How to Build a High School Resume for College Scholarships?

What are some key elements that make a high school resume stand out when applying for college scholarships? I want to ensure I include the right details to improve my chances. Any advice on what colleges are looking for?!

When crafting your high school resume for college scholarships, it's crucial to highlight both your academic achievements and extracurricular involvement. Here are key elements you should include:

1. Personal Details: Start with your name, high school, expected graduation year, and contact information.

2. Academic Achievements: Outline your GPA (if it's strong), class rank (if available), and any honors or AP classes you've taken. Include any academic awards or recognitions you've received.

3. Test Scores: If your standardized test scores are strong, consider including them. However, remember the adoption of test-blind policies by Cal State and UC schools. They do not consider SAT or ACT scores at all, and other highly selective colleges like Stanford and UChicago are still test-optional.

4. Extracurricular Activities: Colleges perceive activities in 4 tiers, with Tier 1 being national level achievements and Tier 4 being general membership in a club or community service. It's beneficial to display a mix of activities across these tiers, with a focus on Tier 1 and 2 activities, which can create a 'spike' in your profile by demonstrating a high level of accomplishment in a certain field.

5. Leadership Roles: Being a team captain or club president, for example, shows initiative, responsibility, and the ability to work with others.

6. Community Service: Scholarships often value students who give back to their community. Include any regular volunteer work or service projects you've been part of.

7. Work Experience: Whether it's a part-time job, internship, or summer job, this can show commitment, responsibility, and skills such as communication and time management.

8. Other Skills or Interests: If you're fluent in another language, play an instrument, or have other relevant skills, make sure to include these.

Remember, your high school resume should be succinct and easy to read, typically no more than 1-2 pages. Use bullet points and action verbs to clearly state your achievements and impacts in each activity. Tailoring your resume to fit the values or focus area of the scholarship can also give you an edge; if the scholarship values community service, for example, highlight your volunteering experiences.

Finally, make sure your resume is free of errors. It's always good to have another person—maybe a teacher, counselor, or parent—review it for clarity and mistakes.