. Skills such as “Programming Languages (Python, Java, C++),” “Web Development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript),” “Database Management (SQL),” “Network Configuration,” and “Software Proficiency (Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office)” are included to illustrate a broad technical skillset.
• Certifications: This section outlines specific certifications that validate the student’s technical expertise. Certifications such as “CompTIA A+,” “Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA),” “Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS),” “Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH),” and “Adobe Certified Expert” highlight the student’s commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
• Extracurricular Activities: Participation in tech-related clubs or competitions is highlighted here. Roles such as “President of the Coding Club,” “Member of the Robotics Team,” or participation in hackathons and technology fairs showcase leadership and practical application of technical knowledge.
• Projects: A project section can further demonstrate the student’s hands-on experience. Descriptions of personal or group projects such as “Developed a mobile app to help students manage homework assignments,” “Built a custom PC,” or “Created a personal website portfolio” provide concrete examples of technical skills in action.
• Volunteer Experience: Including volunteer work related to technology, such as “Volunteered as an IT support assistant at a local community center” or “Conducted coding workshops for younger students,” highlights the student’s willingness to share their technical knowledge and contribute to their community.

Analysis:

The strength of this resume is its detailed presentation of the student’s technical capabilities and the validation of those skills through certifications and projects. This focused approach effectively communicates the student’s technical proficiency and readiness to apply their knowledge in a professional or academic setting.

This type of resume appeals to tech companies, internships, and college programs that prioritize technical skills and innovation. By demonstrating specific technical competencies and certifications, students can showcase their preparedness for advanced studies or entry-level positions in technology-related fields. The emphasis on projects and hands-on experience further underscores the student’s capability to execute technical tasks, making them a valuable asset to any tech-focused team.

Conclusion and Additional Resources for Writing High School Resumes

Crafting a compelling and effective high school resume is an essential step for students seeking to showcase their skills, experiences, and accomplishments for various opportunities. Whether aiming for college admission, scholarships, part-time jobs, or internships, a well-structured resume can make a significant difference. The six examples provided in this guide illustrate various approaches to highlighting key strengths and achievements, offering valuable insights for students with diverse backgrounds and aspirations.

To assist further, here are additional resources for writing high school resumes:

1. Resume Templates: Utilize free high school resume templates available online to get started. Websites like Canva, ResumeGenius, and Indeed offer customizable templates tailored specifically for students.
2. Career Services: Many schools have career services or guidance counselors who can provide personalized advice and review your resume. Take advantage of these resources for professional feedback.
3. Online Resume Builders: Platforms like Zety, Resume.com, and MyPerfectResume offer step-by-step guidance and tools to create polished resumes.
4. Books and Guides: Books such as “Resume Writing for High School Students” by Eileen K. Dillon or “The Complete Guide to Writing a High School Resume” offer in-depth tips and examples.
5. Workshops and Webinars: Participate in workshops or webinars on resume writing. Many non-profits and community organizations offer free resume-building workshops for students.
6. Peer Review: Ask teachers, mentors, or peers to review your resume. Different perspectives can help identify areas for improvement and highlight strengths you may have overlooked.

By leveraging these resources, students can refine their resumes to effectively convey their unique attributes and readiness for their next steps. A well-crafted resume is a foundational tool that can open doors to numerous opportunities, setting the stage for future success.