resume writing for students

Student Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

Whether you just graduated college or you’re taking a gap year before continuing your studies, one thing is for sure.

You’re looking for a job.

All that’s standing between you and your next position is a great resume.

But how can you write a resume that stands out from the crowd if all your experience so far is studying?

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Creating a compelling resume to help you stand out from the crowd is easy, even if you’re just starting on your career journey.

And in this guide, we’re going to teach you how. 

Here’s what we’re going to cover:

• What Makes a Great Student Resume Example
• 9 Steps to Writing an Amazing Student Resume
• What to Include In Your Student Resume

Ready? Let’s dive in!

Student Resume Example

That’s a great example of a student resume.

Let’s get into the ins and outs of what it does right:

• Keeps everything on one page. Hiring managers go through hundreds of resumes daily, so it’s important to stick to a one-page resume so they don’t discard your application straight away.
• Uses a reverse-chronological resume format. This is the favorite resume format for hiring managers worldwide since it puts your most recent achievements and experiences first.
• Includes professional contact details. This section should always contain your full name, a professional email address, phone number, location, and any relevant links to professional websites or social media profiles that might boost your application.
• Starts with an eye-catching resume objective. To grab the hiring manager’s attention, this student resume example starts with a strong resume objective to convey their top skills and their professional goal.
• Lists education first. Since this candidate is a recent graduate, their student resume places their education section at the very top and provides details on the relevant courses they’ve taken.
• Focuses on skills. The student resume example pictured above includes a tailored skills section that aligns with the job and shows what they can do for the employer.
• Organizes text in bullet points. This resume uses bullet points instead of large paragraphs, so the content of the resume is organized and easy to read.
• Includes optional sections. The candidate leverages optional sections such as languages and personal projects to add more value to their resume and stand out from other applicants with similar skills and qualifications.

9 Steps Toward the Perfect Student Resume

Now you know what an excellent student resume looks like.

It’s time to create your own.

First things first, let’s go over all the sections your resume should include .

The essential sections of a student resume are:

• Contact Information
• Resume Headline
• Work Experience

If you have leftover space on your resume, you can also use some of the following sections to make your application stand out:

Extracurricular Activities

• Personal Projects

Hobbies and Interests

• Volunteering
• Certificates

Awards and Recognitions

Publications.

As a student or recent graduate, don’t expect to include all of these sections in your resume. Instead, use them to your advantage. 

For example, you might not have any work experience, in which case you can replace that section with something else, such as an internship that helped you hone some essential skills for the job you're applying to.

We’ve split the process of creating your student resume into easy-to-follow steps, starting with:

#1. Pick the Right Format

Before you can fill out your resume, you need to decide on the best format for your job application.

There are three resume formats you can choose from:

• Reverse-chronological (also known as the chronological format)
• Functional (also known as the skill-based format)
• Combination (a mix of the reverse-chronological and functional formats)

For 99% of cases, we recommend that you choose the reverse-chronological resume format when making your student resume.

The reverse-chronological format is the most practical, since it lists your most recent experience and achievements first, making it the perfect format when you’re applying for a job.

It’s also hiring managers’ favorite format worldwide, so it’s what they expect to see in your application.

Here’s an example of what the reverse-chronological resume format looks like:

#2. Pay Attention to the Layout

Now that you have the formatting out of the way, it’s time to consider your resume’s layout .

Before the hiring manager reads your resume, they’re going to look at it. And if they see a messy, unorganized document, they aren’t going to be impressed.

Follow these tips to make sure your student resume makes a good first impression:

• Keep it on one page. A good resume should never exceed one page, especially if you’re a student with limited experience. Hiring managers only want the most important details about why you’re the right person for the job.
• Set the line spacing. Make sure your text is easy to read by setting appropriate line spacing. Use 1.0 between text and 1.15 between double lines and after subheadings.
• Adjust the page margins. To make your resume look neat, set your resume’s margins to one inch on all sides of the page. Otherwise, you might end up with a stretched-out or empty-looking document.
• Choose a professional font. Another important aspect of your resume is the font. Pick something professional but not overused. Instead of Times New Roman, go for something understated like Roboto, Lora, or Ubuntu.
• Save it to the right file format. Unless the hiring manager asks for another format, your resume should always be saved as a PDF file . This way, your student resume’s layout is going to look the same across any device or software that the hiring manager uses to open it.

Use a Professional Resume Template Instead

Getting the format and layout of your resume just right can sure get tricky. 

You’ll have to spend hours tweaking the margins, adjusting font sizes, and fixing the line spacing – all the while having to make sure nothing spills over to page two. 

What if you could skip all the hassle?

Just use one of our free resume templates and create your student resume in minutes.

Each of our professional templates is designed in cooperation with HR professionals from around the world to make sure your application is ATS-friendly, easy to read, and beautiful to look at.

Not to mention, you can choose a resume template that shows off a bit of your personality while adhering to industry standards. 

Just look at how one of our templates compares to a standard text editor resume:

#3. Add Your Contact Information

Once you’re ready to fill in the contents of your student resume, it’s time to start with your contact information.

This usually goes in a designated resume header , so it’s easy for the hiring manager to find it at a glance.

Here’s what to include:

• Full Name. (E.g.: John Smith )
• Professional Title. We recommend matching the title to the job you’re targeting (E.g.: Paralegal) or specifying your education. (E.g.: Graphic Design Graduate )
• Email Address. Use a professional email address, not a quirky handle from your World of Warcraft days. (E.g.: write down [email protected] , not [email protected] )
• Phone Number. If you’re applying abroad, always include the dialing code in front of your phone number.
• Location. The city and state/country are enough information.
• Relevant Links. Any other information, such as a link to your LinkedIn profile, GitHub, or a portfolio website, is optional and depends on the job you’re applying for.

Ultimately, your contact information section is the easiest, yet most crucial, section of your student resume.

If you make a single typo in your email or phone number, the hiring manager won’t be able to reach you, and you’ll miss out on an opportunity.

So, before submitting your resume, make sure to double-check, and even triple-check that everything in this section is up-to-date and accurate.

John Smith - Graphic Design Graduate

+1 907 446 1234

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/john.smith

Fairbanks, Alaska

90744461234

[email protected]

#4. Write a Resume Headline (Summary or Objective)

Hiring managers have to look at countless resumes daily.

So, they won’t spend more than six seconds on each before deciding if it’s worth reading in detail.

This is where a snappy resume summary or objective can make a difference.

Your resume summary or objective is a brief paragraph at the start of your resume that tells hiring managers who you are and what you bring to the table, in just 2-4 sentences.

Depending on your experience, you can take one of two routes:

• Resume summary. If you've got a bit of professional experience under your belt, write a resume summary. It's your chance to give a quick snapshot of your experience, skills, and what you've accomplished so far.
• Resume objective. If you're just starting, a resume objective is the right choice for you. It outlines your skills, any relevant experiences, and your professional goals.

To paint a clearer picture, here’s what a student’s resume summary with more experience might look like:

Recent college graduate with a B.A. in English from University X seeking an entry-level job as a content writer. Previous experience includes working as an English tutor for 2 years at University X, where I worked with 100+ students, helping them improve their essays. Additionally, I managed a personal blog about tech, publishing over 40 articles in the last 3 years.

But if you’re still a student, you probably don’t have a lot of work experience to rely on for your resume summary.

Don’t worry! You can still write a fantastic resume objective, like so:

Enthusiastic recent graduate with a degree in Environmental Science, aiming to secure an entry-level position at Green Solutions Ltd. Experienced in conducting field research and using GIS software through university projects and internships. With a strong passion for sustainability and environmental advocacy, I’m looking to apply academic knowledge in a practical, impactful way.

This goes to show that even without any work experience to leverage, you can still write a job-winning resume .

#5. List Your Education First

While the work experience section is what your resume would usually start with, the rule is reversed when you’re a student or a recent graduate .

If you’re applying for a job in the same field as your education, you want to emphasize the knowledge and skills you’ve gained so far.

So, the less work experience you have, the more detailed your education section should be.

Here’s the most important information that you should include when listing your education :

• Degree Name. (E.g.: BSc in Business Administration )
• University Name. (E.g.: Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania )
• Location. (E.g.: Philadelphia, PA, USA )
• Years Attended. (E.g.: 09/2018 - 06/2022 )

You should always list your degrees in reverse chronological order, starting with your newest degree (such as a Ph.D. or MBA) and ending with your oldest.

Next, there are a ton of optional details that can look great on your student resume. These include:

• Honors and Awards. Your resume is a great place to show off a little. List any awards or acknowledgments you received during your education. (E.g.: Summa Cum Laude )
• Relevant Coursework. List a few courses that are directly related to the job you’re applying for. (E.g.: Pharmacology, Pathophysiology, Surgical Nursing )
• Thesis or Dissertation. We recommend that graduate and post-graduate students include this, especially if applying to research-heavy fields like data science .
• Minor. If you minored in another field and it’s relevant to the job, include it. (E.g.: BA in Political Science, Minor in Economics )
• Grade Point Average. Include your GPA on your resume if it’s impressive. Anything below 3.5 isn’t worth listing.

Here’s an example of what this looks like on a resume:

There’s no need to list your high school education unless it’s the only degree you have.

#6. Expand on Your Work Experience

The first thing hiring managers usually want to see is your work experience section .

It’s probably the most important section of your whole resume, and it’s where you need to wow the hiring manager. Here’s how to format it correctly:

• List jobs in reverse chronological order. Start with your latest work experience and work your way back to older roles. Just don’t go too far back – your part-time job over summer break probably doesn’t belong on your resume.
• Add your exact job title. Be accurate when describing your previous job, and avoid buzzwords . If you were a babysitter , say that instead of trying to be witty and going with ‘toddler whisperer.’
• Include the company details. All you need to add are the most important details, such as the company’s name and location. If it’s not a well-known business, you can describe what it does.
• Specify the employment period. Use the mm/yyyy format throughout your student resume instead of specifying the exact dates you started and quit.
• Mention your responsibilities and achievements. Use several bullet points, no more than 5-6 for your most recent work experience and 2-3 for older roles.

Here’s an example of what that looks like in practice:

What If My Work Experience Isn’t Relevant?

If you’re applying for a job in the field you’ve been studying for, you might have picked up a part-time job while you were a student.

So, you’re probably wondering - is that summer gig you did worth mentioning in your resume?

The answer is yes.

Even if your only work experience so far seemingly has nothing to do with the job you’re applying for, it’s probably better for you to include it.

For example, if you worked as a cashier at your local supermarket and now you’re applying for a job as an accountant , there are enough similarities between the two jobs for you to make a great resume.

Just focus on the transferable skills from your time as a cashier. Both jobs require working with numbers, being good at mathematics, and attention to detail.

Usually, showing you have some work experience is better than presenting a resume with zero work experience.

What If I Don’t Have Any Work Experience?

If you’re still a student or you just graduated, you probably don’t have any work experience to leverage.

Don’t worry - most college students don’t.

But that doesn’t have to stop you from writing a great resume!

Hiring managers know that most candidates applying for entry-level jobs aren’t super experienced, and that’s okay.

So, instead of work experience, you can focus on any of the following sections:

• Internships. If your program included any internships or hands-on experiences, mention them. Internships can be super useful on your resume, especially if they help you develop skills for the position you’re applying for, and they can look better on your resume than any part-time job in an unrelated field.
• Volunteering. Having a cause that you care about and are willing to work for shows hiring managers that you’d be a dedicated employee, and that’s why volunteer work looks great on a resume. Whether you spent some time at a local soup kitchen or just helped collect trash in the parks, you can always mention it in your application.
• Projects. Any project you’ve participated in can go here, so long as it’s relevant to the job. Your graduation thesis, coursework, or personal projects can all make a difference. For example, if you’re an aspiring animator and you make funny flash animations that you upload on YouTube for your friends, that’s always a great addition to a first-time job application .

Here’s an example of a student resume that focuses on volunteer experience and personal projects instead of work experience:

Do you want to join a cause you’re passionate about? Learn how to write a volunteer resume here.

#7. Emphasize Your Relevant Skills

The skills section of your resume should tell the hiring manager what your expertise is and why you’re the perfect candidate for the job.

There are two types of essential skills you can mention:

• Soft skills. These are a mix of social skills, characteristics, and other personal traits. For example, leadership, critical thinking, time management, and so on.
• Hard skills. These are your measurable abilities. So, anything from baking cupcakes to complex coding skills.

Your resume should aim for a mix of both soft and hard skills.

If written correctly, the skill section can look something like this:

Now, when listing skills on your resume, here are a few essential tips to keep in mind:

• List hard skills with experience levels. For each skill you list, you can mention your proficiency, from beginner to expert. This tells the hiring manager how much training you might need if they hire you.
• Keep it relevant and tailored to the job. You might have some awesome and rare skills, but they’re not always going to be useful. Your Photoshop skills won’t make a difference in an application for a job as a writer .
• Include some universal skills. Some skills can be useful anywhere. These include both soft skills (like communication ) and hard skills (like using Microsoft Office or Google Office Suite).
• Back up your skills. Instead of just listing skills as buzzwords (like “critical thinker” or “problem-solving-master”), make sure you prove what you’re saying. Give examples of when you’ve put those skills to good use, such as in your work experience section.

And for a student resume, here are a few of the top skills almost every single employer will value:

• Verbal and Written Communication
• Adaptability
• Punctuality
• Organizational skills
• Flexibility
• Conflict resolution
• Problem-solving abilities
• Time-management

#8. Leverage Optional Sections

So far, we’ve covered the essential information for your student resume.

But if you have any leftover space, there are a few other sections you can add.

Imagine this: the hiring manager has to decide between you and another candidate, but your resumes are nearly identical. You have very similar experiences, backgrounds, and credentials.

This is where some less essential resume sections can tip the scales in your favor.

Optional sections can help you backup your skills and experience and set you apart from candidates with the same professional background as yours.

These sections include:

Are you fluent in more than one language?

If you’re bilingual or even trilingual, you should always mention that in your resume!

Even if the position you’re applying for doesn’t require any specific language skills, it can still come in handy at some point.

Companies are becoming increasingly international, and you never know when you might end up working on a project or a client where you can put your knowledge to good use.

To list languages in your resume , simply write them down and include your proficiency level:

• Intermediate

Optionally, you can also use the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL) or the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) proficiency scales.

And remember - you should never lie about your language skills. You never know when the interviewer might turn out to be fluent in the language you claim to know!

As you might remember from your college application , extracurricular activities look great on a resume.

Different after-school projects and clubs can help you gain practical skills and increase your chances of landing a good job right after college. For example, if you were part of a debate team and you’re applying for a job as a lawyer , that could give your resume a boost.

Some activities, like student council responsibilities, show maturity and leadership skills that would translate well to a work environment. 

Here’s an example of how to list extracurricular activities on your resume :

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES:

Public Speaking Club

Founder and President

09/2018 - 09/2019

• Founded a club to help fellow students improve at public speaking and promote discussion-based events.
• Organized 5+ public speaking lectures.
• Brought in professors from the university and organized 2 speaking workshops.

But regardless of whether they’re related to the job or not, extracurricular activities still show the hiring manager that you’re hard-working and committed.

If you want the hiring manager to get a more well-rounded idea of you as a person, you can include hobbies and interests on your resume .

While this section isn’t going to get you hired, it could tip the scales in your favor.

When the hiring manager is looking at two near-identical resumes from two equally qualified candidates, the deciding factor might come down to something as minor as your personality and interests.

For example, imagine that the company you’re applying to values teamwork and promotes health amongst its employees. If your resume says your hobbies include team sports like basketball, that could convince the hiring manager that you’d be a good cultural fit for their team.

Certifications

The best investment is always in your future, and hiring managers love candidates who do just that.

If you have any extra qualifications or certificates , add them to your resume.

For example, if you graduated with a BA in Marketing, and you’re applying for a Digital Marketing role, that’s great. But it’s even better if the hiring manager sees that you completed an advanced SEO course and that you’re ready to roll!

Do you have a piece of paper with your name on it that says why you’re so smart and qualified? If so, add it to your resume.

It could be an award from a competition or some other recognition of your excellence - academic or otherwise.

For example, you might have been selected for a very rare scholarship , or your hard work as an illustrator won your project a nomination.

You don’t need to be modest on your resume - if you earned something cool, show it off. Any awards can back up your expertise and show the hiring manager that you’re worth a chance.

Have you worked on your university’s student paper? Maybe you’re a freelance writer or a distinguished academic .

Whatever the case is, publications are always impressive on a resume.

Include them under a designated “Publications” section and provide a URL so the hiring manager can check out your work.

#9. Include a Cover Letter

Cover letters are essential for a successful job search , and your student resume won’t be complete without one.

Forbes reports that 56% of hiring managers prefer that applicants include a cover letter with their resume.

Crafting a great cover letter tells the hiring manager that you have an eye for detail and that you’re ready to go the extra mile to join the team. You’re not just randomly sending out the same resume to every job listing you find.

So, to learn how to write your own , let's explore what makes an effective cover letter:

Here are some straightforward tips to make your cover letter great:

• Check your contact information. The information in your cover letter’s header should be the same as what’s on your resume, so double-check for any mistakes.
• Use the hiring manager’s name. A little research can help you find it, and it helps establish a more personal connection than just writing “To Whom It May Concern.”
• Start with a strong opening. Mention a couple of your best skills or achievements right at the start to grab the hiring manager’s attention.
• Go into more detail in the body. Talk about your accomplishments or skills in more detail, and mention anything you couldn’t fit on your resume, like explaining why you want to work remotely .
• Conclude by asking them to reach out. A good closing paragraph includes a call to action that asks the hiring manager to do something, like contact you or arrange an interview.
• Sing it like a professional. Choose an appropriate closing line, like “Best regards” or “I look forward to hearing from you.”

Here’s a great example of a student cover letter :

5 Student Resume Examples

Looking for more resume inspiration?

Check out the different student resume examples below to see what a job-winning resume might look like.

#1. Recent Graduate Resume

#2. Experienced Student Resume

#3. Internship Student Resume

#4. College Freshman Resume

#5. High School Student Resume

Key Takeaways

And there you go!

That’s how you create a powerful student resume from scratch.

Now, let’s quickly summarize what we’ve learned so far:

• Hiring managers go through hundreds of resumes every day, so you want yours to grab their attention immediately. Write a brief paragraph in your resume header to tell them who you are and why you’re perfect for the job.
• Unlike in most resumes, where work experience goes first, if you’re a student, your education should be at the top of your resume.
• Don’t worry if you don’t have any work experience yet - when you’re applying for an entry-level job, hiring managers don’t expect you to.
• Instead of work experience, you can focus on internships, volunteering, personal projects, or extracurricular activities to show off your skills and fill in your resume.
• Your skills could make or break your job application. Research the most in-demand skills for the job you want and list the ones you have in your resume.
• Always add a matching cover letter to your student resume to show the hiring manager you’re ready to go the extra mile for the job.

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

Resume Templates

Resume samples

Create and edit your resume online

Generate compelling resumes with our AI resume builder and secure employment quickly.

Write a cover letter

Cover Letter Examples

Cover Letter Samples

Create and edit your cover letter

Use our user-friendly tool to create the perfect cover letter.

Featured articles

• How to Write a Motivation Letter With Examples
• How to Write a Resume in 2024 That Gets Results
• Teamwork Skills on Your Resume: List and Examples
• What Are the Best Colors for Your Resume?

Latests articles

• Top 5 Tricks to Transform Your LinkedIn Profile With ChatGPT
• Using ChatGPT to Prepare for Interviews: Top Tips and Steps
• How to Create an Effective Cover Letter with ChatGPT
• 10 Jobs in High Demand in 2024: Salaries and Expected Growth

Dive Into Expert Guides to Enhance your Resume

The Student Resume

Create an A+ resume to help you land your first role or acceptance into the college of your dreams.

Resume and Cover Letter Experts

When you are a Student or just finishing up college, it’s normal to have eyes fully on the job market. 

But since you probably haven’t worked a full-time job in your field yet, you might be wondering what do you put on a resume with no experience ? 

If that’s the case, you’ll need to tailor your qualifications with the correct Student resume format, sections, and more. 

In this article, you’ll get tips on:

• How to write a Student resume
• Choosing the best resume format for Students
• Skills and keywords to create your resume
• How to use AI to draft your resume

We’ll also show different student resume examples to give you a better idea of what should be included .

You may be a college or high school Student, but that doesn’t mean you should be rejected for your lack of experience, find out how to make your strengths stand out with our AI resume builder and tips.

Tips for Writing a Student Resume

In a survey done by the American Association of Colleges and Universities, over 80% of employers stated that they believe higher education prepares college graduates for success in the workforce. 

However, they also mention that Students lack skills. 

For that reason, you’ll want to not only focus on your education, but demonstrate that you have some relevant experience and skills . 

Student resumes should be optimized by adding the focus to the following elements if they are relevant to the role you want to apply to and if you lack work experience :

• Awards, honors or sponsorships earned
• Projects developed
• Leadership experience
• Research or internships carried out
• Extra IT or language skills
• Relevant coursework or volunteer experience

For example, here is how you can write a resume summary and mention relevant coursework and experience in a Student resume for a creative director :

Driven College Student with a strong foundation in Graphic Design, Marketing, and Media Studies, enhanced by a hands-on internship at a premier advertising agency where I contributed to a 20% increase in campaign engagement. Proficient in concept development, branding, and digital media, I excel at marrying creative vision with strategic insights. Eager to bring innovative ideas and lead projects to success as a creative director.

What Is the Best Student Resume Format

Depending on if you’re still a high school or College Student, you may want to structure your resume one way or another. 

However, you will want to go with a reverse-chronological order , listing your most recent experience first . 

However, a Student resume layout is somewhat different from the structure of a professional resume , as Students often have little to no work experience.

As a Student, if you don’t have relevant experience, you should put more focus on the following :

• Internships
• Certifications
• Education and GPA (if over 3.5)

With a unique Student resume format , you’re much more likely to attract attention and catch the hiring manager’s eye with your experience and relevant qualities.

Tips for Writing High School Student Resumes

It’s never too early to create a high school Student resume . 

Whether it’s for a summer job or to prepare to start working full-time, there are some basic things to keep in mind. 

• Begin by listing your various achievements, either academic or otherwise and organize them chronologically.
• Add to this list any memberships you’ve had or associations you’ve been a part of, whether social, academic, or athletic.
• Make a note of all your paid and unpaid or voluntary positions, including other less formal work such as babysitting or menial work around your neighborhood.
• Add descriptions to each aspect of your Student resume that explain your responsibilities and highlight any contributions or leadership roles taken.

Here’s how an extracurricular section can look if you apply these tips:

Extracurricular Activities

Student Government Association, Vice President September 2023–June 2023

• Collaborated with school administrators to address concerns of over 80 Students and improve school policies.
• Led organization of school events, including fundraisers, dances, and community service projects.

Tips for Formatting a College Student Resume

If you’re in college, you’ll need a resume ASAP to prepare for your quickly approaching professional life. 

You may be limited in the amount of work experience you have, but that doesn’t mean there’s a shortage of aspects to be considered.

Here are some tips to help you out:

• Include all relevant work experience, whether paid.
•  Put more emphasis on areas of leadership, dedication and participation in projects, clubs or community services.
• Use quantifiable examples in their resume descriptions as a way of demonstrating your worth as an employee for a business.
• Adapt college resumes to the sector or business that you have chosen, by including only relevant experience and skills.

Based on these tips, here’s how you can write your education section :

Bachelor of Science in Marketing University of Arizona, Expected Graduation: May 2025

• GPA: 3.8/4.0
• Relevant Coursework: Consumer Behavior, Digital Marketing Analytics, Brand Management

Resume for College Applications

Some colleges may ask applicants to provide a resume during the admissions process . It is therefore essential to be able to distinguish between a resume to apply for a job and one for entering college.

In both a Student resume for a college application, it is vital to include your work experience , whether through paid work or voluntary positions. 

Some jobs, school role, or volunteer positions colleges love to see on these types of resumes are:

• Community service
• Camp counselor
• Team captain 
• Club member

College application resumes also often include a cover letter or letter of recommendation , scholarship applications or portfolios to give evidence of a Student’s accomplishments.

Using AI to Improve Your Student Resume

It will be obvious to employers that you’re lacking experience since you’re a Student. It can be a bit difficult to know exactly what you can add to your resume sections that will impress recruiters when you don’t have much of a work history. 

With our resume builder that offers AI-created suggestions, you can come up with clever ideas in seconds for how to list your:

• Skills relevant to the position
• Internship and volunteer experience
• Accomplishments

With our editor’s AI-generated suggestions, you’ll be able to make sure that the most important sections in your resume will be clear and highlight ATS keywords .

You can then use our Student resume template to ensure that your resume flows nicely and highlights the skills you need to cover for your lack of experience .

By combining the template with these suggestions, you’ll make the process even simpler .

To win over any hiring manager, you need to play to your strengths. If you keep the tips we’ve mentioned in mind, you’ll give yourself a great chance!

Simply remember to:

• Highlight any relevant internship or research experience
• Focus on your skills and achievements if you have no experience
• Mention volunteer and community work, especially when applying to college
• Use AI to complete your resume

Take advantage of our customizable templates and editor to make sure that your resume is ready to help you land a spot in college or your first professional role.

Struggling with Resume Writing?

Ease the process with our templates

• Career Blog

Student Resume Writing Tips and Examples for 2024

As a student, you may be wondering why having a resume is important. After all, you’re not applying for a job yet, right? Wrong! Your student resume is an essential tool that can help you stand out from other applicants, showcasing your achievements, skills, and potential to potential employers, scholarship committees, and college admission officers. In this article, we will explore the purpose and goals of writing a student resume and provide you with valuable tips and examples to help you craft a compelling and effective document.

Importance of a Student Resume

A student resume can be a powerful tool that highlights your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership skills, community involvement, and other key factors that demonstrate your potential as a candidate. Not only can it help you land internships, part-time jobs, and other opportunities while you’re still in school, but it can also help you stand out when applying to colleges, scholarships, and future job opportunities after graduation.

Furthermore, writing a student resume can help you identify your strengths, set goals, and gain clarity on your career aspirations. By reflecting on your experiences, accomplishments, and values, you can develop a narrative that shows your unique personality, passion, and potential.

Purpose and Goals of the Article

The purpose of this article is to provide you with practical tips and examples to help you create a well-crafted student resume that effectively communicates your qualifications and potential. Specifically, our goals are to:

• Explain the key elements of a successful student resume
• Provide guidance on how to structure your resume and format it for clarity and readability
• Offer tips on how to highlight your strengths and accomplishments, including academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership experience, and community service
• Share insights on how to tailor your resume for different audiences, such as employers, colleges, and scholarship committees
• Offer real-life examples of successful student resumes to inspire and guide you as you create your own document

By following the advice and examples provided in this article, you will be better equipped to craft a powerful and effective student resume that showcases your potential, sets you apart from other candidates, and opens doors to new opportunities.

Understanding the basics of a Resume

Definition and structure of a resume.

A resume is a document that summarizes an individual’s work experience, education, skills, and achievements. It is usually a one or two-page document that is used by job seekers to showcase their qualifications to potential employers.

The key components of a standard resume include:

• Contact information (name, phone number, email address, and location)
• Professional summary or objective
• Work experience (chronological or functional)
• Education (degrees, certifications, and coursework)
• Skills (technical, soft, and language)
• Awards and extracurricular activities (relevant and recent)

The structure of a resume should be clear, concise, and easy to follow. The font type and size, formatting, and spacing should be consistent throughout the document.

Difference between CV and Resume

Although CV (curriculum vitae) and resume are often used interchangeably, they have different meanings and purposes.

A CV is a comprehensive document that lists a person’s academic and professional qualifications, publications, research projects, and teaching experience. It is typically a longer document than a resume and used mainly in academic, medical, or scientific fields.

On the other hand, a resume is a brief summary of a person’s relevant qualifications and work experience, tailored to a specific job opportunity. It is designed to highlight a candidate’s achievements and skills that are most relevant to the particular job.

While a CV provides an exhaustive record of your academic and professional history, a resume is a marketing tool that communicates your relevant skills and experience to potential employers. When applying for job opportunities, it’s important to understand the differences between the two and use each appropriately. ** Preparing for Resume Writing

Before sitting down to write your resume, it’s important to take the time to properly prepare. This involves a few key steps, starting with a self-assessment of your skills and experience.

Self-assessment and skill identification

To start, make a list of all the skills you possess, including hard skills like knowledge of software programs or technical abilities, as well as soft skills like communication and teamwork. Be specific and include examples of how you’ve demonstrated each skill in the past.

Next, consider your experience. List all relevant jobs and internships, along with the duties and responsibilities you had in each role. Also include any volunteer work, extracurricular activities, or leadership positions you’ve held.

By conducting this self-assessment, you’ll not only be better prepared to write your resume, but you’ll also have a better understanding of your own strengths and weaknesses as a candidate.

Researching the Job and the Company

Once you have a clear picture of your own skills and experience, you can begin researching the job and the company you’re applying to. Look at the job description and make note of the key qualifications and responsibilities. Consider how your own experience and skills match up with what the employer is looking for.

You should also research the company itself to gain a better understanding of their values, culture, and overall mission. This information can help you tailor your resume to better align with the company’s goals and objectives.

Tailoring the Resume to the job description

Finally, it’s crucial to tailor your resume to the specific job and company you’re applying to. This involves carefully reviewing the job description and making sure your resume highlights the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position.

This may involve rearranging the order of your resume content, adding new bullet points or details that highlight specific skills, or even creating a new resume entirely. By tailoring your resume to the job description, you’ll increase your chances of standing out as a qualified candidate.

Taking the time to prepare for resume writing involves a self-assessment of your skills and experience, researching the job and company, and tailoring your resume to the specific position. By following these steps, you’ll be better prepared to create a strong, effective resume that showcases your qualifications as a candidate.

Resume Content Guidelines

Crafting a well-written and comprehensive student resume can seem like a daunting task. However, with the right tips and examples, you can easily make your resume stand out from the crowd.

To help you get started, here are some essential content guidelines that you should include in your student resume.

Contact Information Your contact information should always be at the very top of your resume. This includes your full name, phone number, email address, and physical address (optional). Make sure that your email address is professional, and avoid using unprofessional usernames such as “crazyhorse1234.”

Personal Summary Statement Your personal summary statement is a brief paragraph (about 2-3 sentences) that shows your potential employer what you can bring to the table. Here, you can outline your strengths, achievements, and goals. Make sure to keep it concise and to the point.

Education Your education should be highlighted in a clear and concise format. This includes the name of the institution, the degree or certification obtained, and the date of graduation (or expected graduation). Don’t forget to mention your GPA if it’s above 3.0.

Work Experience When listing your work experience, be sure to include your job title, the name of the company, and the dates of employment. It’s also important to include a brief description of your role and duties. Use bullet points to make the information easier to read.

Internship and Volunteer Experience Even if you haven’t had a traditional job, including experience from internships or volunteer work can be incredibly beneficial. List the name of the organization, dates of service, and your role and responsibilities.

Leadership and Extracurricular Activities Employers want to see that you’re well-rounded and have a variety of skills. Highlighting leadership positions and extracurricular activities shows that you’re not only dedicated to your studies but also active in your community.

Skills and Certifications Whether you’re proficient in a particular software program or have a certification in a particular field, including this information demonstrates that you have the skills required for the job.

Professional References Finally, make sure to list the name and contact information of at least one professional reference. This can be a former supervisor, professor, or mentor who can attest to your skills and work ethic.

By following these content guidelines and using proper formatting, you can create a standout student resume that showcases your skills and experience to potential employers.

Formatting and Style

When it comes to creating your student resume, you want to be sure that it looks polished and professional. The formatting and style of your resume can make all the difference in how it’s received by potential employers. Here are some tips on how to ensure that your resume is top-notch:

Choosing the Right Resume Format

There are three main types of resume formats: chronological, functional, and combination. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your experience and career goals. For example, if you have a lot of relevant work experience, a chronological format might be the best choice. On the other hand, if you’re just starting out in your career or have gaps in your employment history, a functional format might be more effective.

Fonts, Spacing, and Margins

When it comes to fonts, stick to something basic and easy to read, like Times New Roman or Arial. Avoid using fonts that are too fancy or difficult to read, as this will only detract from the content of your resume. The spacing and margins of your resume should also be consistent and easy on the eyes. Stick to a standard margin (around 1 inch), and use a line spacing of 1.15 to 1.5.

Using Action Words and Quantifiable Results

One of the most important things you can do on your resume is to use action words and show quantifiable results wherever possible. For example, instead of saying that you “assisted customers,” say that you “provided exemplary customer service to over 100 customers per day.” This not only sounds more impressive, but it also shows potential employers that you can back up your claims with real-world results.

Proofreading and Editing Your Resume

Finally, be sure to proofread and edit your resume carefully. This means checking for typos and grammatical errors, as well as making sure that your formatting and style are consistent throughout. It can be helpful to have someone else read over your resume as well, as they may be able to catch mistakes or provide feedback that you might have missed.

Formatting and style are crucial elements of any effective resume. By choosing the right format, using easy-to-read fonts and consistent spacing, highlighting your achievements with action words and quantifiable results, and carefully proofreading and editing your work, you can help ensure that your student resume stands out from the competition.

Tips for Writing a Winning Resume

When crafting a resume, it’s important to focus on showcasing your accomplishments, avoiding common mistakes, adhering to professional ethics, staying professional and honest, and customizing the document for specific roles and industries. Here are a few practical tips to keep in mind:

Highlighting Accomplishments

One of the most critical elements of a student resume is highlighting your accomplishments. Instead of merely listing your responsibilities or duties, focus on describing how you have made a difference in your previous roles. Use numbers and metrics to quantify your achievements as much as possible. For example, instead of saying “Assisted with marketing campaigns,” say “Developed and executed a successful social media campaign that resulted in a 25% increase in website traffic.” Highlighting your accomplishments will demonstrate your value and make you stand out to potential employers.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

There are many common mistakes that students can make when putting together their resumes. These include typos and grammatical errors, using flashy or unprofessional fonts, including irrelevant information or listing hobbies/interests that aren’t impressive or relevant to the position. Additionally, it is important to ensure consistency in formatting, use white space effectively, and use bullet points to break down information in a clear and concise manner.

Adhering to Professional Ethics

When creating your resume, it is important to adhere to professional ethics. This means being honest and truthful in your statements, avoiding exaggeration or lies, respecting confidential information, and presenting yourself in a professional manner. Remember that your resume is a representation of you and your work ethics, and potential employers will be evaluating you based on its content and format.

Staying Professional and Honest

Professionalism and honesty go hand in hand when writing a resume. Avoid using informal language or slang, and do not use first-person pronouns. Write in complete sentences and use proper grammar and punctuation. You should also avoid exaggerating your skills or experiences, as this can come back to haunt you later on. It’s always better to under-promise and over-deliver than the other way around.

Customizing the Resume for Specific Roles and Industries

Finally, it is important to customize your resume for specific roles and industries. Use relevant keywords and industry-specific terminology to help your resume get past the automated screening systems. Highlight your experience and skills that are most relevant to the position you’re applying for, and consider tailoring your resume to each job application. This will help you stand out as a candidate who understands the needs of the company and the requirements of the role.

By following these tips, you can create a winning resume that showcases your skills, accomplishments, and value as a potential employee. Keep in mind that your resume is a reflection of you and your work ethics, so make sure you put in the time and effort required to make it stand out from the hundreds of others in the pile. Good luck!

Resume Examples for Students

Writing a resume can be daunting, especially for students who may not have much experience. However, with the right guidance and a few examples, crafting a standout resume is more manageable than it may seem. Here are some resume examples for different student scenarios:

Samples for High School and College Students

High school and college students typically have limited work experience, but that doesn’t mean they are incapable of creating a strong resume. Here are some tips for writing a resume as a student:

• Highlight relevant coursework or projects
• Detail relevant extracurricular activities, such as leadership roles in clubs or volunteer work
• Emphasize any internships or part-time jobs

A student resume sample might include the following sections:

• Contact information
• Relevant coursework or projects
• Extracurricular activities
• Work experience (if applicable)

Resumes for Internship and Summer Jobs

Applying for internships or summer jobs is an excellent way for students to gain experience and build their resumes. Here are some tips for writing a resume for these positions:

• Highlight any relevant internships or coursework related to the position
• Detail relevant skills and experience that make you the right fit for the job
• Emphasize any volunteer or extracurricular work that demonstrates your work ethic and skills

Resume Example 1: Marketing Internship

Sarah Davis 123 Main Street, City, State 12345 (123) 456-7890 [email protected]

Bachelor of Business Administration XYZ University, City, State Expected Graduation: May 2024

• Proficient in social media platforms and digital marketing tools
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Creative thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Attention to detail and organizational skills
• Team player with the ability to collaborate effectively

Marketing Intern, ABC Company City, State Summer 2022

• Assisted in developing and executing social media campaigns
• Created engaging content for various digital platforms
• Conducted market research and competitor analysis
• Assisted with event planning and coordination

Digital Marketing Campaign

• Developed and managed a digital marketing campaign for a local event
• Created content for social media platforms and analyzed campaign performance
• Collaborated with team members to optimize campaign strategies

Leadership and Involvement

• Member, Marketing Club, XYZ University (2020-Present)
• Volunteer, Local Charity Organization (2020-2021)

Certifications

• Google Ads Certification (2022)
• HubSpot Content Marketing Certification (2022)

A resume example for an internship or summer job might include:

• Objective or summary statement
• Relevant skills and experience
• Relevant extracurricular or volunteer work

Resume Example 2: Summer Job – Retail Sales Associate

Michael Johnson 456 Oak Street, City, State 12345 (234) 567-8901 [email protected]

High School Diploma XYZ High School, City, State Graduation Date: May 2023

• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills
• Strong communication and active listening abilities
• Attention to detail and accuracy in cash handling
• Knowledge of product inventory and merchandising
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and team-oriented environment

Retail Sales Associate, XYZ Store City, State Summer 2022

• Assisted customers with product inquiries and provided recommendations
• Operated cash register and processed transactions accurately
• Restocked merchandise and maintained store cleanliness
• Assisted in visual merchandising and product displays

Achievements

• Received “Employee of the Month” award for outstanding customer service (2022)

Volunteer Experience

• Volunteer, Local Community Center (2020-2021)

Extracurricular Activities

• Member, High School Debate Team (2019-2023)
• Captain, Varsity Soccer Team (2019-2023)

Resumes for Recent Graduates and Entry-Level Positions

Recent graduates and those seeking entry-level positions may have limited experience, but they likely have transferable skills and relevant coursework that can make them strong candidates.

Resume Example 3: Recent Graduate

John Smith 123 Main Street, City, State 12345 (123) 456-7890 [email protected]

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration XYZ University, City, State Graduation Date: May 2023

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills

Work Experience

Intern, ABC Company City, State Summer 2022

• Assisted with data analysis and report generation
• Supported team in project management tasks
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams on various initiatives

Business Strategy Project

• Developed a comprehensive business strategy proposal for a local startup
• Presented findings and recommendations to company stakeholders
• President, Business Club, XYZ University (2021-2023)
• Volunteer, Habitat for Humanity (2020-2021)

Honors and Awards

• Dean’s List, XYZ University (2019-2023)

Resume Example 4: Entry-Level Marketing Assistant

Emily Johnson 456 Oak Street, City, State 12345 (234) 567-8901 [email protected]

Bachelor of Arts in Marketing XYZ University, City, State Graduation Date: May 2023

• Strong copywriting and content creation skills
• Excellent project management and organizational abilities
• Data analysis and market research skills
• Creative problem-solving and strategic thinking

Marketing Intern, XYZ Company City, State Summer 2022

• Assisted in developing and implementing social media campaigns

Marketing Campaign for Local Nonprofit

• Developed and executed a marketing campaign to raise awareness and funds for a local nonprofit organization
• Managed social media accounts and created engaging content
• Collaborated with team members to create promotional materials
• Secretary, Marketing Association, XYZ University (2021-2023)
• Volunteer, Local Food Bank (2020-2021)
• Marketing Student of the Year, XYZ University (2022)

Remember to customize these examples based on your own education, skills, experiences, and career goals.

Cover Letter Writing Tips

A cover letter is a complementary document to your resume, intended to introduce yourself and highlight your qualifications to a potential employer. The goal of a cover letter is to convince the employer that you are the best candidate for the position, and to encourage them to review your resume and invite you for an interview.

Purpose and Content of Cover Letter

The content of the cover letter will depend on the job you are applying for and your experience. However, the typical cover letter should include the following elements:

• An opening sentence that explains why you are writing
• A brief introduction that highlights your most relevant qualifications and achievements
• A description of your skills and experiences that are relevant to the job
• An explanation of why you are interested in the company and the position
• A closing paragraph that thanks the employer for considering your application and reiterates your interest in the position

The purpose of the cover letter is to convey your enthusiasm and interest in the position, as well as your qualifications and experience.

Format and Structure of Cover Letter

The format of a cover letter is typically in three to four paragraphs, and it should be no longer than one page. A well-structured and properly formatted cover letter will help to make a good first impression. Here is a basic structure to follow:

Header: Start with your contact details, followed by the date and the employer’s contact details.

Salutation: Begin with the recipient’s name if possible, if you cannot find their name, use “Dear Hiring Manager.”

Opening Paragraph: Start strong with a hook or anecdote that catches the reader’s attention and demonstrates your enthusiasm for the job.

Body Paragraphs: The meat of the cover letter, where you highlight your skills and experience. Make sure to relate this to the specific job you are seeking.

Closing Paragraph: End on a strong note by thanking the employer for considering your application and asking for an interview

Tips for Writing a Memorable Cover Letter

Here are some tips to help you write a cover letter that will stand out from the crowd:

• Customize your cover letter for each job application instead of using a generic one for every job.
• Start with a strong opening sentence, such as a personal story or anecdote, to capture the reader’s attention.
• Highlight your most relevant accomplishments and experiences to the job you are applying for.
• Show your enthusiasm for the job and the company by explaining why you are interested in the position and the organization.
• Use bullet points to make it easy for the employer to scan over your cover letter.
• Proofread your cover letter and edit it carefully, looking for any grammatical errors or typos.

A cover letter is an important tool in securing a job interview, and it should be written with care and attention to detail.

Follow-up Strategies

After submitting your resume, it’s essential to have a post-resume submission strategy. This section will cover some tips for following up after submitting your resume, handling rejection and accepting an offer, and additional steps you can take to boost your resume and career growth.

Post-Resume Submission Strategies

Following up after submitting your resume can make a big difference in whether or not you hear back from the company. Here are a few post-resume submission strategies to consider:

• Send a follow-up email. If you don’t hear back within two weeks, send a polite follow-up email to ask about the status of your application. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and your professionalism.
• Make a phone call. If you haven’t heard back after a few weeks, consider making a phone call. This can help you have a more personal conversation and potentially stand out from other applicants.
• Connect with the hiring manager on LinkedIn. If you can find the hiring manager’s information, try to connect with them on LinkedIn. This can help you build a relationship and possibly get more information about the role.

Handling Rejection and Accepting an Offer

Not every job application will result in an offer, and that’s okay. If you receive a rejection, take the following steps:

• Thank the employer for considering your application. A gracious email or note can help leave a positive impression and keep you in the employer’s mind if future roles come up.
• Ask for feedback. If you receive a rejection, ask if the employer can provide feedback on why you weren’t selected. This can help you improve for future applications.
• Keep a positive attitude. Rejection is difficult, but try to learn from it and move on to the next opportunity.

If you do receive an offer, congratulations! Here are a few tips for accepting an offer:

• Review the offer carefully. Make sure you fully understand the terms of the employment before accepting.
• Thank the employer for the offer. Show your appreciation for the opportunity.
• Follow up with any necessary paperwork. Make sure you fill out any paperwork or provide any necessary information promptly.

Additional Steps to Boost Resume and Career Growth

To continue growing your career, here are a few additional steps you can take:

• Network. Connect with professionals in your field to learn from them and potentially find new opportunities.
• Consider further education. If there is a specific area you want to improve on, consider taking classes or pursuing a certification.
• Volunteer or take on a side project. This can help you gain new skills and show your dedication to your field.
• Keep updating your resume. Even once you have a job, continue updating your resume with new skills, accomplishments, and experiences to showcase your growth.

By following these post-resume submission strategies, handling rejection and accepting an offer professionally, and continuing to take steps to boost your career growth, you will be well on your way to creating a strong professional profile.

Related Articles

• Financial Advisor: Job Description, Salary, and Skills
• 10 Property Manager Resume Examples That Will Impress
• Projects on Your Resume: How to Include Them the Right Way
• One Column vs Two Column Resume: A Guide with Best Examples
• Temporary Employees: What You Need to Know in 2023

Rate this article

0 / 5. Reviews: 0

More from ResumeHead

• Resume Builder
• Resume Experts
• Search Jobs
• Search for Talent
• Employer Branding
• Outplacement
• Resume Samples
• Job Descriptions
• Cover Letters

Resume Examples & Samples

The ultimate guide to writing a student resume [examples].

Adi Gaskell

Create a Resume in Minutes & Get More Job Interviews

Table of Contents

The resume must-knows.

• Contact Information
• Resume Summary or Objective

Work Experience and Core Sections

• Internships
• Transferable Experience
• Extracurricular Activities
• Projects and Portfolio

Creating a student resume can be a daunting process. Chances are, you’ve never had a professional job before, which leaves you staring at a blank piece of paper hoping that a resume would magically appear.

While having a degree is great, you should know that your entire graduating class has that. As does the previous graduating class, and the graduating class of the university nearby.

At the end of the day, what’s really going to set you apart from everyone else is your resume, which is why you have to make it perfect.

In this guide, you’re going to learn:

• What sections to include
• How to list basic information on your resume (contact, education)
• How to sell yourself without any work experience
• Using internship experience to set yourself apart
• Using somewhat “irrelevant” work experience to your advantage
• How university activities can lead to professional skills

# the-resume-must-knows

Whether you’re a student or a professional with 20 years of experience, you’ll have to start off your resume the same way.

The must-have sections in any resume are:

• Summary or Objective

VelvetJobs Expert Tip

You might want to start working on your student resume right now - it's much easier to apply everything you learn as you read on. Give our resume builder a try.

CONTACT INFORMATION

# contact-information.

While the contact section of your resume might seem simple, it’s very important to get it right. Imagine spending weeks sending out your resume and not getting a response because you've got a type in your e-mail!

Always make sure that your contact section is 100% accurate.

The contact information section consists oF :

First Name / Last Name

Phone Number

Address (City, State, Zip Code)

Most of those entries are pretty self-explanatory . The one thing you should pay extra attention to is the e -mail address.

When it comes to e-mail, make sure to use a professional one. Use [First Name] + [Last Name] @ EmailProvider.com , or any variation of that.

[email protected] may be funny but the recruiter will see it as extremely unprofessional.

Make sure not to use your university email because those accounts tend to expire after graduation.

Depending on your major , there are some additional things you could mention.

• Behance - if you’re a design student, it’s a good way to showcase your portfolio
• GitHub - If you’ve been studying programming, you probably have a lot of projects or games you’ve worked on. That’s something the recruiter would love to take a look at - and GitHub is a good place to store those.
• Blog, Website - For any job that requires a portfolio - be it design, coding or writing, you can always create a personal website from scratch.

Contact information is important - you don't want to lose your dream job because the recruiter couldn't contact you. Learn how to include contact information in your resume with our guide!

RESUME SUMMARY OR OBJECTIVE

A good way to begin your resume is with either a summary or an objective . This will be the first thing a recruiter sees the factor that determines whether they’re going to read the rest of it.

The summary is your professional overview and it goes first, followed by the objective which explains what you’re trying to achieve with the resume and why you're a good fit for the job.

As a student, you probably don’t have much of a professional career, so what you need to go for is an objective.

How to Write a Resume Objective

As we’ve mentioned before, the idea behind a resume objective is to show the recruiter why you’re applying for the job, and how it’s going to beneficial for the company to hire you. Let's look at a bad and good example.

WRONG Example:

I studied accounting because my parents thought it was cool. I want this job because I like cozy offices, nice pay , and being able to repay my $100,000 student loans

This is NOT what the recruiter is looking for. The more specific you are, the more likely the recruiter will take you seriously.

While there are no strict “rules” on how you create a resume objective, you should keep in mind that the general standard is having it written in 3rd person .

To help make it easier to create a resume objective, we came up with a super-simple formula:

Now, let’s look at each of the ingredients one by one, so it’s easier to apply it to your case.

• University Degree - Which school you’re going to, what your major is, and any honors or distinctions.
• Extracurricular Activities - The “work” you did during school. This can entail the clubs you participated in or the competitions you won.
• Application - This portion explains how you've put your degree and activities to use in real life.

To make that more understandable, let’s turn it into something more practical:

RIGHT Example:

Energetic and passionate Business Administration graduate from Boston University [University Degree] . Record of excellence in finance, having won 2nd place on the MadeUpFinanceCompetetion [Extracurricular Activities] . Looking to leverage the knowledge and skills gained from the university in a career in finance [Application] .

A resume objective shows the recruiter that you're passionate about the company. Want to learn more about creating a killer resume objective ? Check out our guide!

# education

This section is where the last 4 years of your life go.

here's how to format the section:

Type of degree + Field of study

University name + Duration

Honors and Distinctions

This section is very straoghtforward. T here’s no “wrong” way to list your education.

The one thing you should consider is the GPA . You want to use it only if it works in your favor. List it only if it's a 3.5+ / 4.0.

check out this examplE :

B.A . Accounting

Cornell University, 2012 - 2016

3.76 / 4.0 .

• Awarded merit-based MadeUp Scholarship
• Graduated with Honors in the field of Accounting

Have more questions about listing your education ? Maybe you dropped out from school, and are unsure about whether to mention it. Or maybe you're wondering how to mention honors and distinctions? Learn all that and more with our guide!

# work-experience-and-core-sections

Once you’ve got all the basics of the resume down, but you still don't know how to go about work experience .

Maybe you've even heard the popular trope...

Requirements:

• 20+ years of experience in marketing
• Experience in managing marketing budget of $20,000+
• Results-driven , able to make us rich

The job is paid in exposure, good vibes & a potential for a normal job (eventually. If we like you. Maybe.)

Well, here’s some good news - that’s not exactly how it works. The “needing work experience to get a job, needing a job to get work experience” trope is actually a myth.

As a student, what sets you apart is not your years of experience. The recruiter knows that you’ve probably never worked before, not a lot of people applying for an entry-level job have.

What HR is looking for is your willingness to learn and there are plenty of ways to show demonstrate that on your resume, including having all the core information put together in one of these successful resume templates .

To be more specific:

• Internship Experience - These days, many universities make it mandatory to complete an internship before graduation. Internships can help prepare you for a career in your field, and get you the skills you need for your first professional job.
• Transfera ble Experiences - Chances are, you’ve worked some sort of part-time blue-collar job. Think a cashier, waiter, or a customer support rep. While those positions might seem a bit irrelevant in comparison to a professional job, they give you transferable skills that help set you apart from the competition.
• Extracurricular Activities - Your college adviser has probably told you that extracurricular activities are good for your student resume. I t’s true - they tend to give you applicable skills (think editing, photography, writing, administration).
• Projects & Portfolio - You’ve probably had some side-projects in school. Maybe it’s a game you’ve developed in your free time or concept-art you’ve been working on. Mentioning them in your resume proves that despite your lack of work experience, you’re completely capable of working in the field.

We’re going to go through them one-by-one , and explain how they can fit into your resume.

If you can make your work experience work for you, you're a shoe-in for the job! Learn everything there is to know about listing your work experience with our complete guide!

# internships

Internships.

If you’ve done an internship in college, it's going to be a lot easier to find a professional job after school. You list internships on your resume exactly the same way as work experience - in a reverse chronological order and with simple formatting.

internship formatting:

Position + Dates

Company Name

Responsibilities & Accomplishments

Check out this example:

• Underwent training in digital marketing, specifically for SEO , PPC & Content Marketing
• Published 3 posts on the company blog, each receiving 100+ shares
• Managed an AdWords account of $2,000 , under the supervision of the PPC manager
• In charge of the execution of blogger outreach, establishing 5+ contacts with influencers

Quantification is king - whenever you have the chance, talk about your experiences in numbers .

To get a better idea, look at the following example ...

Closed monthly deals of $5,000+

Which one sounds more “convincing?”

The first case, the recruiter would see dollar signs - this guy can sell , and he’ll make us some real money. In the second case, there’s really nothing to be impressed by.

# transferable-experience

Transferable experience.

Let's say you've held a summer job between college semesters.

At a glance, a summer job as a server might seem like it can't help you in any way. Why should a recruiter care about the time you spent waiting tables? Is that something you’d even mention on a resume?

Well, it depends - in some cases, mentioning the experience might be what sets you apart.

Which one do you think would win between these two examples?

Worked 60+ hours a week as a server during summer holidays to pay for school

My family paid for my university, and I’ve never worked a day in my life

Itt’s always better to mention some work experience as opposed to none . It shows initiative and willingness to get things done.

If you don’t have enough internships or extracurricular activities to fill up a page, then you might want to add any kind of work experience you have.

Temporary jobs could give you transferable skills which can be directly applicable to the full-time position you're applying for. For example, let’s say the job you’re applying for requires dealing with customers .

If you’ve done anything that put you in charge of ensuring client satisfaction, then that experience might be relevant for the job. Some examples are:

• Waiter / Waitress
• Sales Assistant
• Customer Support

So if you’re applying for a job in sales , you’d want to mention any of these in your work experience section.

• Worked 20 to 30 hours a week as a server to help university bills
• Interacted with 30+ customers on a daily basis
• Ensured 100% customer satisfaction , catering to their every need
• Voted employee of the month during months of Aug, Oct .

This shows that the job-seeker is familiar with hard work and managing to put in long hours while attending school.

Plus, they’ve interacted with customers before which immediately puts them ahead of anyone who hasn’t .

Want to land your internship resume? Learn how to create an internship resume with our complete guide & get ahead your competition!

# extracurricular-activities

Extracurricular activities.

It’s a fact - extracurricular activities are good for your resume. Think of them as a “ simulation ” of real work. You go to meetings, organize events, and interact with “ co-workers. ”

University clubs can teach you hard skills like photography, video editing, public speaking, or soft skills like being organized, interpersonal, negotiation, and thinking on your feet. The section for extracurricular activities works as “work experience” would on a more seasoned resume.

If you’ve worked consistently at a club, then you want to mention the exact things you’ve done.

Extracurricular activities formatting

Organization Name

This is according to the same principles as your typical work experience section. Make sure to quantify your achievements whenever possible.

Check out the example below:

2016 Sep - 2017 Jan

• In charge of managing communications with different influencers & business people
• Oversaw a team of 4 , mentoring new members and ensuring all events went as scheduled
• Organized events for students interested in entrepreneurship, bringing in guest speakers & holding simulations
• Established relations with 5+ local companies , sponsoring food & drinks for club events).

If you haven’t done much at the club, however, or if it’s something you really can’t count as an experience , then you can do a simple line…

Minor entry

Club + Position + Dates

This kind of experience also works . Say, you’ve played soccer for 4 years in school . That means you’re physically fit and have some endurance. Really demanding jobs such as business consulting, for example, need some real serious endurance .

Member of the University Soccer Club, Sep 2015 - Feb 2017.

# projects-and-portfolio

Projects and portfolio.

Depending on what you studied in school, you might have worked on some side-projects . For example, a web developer might have coded a website at a university club.

If you’re a designer , maybe you’ve done fan-art for your favorite TV shows. Or maybe you’re an entrepreneurial business student , starting a mini-business on your college campus.

If you're worked on any digital projects, you can upload them in an online portfolio and include a link to it in your contacts section. If on the other hand, it’s a real-life project , then you might want to create a separate section for it in your resume.

In that case, you’d want to structure it as is “ work experience ,” but with some minor differences.

Project formatting

Project Name

Project Description

Experience, Achievements, etc.

Now, let’s turn that into a practical example:

Independent Projects

CampusFoods

On MadeUpUni campus, there was a lack of a delivery options from local restaurants. I started CampusFoods to solve the problem, employing students to do delivery runs for a % of profits from the restaurant.

• Bootstrapped the entire project, initially handling the deliveries personally.
• Created a delivery schedule, allowing for low-cost food transportation.
• Hired 3 university students part-time , managing and coordinating them on a daily basis.
• During the entire business life-time , earned over $10,000 + in revenue.

Need some inspiration? Check out these resume templates .

Skills can be a very important section in your resume - but it can also be literally nothing .

There are 2 different types of skills you mention on a resume:

• Hard Skills - These are the technical stuff - anything that you can empirically prove. Think Photoshop , web design, C++ , etc.
• Soft Skills - Everything less tangible. Think, people skills, critical-thinking , and leadership.

Hard skills are essential for any good resume. If the employer is looking for someone skilled at Photoshop , it’s a must that you mention that you’re proficient at it. Otherwise, you're just going to get skipped.

Never, ever lie about your skill level. If you start a job as a web developer and realize that you have no idea how to do basic layout, it’s going to be awkward for everyone.

You can divide hard skills into 3 different levels:

• Beginner - Just starting out, <1 year of experience
• Intermediate - 1 - 3 years of experience.
• Expert - 3+ years of experience, less if you have achievements to back up the claim

Listing them on a resume is also extremely simple - simply mention the skill & your level of expertise.

for example:

Photoshop - Intermediate

Illustrator - Intermediate

Excel - Beginner

UX Design - Beginner

Soft skills, however, aren’t nearly as simple . They also happen to be something that most students mess up with.

Since soft skills aren't tangible , anyone can claim that they have them, regardless of whether it's a sophomore in college, or a manager with 10 years of experience.

So when a student needs something to fill up their resume, they just list different soft skills they supposedly possess, thinking that the recruiter will just believe them at a glance.

Imagine seeing this as on a student resume:

Soft skills example

Critical Thinking

This says nothing substantial about you as a candidate. Listing theoretical things such as “critical thinking,” “leadership,” etc., doesn’t work, since everyone else can do the same. You have to back up these claims with evidence of achievements.

Held managerial positions in 3 student clubs during the time in the university, managing teams consisting of up to 10 people .

Here, on the other hand, you have solid proof of your leadership experience - and that’s something the recruiter might ask you as a follow-up in an interview.

Now let's look at a complete example:

Once you have everything down, it’s time to proofread your resume and start your first professional job-search . In terms of proofreading, it’s always good to have a friend take a look at it. There might be some minor mistakes that have slipped by.

If your university has a career center , then you might want to have them take a look at it, too.

It’s important for your resume not to have any spelling or grammatical mistakes . It shows that you’re actually serious about your career. Plus, attention to detail is one of those things any future boss will value. So, you might want to run your resume through Grammarly , or any other spell-checking tool.

If you can't get in touch with your career center for whatever reason, you might want to give our experts a try!

Do remember, though, that your first job-search might seem a bit discouraging at times. There might be times when it seems hopeless, with no one getting back to you after you sent out hundreds of e-mails.

Remember that until you've mnaged to build a solid career, job-search is a numbers game. All you have to do is keep applying.

If you’re applying for jobs at bigger corporations , this might even be tougher, since they (sometimes) don’t send out rejection letters .

If, however, you’re going for small to medium-sized companies, you can use an email tracking tool such as BananaTag , which gives you information on whenever your emails are opened.

To make it even more high-tech , you can use DocSend to store your resume online and send a link. In that case, DocSend will notify you whenever someone takes a look at your resume & how long they’ll be looking at it.

Now that you're a master at creating a student resume, how about putting your knowledge into practice. Head over to our resume builder and get the job-search going!

Follow us on Pinterest to see more awesome pins!

Privacy preference center

We care about your privacy

When you visit our website, we will use cookies to make sure you enjoy your stay. We respect your privacy and we’ll never share your resumes and cover letters with recruiters or job sites. On the other hand, we’re using several third party tools to help us run our website with all its functionality.

But what exactly are cookies? Cookies are small bits of information which get stored on your computer. This information usually isn’t enough to directly identify you, but it allows us to deliver a page tailored to your particular needs and preferences.

Because we really care about your right to privacy, we give you a lot of control over which cookies we use in your sessions. Click on the different category headings on the left to find out more, and change our default settings.

However, remember that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience of our website. Finally, note that we’ll need to use a cookie to remember your cookie preferences.

Without these cookies our website wouldn’t function and they cannot be switched off. We need them to provide services that you’ve asked for.

Want an example? We use these cookies when you sign in to Kickresume. We also use them to remember things you’ve already done, like text you’ve entered into a registration form so it’ll be there when you go back to the page in the same session.

Thanks to these cookies, we can count visits and traffic sources to our pages. This allows us to measure and improve the performance of our website and provide you with content you’ll find interesting.

Performance cookies let us see which pages are the most and least popular, and how you and other visitors move around the site.

All information these cookies collect is aggregated (it’s a statistic) and therefore completely anonymous. If you don’t let us use these cookies, you’ll leave us in the dark a bit, as we won’t be able to give you the content you may like.

We use these cookies to uniquely identify your browser and internet device. Thanks to them, we and our partners can build a profile of your interests, and target you with discounts to our service and specialized content.

On the other hand, these cookies allow some companies target you with advertising on other sites. This is to provide you with advertising that you might find interesting, rather than with a series of irrelevant ads you don’t care about.

Student Resume Examples & Writing Guide for 2024

Diving headfirst into job search when you have little to none practical experience can be petrifying. But don't worry! Our guide is here to simplify the daunting task of writing your student resume . Let us lead you through the process step by step with our practical tips, sleek resume templates, detailed examples, and samples. Let's begin!

In this guide, we teach you everything you need to know about writing a resume as a student. Keep reading to learn how to:

• Choose a format that focuses less on work experience
• Write a resume summary that expresses your best skills
• Include a wide variety of hard & soft skills on your resume
• Describe extracurricular & volunteer experience in your work history
• List your academic credentials & awards properly
• Access top resources for job-seeking students

Still looking for a job? These 100+ resources will tell you everything you need to get hired fast.

1. Choose the best format for your student resume

No matter if you are a high school, college, or higher education student, the first crucial step to writing your student resume is to choose the best format for your needs.

Generally, applicants who are current students will have limited formal work experience, but an extensive academic background. Along with coursework, this may include extracurriculars, student assistantships, internships, and volunteer work.

The best format for this type of experience is the functional resume . Functional resumes do not focus on work experience as a standard reverse-chronological resume would. Instead, this format focuses much more heavily on education, skills, and unpaid experience.

Of course, if you do have some work experience, you may want to opt for the more traditional reverse-chronological resume or a hybrid resume format. Reverse-chronological resumes focus on your most recent job first and work backward from there, making the work experience section the largest on the document. Hybrid resumes, by contrast, spread the focus out more evenly between all sections.

Choose your preferred template and make your resume shine.

Try our AI Resume Writer and have your resume ready in minutes!

2. write a resume summary that expresses your best skills.

Your resume summary is a short statement that summarizes your best attributes as a professional or as a student. This can include your credentials, accomplishments, or goals, but should always focus primarily on providing compelling details to catch the attention of the reader.

To help illustrate how to write a strong resume summary, here is an incorrect example followed by a correction and explanation.

Incorrect student resume summary example

Current high school student who is looking for part-time employment in the automobile and mechanic industry. Has taken multiple shop classes working directly with automobiles and can provide a recommendation from the teacher. Strong and hard-working football player.

Why is this incorrect?

When you write your resume summary, you want to think not only about including relevant information but also about how you word things to sound engaging and intriguing. This summary includes vital information about the student and their goals, but ultimately fails to grab the attention of the reader due to the poor writing and lack of specificity.

Corrected student resume summary

Hard-Working High School Student with a strong interest in beginning a career as a mechanic. 2+ years of experience working with automobiles in a supervised classroom setting, with a letter of recommendation from supervising teacher available upon request. Team-player with strong leadership and collaboration skills from serving as the football team’s co-captain.

Why is this correct?

In this corrected example, the student includes a lot of the same information but with greater context and specific facts to back up their claims. The sentences have a better overall flow that gives the person reading the summary a clear oversight of who this student is and what their goals are.

3. Include a wide variety of hard & soft skills on your student resume

As a student, you have probably heard your teachers or professors say you need to hone your skills – but did you know there are two distinct types of skills you can have?

These two types of skills are known as hard skills and soft skills .

Hard skills refer to your technical and learned abilities, such as athletics or computer skills. These abilities take time and commitment to obtain, making them key qualifications for specific jobs.

Soft skills , comparatively, refer to your interpersonal and intellectual abilities that allow you to collaborate with others and understand the world around you. These can be both inherent and learned, and include things such as people skills and communication.

Including both types of skills on your resume shows the person reading it that you understand the importance of having both kinds.

With this in mind, here are 10 ideas for both hard and soft skills that are great for a student’s resume:

The best student hard skills to put on your resume

• Athletic ability (strength, stamina, specific sports, etc.)
• Computer skills (typing, web browsing, researching, etc.)
• Computer software (Microsoft Office 365, Adobe Creative Cloud)
• Google workspace
• Mathematics
• Fluency in foreign languages
• Creating presentations
• Public speaking
• Critical reading & note-taking

Effective soft skills for your student CV

• Teamwork & collaboration
• Written & verbal communication
• Calmness under pressure
• Determination
• Problem-solving
• Professionalism

Find out your resume score!

4. Describe extracurricular & volunteer experience in your student work history

If you are in high school or college and have never worked a formal job, it is likely difficult to write a standard resume that focuses on paid work experience .

It is important to remember that employers who are willing to hire current students are often aware that you may not have an extensive work history. Despite this, most students will have a variety of extracurricular or volunteer experiences that can be subbed in for formal work experience.

For instance, if you are a high school student and serve as the captain of a sports team, you can use this position as an entry in your work experience section. Additionally, rather than name the section “Work Experience,” name it something more fitting like “Hands-On Experience” or simply “Experience.”

Here is an example of a work experience entry from a student resume

Grayson County High School Debate Team Captain August 2020 to Present

• Organized a team of 30+ students to meet and practice debating weekly.
• Researched and fact-checked more than 100 debate drafts, providing corrections and feedback when needed.
• Re-elected for the captain position in May 2021 for the 2021-2022 school year.

5. List your academic credentials & awards on your student resume

On a standard resume for established professionals, the education section should generally be kept short and sweet. However, student resumes often lack extensive work histories, leaving more room to expand on academic credentials and experience.

When listing an ongoing diploma or degree, it is important to note this to employers using an “Expected Date of Graduation” bullet point. Even though you have not graduated yet, this will give employers a better idea of when you will graduate and how your school schedule may affect the work schedule.

Additionally, it can be useful to include your GPA(s) when writing a resume while still a student, as this can help to illustrate your work ethic to employers.

Here is an example of a well-crafted education section on a student resume

Wilkes Community College, West Jefferson, NC Associate’s in Business Administration

• Expected Graduation: 2023
• Current GPA:8

Ashe County High School, West Jefferson, NC High School Diploma

• Graduated: 2020

Certifications

• First Aid & CPR, American Red Cross, 2024
• Lifeguard Certification, American Red Cross, 2024

6. Include valuable extra sections in your student resume

When crafting a student resume, including extra sections can be a valuable way to highlight your unique experiences, skills, and achievements beyond traditional academic qualifications.

These sections allow you to showcase your involvement in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, community service, and relevant projects. By including these extra sections, you can demonstrate your well-roundedness, transferable skills, and personal qualities that make you a standout candidate. Some examples of extra sections to consider for a student resume include:

• Leadership and Involvement : Highlight your participation in student organizations, clubs, or sports teams, emphasizing any leadership positions held and the impact you made.
• Volunteer and Community Service : Showcase your dedication to giving back through volunteering experiences, community projects, or service-learning initiatives.
• Projects and Research : Highlight any significant projects or research work you have undertaken, showcasing your problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and hands-on skills.
• Awards and Recognitions : List any academic or non-academic awards, scholarships, or honors received, demonstrating your outstanding achievements and dedication to excellence.
• Professional Development and Certifications : Include relevant workshops, online courses, or certifications you have completed, emphasizing your commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

Here's an example of how to effectively list your volunteer and community service

• Volunteer, Local Animal Shelter, 2019-Present

Assist in daily operations, including animal care, adoption events, and fundraising activities, promoting animal welfare and community engagement.

• Organizer, Annual Food Drive, XYZ High School, 2017-2020

Coordinated a team of volunteers, collected and sorted donations, and delivered food to local shelters, contributing to hunger relief efforts in the community.

7. Top resources for job-seeking students

Crafting an effective student resume is your first step toward landing that coveted internship, part-time job, or entry-level position. However, knowing where to look for these opportunities is equally important. To complement your freshly polished resume, here’s a curated list of top job search resources specifically designed for students like you:

• Online job search engines: Websites with broad focus like Indeed , SimplyHired , Glassdoor , and ZipRecruiter are great entry points to your professional journey. 
• Job boards for students: Platforms like Handshake , Aftercollege , College Recruiter , or Internmatch offer internships, part-time jobs, seasonal work, and entry-level career opportunities in a wide range of industries. 
• University career services: You should also take advantage of your college or university's career services! These can help you with job placement, resume writing workshops, mock interviews, and attending career fairs. 
• Networking events and career fairs: Attend career fairs and networking events hosted by your university or your local industry groups. These can be great opportunities to meet employers face-to-face and learn about job openings.
• Company websites: You can go straight to the source! If you already have a particular company in mind, search through their official website to find out if they offer internships or entry-level positions. Or reach out to them with your resume and cover letter and enquire about possible collaboration. 
• Continuous learning: Learning doesn't stop the second your feet leave the academic soil! Online platforms like Coursera , edX , Khan Academy , or LinkedIn Learning offer a wide selection of courses that can expand your skills and increase your chances of getting hired.

Remember, the job search process can be competitive and tiring, especially for students with less work experience. It's more like a marathon than a sprint, really. So don't exhaust yourself at the very beginning. And don't forget to always update your resume with every new skill or experience you gain. Good luck!

Student Resume FAQ

Basically, your student resume is something like your ID in the workforce. It shows the recruiters who you are and what you can do. It's an opportunity to showcase your skills, academic achievements, and experiences. Having a resume is a must for anyone active on the job market. Without a resume, you won't be able to apply for job postings, because it's an essential part of any job application. Just as important, it's a chance to stand out amongst the competition and make that all-important first impression.

Understanding the job description is key. Go back to the job posting and read it thoroughly. Look for any key phrases and words relating to particular skills that are required from the candidate. Understand what the employer is looking for and make sure your skills and experiences align. Next, match keywords from the job description in your resume to show that you're a great potential fit. But, you should never lie on a resume!

One common mistake is submitting a generic resume. Each and every job application should have a specifically tailored resume and cover letter. Also, avoid mentioning irrelevant information and unnecessary filler words. Lastly, be wary of any spelling or grammar errors. Typos can easily ruin your first impression. But, an AI powered resume builder can take care of these minor errors for you.

As a student, your resume should be one page long. With limited professional experience, one page should be enough to highlight your skills, education, volunteering, awards, and accomplishments.

Undoubtedly, positive references from tutors or mentors can be an excellent guarantee of your skills when you don't have much real-life work experience to back them up. But ŕeferences don't usually belong on your resume. Instead, make a separate document with your references and be ready to produce it when asked to do so by the recruiters. You can also include a short note like “ References available upon request ” at the end of your cover letter .

Nikoleta Kuhejda

A journalist by trade, a writer by fate. Nikoleta went from writing for media outlets to exploring the world of content creation with Kickresume and helping people get closer to the job of their dreams. Her insights and career guides have been published by The Female Lead , College Recruiter , and ISIC, among others. When she’s not writing or (enthusiastically) pestering people with questions, you can find her traveling or sipping on a cup of coffee.

Subcategories

• Formal Sciences Student
• High School Student
• Humanities Student
• Student Internship
• Natural Sciences Student
• Professions And Applied Sciences Student
• Social Sciences Student
• University Student

All student resume examples

Related student cover letter examples

Resume guides

How to write a professional resume summary [+examples], how to put your education on a resume [+examples], how to describe your work experience on a resume [+examples], let your resume do the work..

Join 5,000,000 job seekers worldwide and get hired faster with your best resume yet.

• ResumeBuild
• Student Resume

Try our high school and college resume builder for free

• Land a job or a spot at school with our library of easy-to-use resume templates
• Make your resume in minutes with simple step-by-step instructions just for students
• Get pre-written examples and use expert tips to make the process a breeze

Level Up Your Student Resume With Professional Templates

Impress hiring managers and schools with a clean-cut, classic resume that makes your strengths and achievements shine.

Professional

Worried that your resume won’t be taken seriously as a high school or college student? This resume template’s sharp format frames you as an up-and-coming professional to watch.

With its compelling icons and thoughtful use of color, the Cool resume template is a top choice for anyone looking to create an attention-grabbing resume.

Charm hiring managers and schools with an ultra-modern student resume that instantly conveys why you’re a candidate worth interviewing.

Contemporary

You want to be a leader of tomorrow, so shouldn't your student resume look equally forward-thinking? The Contemporary’s eye-catching but refined looks can help you prove you’re a trailblazer.

Effortlessly stand out from the crowd with the Awesome resume template’s unique two-column design and easy-to-read format.

How to Write a Resume Objective or Summary for your Student Resume

In order to impress schools and hiring managers from the get-go, your resume needs to have a strong opening section. That’s why we strongly recommend including a resume summary at the top of your resume, underneath your contact information.

In the past, applicants for schools or jobs could choose between writing a resume objective or a resume summary. Now, resume experts generally agree that including a resume objective is no longer in line with best practice. The reason is that a resume objective essentially highlights your goals as a candidate. In contrast, a resume summary conveys how you will be able to support the school or company you’re applying for to meet their goals.

So what exactly is a resume summary, then? A resume summary is the first major section of your resume. It should succinctly present the case for why you’re an ideal candidate for the position or school you’re applying for. 

As it should only be two to four sentences long, you will need to focus only on your most relevant qualities and attributes that make you an attractive candidate or prospective student.

In order to write a strong resume objective or summary, you must make two things crystal clear:

• What the academic or professional position is you are applying for 
• What makes you the best person to fulfill it

Let’s start with the first part. You should clearly state the purpose of your application. For example, you may wish to:

• Study at a particular college or join a particular program/course 
• Be hired for a job at a college fair or internship fair 
• Be hired as an entry-level worker or summer worker

Next, you must summarize some of the standout qualities and attributes that make you worth considering for the given role. The qualities and attributes you highlight should be directly relevant to the role and should be expanded on in the other sections of your resume. You can mention such things as your:

• Educational background
• Academic achievements
• Soft and hard skills
• Work experiences
• Volunteer work
• Any other standout achievements

Try your best to use keywords from the job advertisement or school application to demonstrate that you possess the very qualities and attributes the hiring manager or school is looking for. 

Keywords are words or phrases within a job ad or school application that represent what the hiring manager or school are looking for from their ideal candidate. Keywords can include particular competencies, skills, experiences, attributes, studies, and so on.

How to Write a Work Experience Section for your Student Resume

The work experience section is perhaps the resume section that students dread the most when creating their high school resume or college resume. The reason is that many students don’t know where to begin or may not have held a job before. 

The good news is that writing a compelling work experience section really isn’t as difficult as it seems - even if you’ve never been in the working world before. In either case, the most important thing is to make sure your work experience section sounds as relevant as possible to the given job or educational opportunity you are applying for. 

If you don’t have any work experience at all, don’t stress! You can instead focus on your: 

• Volunteer work 
• School activities
• Side projects

Spend time brainstorming how to present these experiences in a way that makes them as relevant as possible to the job or school you are applying for. 

For example, did you demonstrate any soft or hard skills that will be useful to the role or your studies? Or maybe you achieved something that showcases what an excellent employee or student you will be? Remember, framing is everything when it comes to your resume! You can do this by integrating keywords that apply to your experiences throughout this section. This will help you to work out what professional experiences will capture the hiring manager or school’s attention. 

However, be sure to steer clear of ‘keyword stuffing’! This term is used to describe when people unnaturally add keywords to their resume in order to game the system. Always integrate keywords in a natural-sounding way and only use those that genuinely apply to your skills and experiences. 

It’s also important to think about this section as a way to showcase your very best professional achievements in each past position. That is, instead of just listing what you did, focus on conveying how your actions and skills made a positive difference.

In order to make your achievements shine, you will need to: 

• Start each one with a verb (action word).
• Make them short and snappy: Stick to one sentence each.
• Quantify them using numbers, percentages, and examples where possible.

For each position you include in this section, you will need to state the title you held, the company name, and the dates you worked there.

If you’re unsure of how to format your work experience section, simply use one of our expert-designed resume templates and our resume builder to ensure you get it right. You can also check out the expert tips for writing your work experience section we’ve included within our resume builder .

How to Write a Skills Section for Your Student Resume

Just like your work experience section, your resume’s skills section should be as relevant as possible to the position or educational opportunity you are applying for. 

Analyze the job ad or school application to identify skill-based keywords. You may wish to print out the job ad or school application and physically highlight these words to make it easier for you to work out which keywords to focus on.

Keep in mind that there are two types of skills to look out for:

• Soft skills: Those related to your interpersonal or communication skills.
• Hard skills: Technical, practical skills.

You will need to include a balance of both to show that you’re a well-rounded candidate. Think carefully about which ones are most applicable to your skillset and the job or school at hand, and list 6 to 8 of the most relevant ones in this section. 

Don’t forget you will also need to integrate skills throughout your work experience section too.

If you’re finding it hard to come up with relevant skills to add to your high school or college resume, don’t worry. Our resume builder has hundreds of examples of skills you can simply click and add to your resume.

Again, if you want to see how to effectively format this section, check out one of our many resume templates.

How to Write an Education & Coursework Section for your Student Resume

Your education & coursework section is one of the most important sections in your high school resume or college resume.

Even if an application does not specifically ask you to share your educational background on your resume, it is generally expected that you will. After all, your studies help to paint a picture of your knowledge, skills, interests, and academic abilities. 

As you can see from our library of resume templates, there are a few different ways that you can format your education & coursework section. That said, the general format of this section is as follows: [High School or College Name]

[Dates attended] 

[Subject studied (optional)]

If you want to guarantee you don’t make any formatting errors, just use our resume builder to create your resume! 

How to Write an Awards & Achievements Section for your Student Resume

Want to take your student resume to the next level? Adding an awards & achievements section is an easy way to capture attention. 

Before you say, “But I don’t have any awards or achievements!” take a moment to think back on your studies so far. Chances are that you have much more to highlight than you first realize. Here are a few ideas to get you thinking:

• Your GPA (If 3.5 or higher)
• Being part of the student body
• Academic awards
• Professional awards
• Valedictorian and Dean’s lists
• Being in the top X% of your class/course
• Professional achievements e.g. selling X amount of products or increasing profits by Y%
• Relevant school/college societies or groups you are part of
• Scholarships
• Any journals you have been published in or research papers you have written
• Relevant non-profit work you have completed (such as volunteering and fundraising)

So how can you correctly format this section of your resume?

You can list each award or achievement, along with the date you received/achieved it and any other specifics that would help the person reading it better understand why the award or achievement is relevant. 

If you are short on space, you can feature your academic awards and achievements in your education & coursework section instead.

Related Student Resume Examples & Samples

Take a look at the following tried-and-tested resume examples and samples for inspiration.

When you’re ready to make your own impressive high school or college resume, our state-of-the-art resume builder will guide you every step of the way.

College Student Resume

High School Student Resume

Internship Resume

How To Make A Resume (With Free Template)

Published: May 7, 2024, 9:00am

Table of Contents

What is a résumé, how to make a résumé, 7 tips for writing a résumé, free résumé template, bottom line, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Whether you’re a college graduate entering the workforce or a parent returning to work after a long time, you need a compelling résumé to show recruiters you’re the best fit for an open position. We’ve compiled the steps you need to take to create your résumé and included a few tips to guide you when building your résumé. You’ll see what goes into a résumé that hiring managers respond to.

A résumé is a formal document recruiters ask applicants for as part of a recruitment process to assess their suitability for a specific role. A résumé provides an overview of your professional background and history, including your qualifications, work experience, skills and notable achievements. It records your professional development and is a potential employer’s first impression of you.

Here’s what a résumé does for you:

• It allows you to market yourself
• It shows recruiters how your experience can contribute to the organization’s growth
• It helps recruiters determine whether or not to call you for the next recruitment step

While there are different types of résumés with various content arrangements and formatting styles, here is the information required to build your résumé.

Add Your Name and Contact Information

When creating your résumé, the first item on your list should be your first and last name and primary contact information—phone number and email address. Also, adding a link to your website, portfolio or professional social media account gives potential employers multiple contact options and insight into your work, especially as a creative. Including your complete mailing address, city and state is also okay if the job listing calls for local applicants.

Include a Professional Summary or Objective

Your professional summary highlights your qualifications, skills and career goals. So, focus on concisely showing how your experience relates to the role you’re applying for. If you’re just getting started, changing careers or returning to the job industry after a break, opt for a professional objective, a summary of how your skills and qualifications can help you do well at the job. However, highlight something valuable the company can gain from you.

Add Your Work Experience

To determine your value, prospective employers examine how you’ve practicalized your knowledge and skills in your previous roles. So, include your previous job titles, organization names, company locations and employment dates. Then, include three to five accomplishments under each role.

Use action words, numbers and outcomes to explain your accomplishment while carrying out your responsibilities. For example, instead of saying you worked on a software updates team, say something such as “developed over 50 software updates that enhanced consumer productivity by 55%.” First-time job seekers can include internship and volunteer experience, but ensure you indicate that it was unpaid.

Include Your Education

List your education history, leaving the highest level at the top. Here are a few things to keep in mind when drafting this section.

• If you graduated more than 10 years ago, there’s no need to include your graduation year
• If you don’t have any work experience, indicate relevant coursework or internship
• If you’re still pursuing a degree or diploma, include the start date, but leave the completion date blank, unless there’s a graduation date
• Include your high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) only if you don’t have a college degree
• If recent, include awards, honors and scholarships and the year you received them

Highlight Relevant Skills

Dedicate a section of your résumé to highlight your hard and soft skills to show recruiters that you’re well-rounded. Aim for six to eight of such skills as are relevant to the role. Soft skills are people skills such as leadership, interpersonal and communication skills, while hard skills are the technical skills required for a specific job. Adding your aptitude, such as “proficient” or “intermediate” can also enhance your value. If applying without work experience, focus on transferable skills such as critical thinking and communication, which are helpful for any role.

Add Relevant Certifications, Licenses and Training

If your job requires certifications, include a section for that below the Education section. List the following.

• Certification or license title
• Certifying body or agency
• Date of certification
• Expiration date (if applicable)

Leverage Your Achievements

To make your résumé set you apart from other candidates, include a section to outline achievements and awards that further highlight your accomplishments and what you can contribute to an organization. These include honors, projects, publications (online or print), volunteer work and leadership positions. Awards show your commendation by those you’ve worked with, while volunteer experience augments your résumé as an applicant without work experience.

Below are a few tips to follow when preparing your résumé.

1. Ask for Help

Speak with those in your field, including peers and career counselors. Glean from their recommendations and pay attention to shared resources’ general language and formatting style.

2. Use the Appropriate Format

Make your résumé easy to scan. A few formatting tips based on what recruiters prefer are:

• Keep your résumé to one page, unless you have over 10 years of work experience. In that case, a two-page résumé is okay
• Set an inch margin on each side of the document
• Use popular fonts such as Times New Roman, Arial, Georgia or Helvetica, and stick to font sizes of 14 to 16 for headers and 10 to 12 for the body
• Choose 1.0 or 1.5 inch line spacing
• Set margins to 1 inch on all sides
• Save your résumé as a PDF or Docx, using your full name and sometimes the job title as the file name
• Adhere to the specific résumé format instructions that came with the call for application

3. Tailor Your Résumé for Each Role

While it’s common to want to include every experience, include only the experience relevant to the role you’re applying for and adjust your summaries, skills, certifications and other information on your résumé to fit that role.

4. Include Necessary Keywords

Since many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) , which use keyword algorithms to filter résumés, ensure you incorporate keywords in the job description. Such keywords will fit right into your work experience and skills highlight sections.

5. Use a Résumé Builder or Template

Consider using a professional résumé template, which only requires you to fill your information in the blank spaces. Human resources (HR) experts design these templates so you can trust them. Plus, they make it easier to build your résumé.

6. Proofread Your Résumé

Review your résumé for grammatical errors, typographical errors and inconsistencies to show recruiters how well you pay attention to details. You can ask someone to read through your resume before sending it over to a recruiter.

7. Keep to Instructions

If a job listing gives specific instructions on the format or content of your résumé, adhere to them to avoid sifting out at an early recruitment stage.

Using a résumé template makes it easier and faster to make a résumé recruiters expect from job applicants. Several résumé templates are available for download, but consider using only those from reliable résumé builders. Customize any of these résumé templates from Indeed and Canva .

Here’s a minimalist résumé template typed out for you.

Name Location Phone number Email address Summary

Work Experience Position Company name Location Description

Skills Skill Years of experience Skill Years of experience

Education School Degree Field of study Location

Your résumé goes ahead of you to help a recruiter determine whether or not they want to interview you to learn more about how your background and experience can fit into an open role and grow their organization. So, ensure you include the necessary information and build your résumé with the tips we’ve collated from HR professionals. They will help you nail your dream job, even if you’re starting out or resuming your career.

What do you put on a résumé if you lack experience?

Even as a fresh graduate or parent returning to the job market, you can draft a résumé that catches a recruiter’s attention by highlighting your transferable skills and completed projects. For example, a fresh graduate can include certifications, volunteer or community service, apprenticeship or internships and extracurricular activities such as club and sports participation.

A returning parent can include nontraditional experiences such as homeschooling and babysitting to demonstrate their leadership and problem-solving skills, amongst the several skills and experiences that come with parenting.

How do I write a résumé to pass an ATS?

You’ll need to study the job post carefully and customize your work experience and keywords to match the primary keywords in the job description . You can also use a résumé writing service to run a free review of your résumé or build a new one from scratch.

Should your résumé be concise or detailed?

Recruiters often spend less than a minute on a résumé since they usually have to review several applications. So, make sure your résumé is concise—comprehensive but brief. “Remember, the goal of your résumé is to land an interview, not to provide every detail about your experience. Once you’re in the conversation, you can share more information about your qualifications.” —Shannon Burkel

• Best Recruiting Software
• Best Applicant Tracking Systems
• Free Resume Database Search
• Free Job Posting Sites
• Indeed Review
• ZipRecruiter Review
• SimplyHired Review
• LinkedIn Review
• Glassdoor Review
• ZipRecruiter vs. Indeed
• Indeed vs. LinkedIn
• Glassdoor vs. Indeed
• Indeed vs. Monster
• ZipRecruiter vs. LinkedIn
• SimplyHired vs. Indeed
• SimplyHired vs. LinkedIn
• How to Hire Employees
• What is Talent Acquisition
• Where to Post Jobs
• How to Find a Recruiter
• How to Post a Job on LinkedIn for Free
• How to Post a Job on Facebook
• How to Post a Job on Indeed
• How to Post a Job on Google
• How to Post a Job on Craigslist
• LinkedIn Job Posting Cost
• Indeed Job Posting Cost
• 10 Effective Recruitment Strategies
• When To Hire In Your Small Business
• How To Find Employees

Next Up In Recruiting

• Best Virtual Assistant Services
• Where To Post Jobs In 2023
• ZipRecruiter Vs. Indeed
• ZipRecruiter Vs. LinkedIn

Oracle vs Salesforce (2024 Comparison)

ClickFunnels Vs. Leadpages (2024 Comparison)

Klaviyo Vs. Mailchimp (2024 Comparison)

7 Amazing Email Marketing Examples In 2024

How To Build An Email List In 2024

What Is Domain Authority And How Can You Improve It?

Christiana Jolaoso-Oloyede writes for media publications, B2B brands and nonprofits. Using her research, analytical and writing skills from her training as a lawyer, she focuses on garnering accurate information from appropriate sources to recommend the best resources and practices for growth.

Study this sample resume and explore the dropdowns below to learn how to craft a quality resume.

Access the full PDF guide to view all sample resumes and detailed advice.

Watch our video on resume-building .  In a hurry? Read our Quick Tips .

Keep it simple. Name should be 14-18pt font. Contact information should be 11-12pt font. Add links such as Github, LinkedIn, or other professional portfolio sites. Make sure that this section is located at the top of the page. Do not put it in the header section of Word/Google Docs (that is, in the top margin) to ensure readability and Applicant Tracking System (ATS) compliance.

Summary (also called the Profile) is optional. If you choose to include this, make sure that it is highly tailored to the field you are pursuing. Express your goals and value beyond “looking for a summer internship”.

The Summary should be located between your Name & Contact and your Education sections.

Arrange your Degree and University along the left margin and your expected Graduation Date and GPA (if it is above a 3.5) along the right margin. Consider putting your Degree in bold to better highlight your skills and knowledge.

Align on the left margin and make a list or use bullet point formatting to ensure Applicant Tracking System compliance. Only list coursework that clearly demonstrates your value.

Be sure to spell out the title of the class; most people outside of UTD will not recognize the course abbreviation/numbers.

Classify your skills if you have many. Otherwise, start at the left margin and make a list. As long as you can honestly speak to your ability, you can add it to your Skills section. Don’t sell yourself short!

Soft skills (for instance, communication, active listening, customer service) do not go in the Skills section. Rather, work these into your bullet points.

Experiences can be Professional or Academic. In both cases, be sure to build out the sections like you would for a job—clearly demonstrate the skills you used and the results you gained. For Academic Experience, do not simply discuss the end results of the app you built or the topic you wrote a paper about. Keep in mind that you likely will not be hired to create that exact app again, but you will be called upon to use those hard and soft skills again. Sell your skills, not the particular project.

Start with a strong action verb. Try not to repeat the same verb.

Be specific—you want the potential employer to clearly picture your skillsets and work style.

Use a model like WHO ( What you did, How you did it, Outcome /Purpose) to ensure that you are covering all the important information. See our full guide for more examples of the WHO model and for other effective models. Add metrics—quantify where possible.

Add any experiences that you believe will help showcase you as a professional. Athletics or other non-industry organizations can be added; however, be sure to prioritize industry-related content on your resume. Do not add hobbies unless you are affiliated with an organization (for instance, a UTD Baking Club would be all right to list. However, you would not want to list simply “baking”.

Awards can go close to the end of your resume. You can also consider adding scholarships as part of your Education section.

The University of Texas at Dallas

University Career Center

Student Services Building 3.300

800 W. Campbell Road Richardson, Texas 75080-3021

972-883-2943

Privacy Policy

©  The University of Texas at Dallas

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Welcome to the Purdue Online Writing Lab

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

The Online Writing Lab at Purdue University houses writing resources and instructional material, and we provide these as a free service of the Writing Lab at Purdue. Students, members of the community, and users worldwide will find information to assist with many writing projects. Teachers and trainers may use this material for in-class and out-of-class instruction.

The Purdue On-Campus Writing Lab and Purdue Online Writing Lab assist clients in their development as writers—no matter what their skill level—with on-campus consultations, online participation, and community engagement. The Purdue Writing Lab serves the Purdue, West Lafayette, campus and coordinates with local literacy initiatives. The Purdue OWL offers global support through online reference materials and services.

A Message From the Assistant Director of Content Development 

The Purdue OWL® is committed to supporting  students, instructors, and writers by offering a wide range of resources that are developed and revised with them in mind. To do this, the OWL team is always exploring possibilties for a better design, allowing accessibility and user experience to guide our process. As the OWL undergoes some changes, we welcome your feedback and suggestions by email at any time.

Please don't hesitate to contact us via our contact page  if you have any questions or comments.

All the best,

Social Media

Facebook twitter.

Free All-in-One Office Suite with PDF Editor

Edit Word, Excel, and PPT for FREE.

Read, edit, and convert PDFs with the powerful PDF toolkit.

Microsoft-like interface, easy to use.

Windows • MacOS • Linux • iOS • Android

Select areas that need to improve

• Didn't match my interface
• Too technical or incomprehensible
• Incorrect operation instructions
• Incomplete instructions on this function

Fields marked * are required please

Please leave your suggestions below

• Quick Tutorials
• Practical Skills

How to Convert Word to PDF [For Students]

To ensure the sharing and security of your documents, instructors or teachers often require essays to be submitted in PDF format. However, finding a reliable conversion tool can be challenging. Many recommended tools either require payment or fail to preserve the formatting adequately. I too faced these issues until I discovered the life-saving tool I'll introduce to you in this article.

When to Convert Word to PDF?

In the academic world, ensuring your work is presented flawlessly is crucial. Converting your Word documents to PDFs offers several advantages:

Professorial Preferences : Many professors prefer submissions in PDF format for your essays, research papers, or thesis/dissertation. The major reason for this is to ensure that the academic style, such as APA or MLA, is maintained without formatting issues. Submitting in a Word document can cause problems because different writing software may interpret the formatting differently. Take Microsoft's recent update, for example, where the official font has been set to Aptos. If your document is in Aptos style and your professor uses a different office suite, there may be an error in the font.

Resume Readiness : For job applications or academic program admissions, a PDF resume maintains a professional appearance. It eliminates formatting inconsistencies that might occur when using different word processing software.

Application Advantage : The same principle applies to any application materials. Converting them to PDFs ensures consistent formatting, regardless of the receiving system. This allows your application to showcase your qualifications flawlessly.

How to Convert Word to PDF [Basic]

To answer the question of "How to Convert Word to PDF ," we will be using the free and powerful WPS Office, an office suite that I use daily for several reasons. One of them is converting PDFs without losing any formatting, providing an easy and complete solution. This is beneficial for students working on their thesis during their studies or preparing their resumes for future job applications. Converting to PDFs in a few easy steps, alongside the common issue faced by Microsoft Word users where bookmarks are not exported, can easily be addressed in WPS Office.

The Easiest Method: Save Word Documents as PDF Using 'Save As

My preferred method for everyday conversion is using the simple 'Save as' feature, where I can ask WPS Writer to save my Word documents in other file formats, be it PDF or another format for some other use. WPS Writer is always my go-to choice. So let's learn how to save a Word document as a PDF by following these simple steps:

Step 1 : Open your resume, job application, or essay document in WPS Writer that you want to convert to PDF.

Step 2 : Click on the "Menu" button at the top left corner of the WPS Writer interface.

Step 3 : In the Menu, select the "Save as" option, then choose the "Other Formats" option from the flyout menu.

Step 4 : The Save as window will appear. Set the file type to "PDF Format (*.pdf)" in the "File Type" field.

Step 5 : Users can also change the file name for their PDF document and adjust the location where they wish to save it. After making all the necessary settings, click on "Save" to convert Word to PDF.

This feature is very similar to the one offered by Microsoft Office, but Microsoft Office doesn't provide a PDF solution in its office suite, whereas WPS Office stays with me throughout the journey after the document has been completed, offering a PDF conversion for free. This makes WPS Office an office suite for students looking to convert Word to PDF with easy solutions.

Convert Your Writing to PDF Containing the Structure

The second method involves advanced conversion of your Word document to PDF to retain the structure of your document, especially for lengthy documents. The problem I found with normally converting Word documents to PDF using Microsoft Word was that there were no bookmarks in the PDF version of my document. To recall what these bookmarks are, you may have used textbooks in PDF form during your academic cycle, so jumping from one section to another with a single click is possible if the bookmarks have been retained in the structure.

Now, let's say your professor is going through your dissertation or thesis, and they want to jump to a section like an exhibit, so with bookmarks, it becomes easier to navigate. Upon learning how to convert Word to PDF using Microsoft Word, I found out that the method was really complex as it involved several steps. But with my free Word to PDF converter , WPS Office, this only involves one single click to get bookmarks. Here is how students can make their PDF navigation easier using the following conversion tool:

Step 1 : Let's open our lengthy Word document in WPS Writer to convert it to PDF.

Step 2 : Now, click on the Menu button located at the top right corner.

Step 3 : In the Menu, click on the "Export to PDF" option for a more enhanced PDF conversion.

Step 4 : In the Export to PDF window, visit the "Advanced Settings" options to change the default settings.

Step 5 : Now, in the Content section of the Advanced Settings window, make sure to check the "Bookmark" checkbox to convert the Word document to PDF, then click on "Confirm".

Step 6 : Upon returning to the Export to PDF window, look for any additional settings such as the file location or change the name of the output PDF, then hit "Export to PDF".

Your academic work has now been converted to PDF with all bookmarks, making it easier for navigation. As soon as you convert your Word document, you get yet another benefit of WPS Office: a dedicated PDF viewer and editor, so no need to download a separate PDF software. WPS Office, a single office suite, is all you need for all your academic endeavors.

Use WPS AI to Polish Your Writing

WPS Office has become a cornerstone for many, offering plenty of effortless solutions that have undoubtedly saved countless hours and improved productivity. Its suite of tools simplifies the writing and document creation process, making it accessible and user-friendly for students and professionals alike. However, where WPS Office truly shines is in its comprehensive PDF tools, which offer an unparalleled level of functionality and versatility.

Here's how students can utilize WPS AI Spell Check to ensure there are no inconsistencies in their academic work before submission:

Step 1 : Go to the Review tab in WPS Writer and click on the "AI Spell Check" button.

Step 2 : This will open WPS AI Spell Check on the right side of the interface.

Step 3 : To ensure you're following the correct formatting of your current academic style, click on "Set Goals".

Step 4 : Now, set your goal by selecting the Domain as "Academic".

Step 5 : Next, simply choose the format of your document. This will ensure that you're correctly following all the guidelines laid out by the academic style you're following.

For students, the scope of WPS AI becomes even more apparent. Not only does it provide invaluable assistance in writing and formatting academic papers, but it also serves as a comprehensive tool for document management and organization. With WPS Office and its AI capabilities at their disposal, students can tackle assignments and projects with confidence, knowing that they have a powerful ally to support them every step of the way.

Here's how students can enhance the quality of their work using WPS AI Writer:

Step 1 : Select the text or section you want to improve using your cursor.

Step 2 : Once the text is selected, right-click to open the context menu.

Step 3 : From the context menu, click on the "WPS AI" icon to enable WPS AI Assistant.

Step 4 : Once WPS AI is activated, a set of options will be displayed in a context menu. Click on "Improve Writing".

Step 5 : WPS AI will process your request and display an improved version of the section. Students can choose to either discard the result or use it in their work.

Students have found a significant source of relief in WPS AI, particularly with its spell check and AI writer functionalities. These tools offer more than just basic corrections; they provide a comprehensive solution for refining content in terms of tone, style, and vocabulary. With WPS AI, students can effortlessly enhance the quality of their writing, ensuring clarity and professionalism in their work.

One of the standout features of WPS AI is its ability to provide summaries and direct answers extracted from PDF documents. This functionality streamlines the research process, allowing students to quickly grasp the main points of complex texts without having to read through them entirely. Also, WPS AI offers the option to shorten or expand content as needed, providing flexibility in tailoring the length and depth of academic papers or other written assignments.

Effortless PDF Workflows with WPS Office

WPS PDF is not like other PDF tools and has made a distinguished name for itself from other free Word to PDF converters in several ways, offering enhanced functionality and reliability, especially when handling multiple documents and preserving formatting:

No Daily Limits : Many free converters impose daily limits on conversions, which can be restrictive when dealing with numerous documents. WPS Office, however, does not have such limitations. This means that users can convert as many documents as needed without worrying about hitting a cap.

Batch PDF Export : The premium version of WPS Office includes a batch PDF export function, which enables users to convert multiple documents simultaneously. This feature is invaluable for streamlining workflow and saving time, particularly in professional settings where efficiency is paramount. For instance, imagine you're compiling a series of reports for a business presentation. With WPS Office's batch PDF export function, you can quickly convert all the reports into PDF format with just a few clicks, ensuring a smooth and polished presentation.

Preservation of Formatting : One of the most common concerns when converting documents to PDF is the risk of format distortion. WPS Office excels in preserving the formatting of documents, ensuring that the converted PDFs retain the same appearance and layout as the original files. For example, when converting a Word document with headings and subheadings to PDF, the bookmarks in the exported PDF file accurately reflect the structure of the document, making it easy for readers to navigate. In contrast, issues with bookmarks and formatting discrepancies have been reported when using other converters, such as Microsoft Word's built-in conversion feature.

Resume Templates : WPS Office offers a wide selection of professionally designed resume templates, making it easy for users to create polished and visually appealing resumes with minimal effort. These templates cover a range of industries and job roles, allowing users to find the perfect design to suit their needs.

Resumes can be effortlessly converted to PDFs using WPS Office's PDF tool, offering the simplest method I've encountered for maintaining formatting consistency and facilitating easy sharing.

Step 1 : Open your resume document in WPS Writer.

Step 2 : Go to the "Student Tools" tab and click on the "Annotate in PDF Format" option in the ribbon.

Step 3 : This will instantly create a PDF of your resume and open it in a new tab within WPS Office.

FAQs about Converting Word to PDF

Q1. why can’t  i convert word to pdf.

If you're unable to convert a Word document to PDF, consider the following solutions:

Check if the document is checked out : Ensure that no other user is currently editing or has the document checked out. You need exclusive access to convert it to PDF.

Remove password protection : Make sure the document isn't protected by a password. Password-protected documents can't be opened for conversion, causing conversion failures.

Verify the document size : Check if the file size is within the permissible limits for conversion. Large files may fail to convert properly. For example, Word documents should be smaller than 10 MB (10,485,760 bytes) for successful conversion to PDF. If the file size exceeds this limit, the conversion may fail with an error message indicating that the file size exceeds the maximum allowed size for Word conversions.

Q2. Why was I unable to save Word as a PDF?

You may be unable to save your Word document as a PDF if the app cannot locate your file's contents. To address this issue, follow these steps:

Step 1 : Open the Word document you wish to save as a PDF.

Step 2 : Go to the "File" menu and select "Share".

Step 3 : Choose "Send PDF" to create a PDF version of your document that you can share via email.

Q3. Why should students convert a document to PDF?

For students, converting a document to PDF resolves compatibility issues that may arise when opening files on different computers. Documents containing tables and graphs can sometimes have messy layouts on various devices, but PDFs maintain consistent presentation and readability across desktop computers and mobile devices. It ensures accessibility and allows students to access their documents smoothly, regardless of the device they're using. Whether switching devices or sharing files with others, PDFs provide a reliable format for consistent document viewing.

A Students Solution for PDF Conversions

As a former student, I understand the struggle of finding a reliable PDF tool. However, when I discovered WPS PDF, I knew my search was over. From that moment until now, WPS PDF has catered to all my needs seamlessly. Students will find themselves relying on it time and again. Whether creating PDFs for resumes or submitting essays, converting to PDFs has never been easier with WPS Office. With just one simple step of exporting to PDF, all the problems are solved—and for free. Download WPS Office today to experience its PDF capabilities firsthand.

• 1. How to Use Track Changes in Word for Your Essay? [For Students]
• 2. How to Insert Degree Symbol in Word [For Students]
• 3. How to Do Hanging Indent in Word for Your Essay? [For Students]
• 4. How to Insert Signatures in Word [For Students]
• 5. How to Check Word Count for Your Essays in Word [For Students]
• 6. Superscript or Subscript in Word [For Students]

15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.