Struggling with writing a resume for college scholarships—any tips?

I'm applying for multiple scholarships and need to submit a resume with each application. What format should I follow, and what's typically expected for a high school student applying for scholarships?

It's great that you're applying for scholarships! A well-crafted resume can certainly enhance your chances of success. Here are some tips on how to prepare a compelling resume:

1. Contact Information: Include your full name, phone number, email address, and mailing address at the top of your resume.

2. Objective: Though optional, it is a good idea to add a brief objective that explains your career goals and why you are seeking a scholarship.

3. Education: Include your high school name, location, your graduation date (or prospective graduation date), and your GPA. Mention any relevant courses or projects, too.

4. Extracurricular Activities: Detail the activities you are involved in outside the classroom - be it sports teams, clubs, student council, or community organizations. Note any leadership roles or significant accomplishments within these activities. This section plays a pivotal role in showcasing your well-roundedness, and remember that depth of involvement is more important than the sheer number of activities.

5. Work Experience: If you've had part-time jobs, internships or summer employment, list these experiences in reverse chronological order, leading with the most recent. For each role, provide a brief description, including responsibilities and achievements.

6. Volunteering/Community Service: Include any volunteer work, community service, or charitable activities. If available, provide details of the organization, your role, duration, activities performed, and any impact or achievement.

7. Skills: List relevant skills that you've developed - this could range from technical skills like proficiency in a coding language to soft skills like leadership and public speaking. Make sure these skills tie back to your scholarship goals.

8. Awards/Honors: If you've received any notable academic awards, competition victories, honors, or any recognition, be sure to mention them – these give credibility to your achievements.

9. References: If the scholarship board has asked for references, include the name, title, and contact details of people who can vouch for your character and competencies. Always make sure to ask these referees in advance if they're willing to support your application.

Lastly, remember to keep your resume concise and preferably limit it to a single page. Also, make sure to proofread it for any typos or errors. For the format, a simple, clear, and professional design usually works best - avoid any unusual fonts, colors, or formats that can distract from your content. Showcase your skills, achievements, and experiences to highlight why you're an ideal candidate for the scholarship. Good luck!