Should I include my high school job on college applications?

I'm applying to college soon and I'm wondering if it's a good idea to mention my high school job on my applications. Will it look impressive or relevant to admissions officers? I'm hoping it might show responsibility and work ethic.

Absolutely, you should definitely include your high school job on your college applications. It's a significant part of your high school experience, and it demonstrates qualities such as responsibility, time management, and work ethic. It also may provide an interesting perspective to share, depending on what kind of job it was and what experiences you had.

However, the impact of your job on your application varies based on factors such as the nature of the job, how long you held it, and how it relates to your future academic or career aspirations. For instance, if you were employed in a position that connects to your intended major—like working in a tech store for a computer science major—that could potentially be more effective.

Bear in mind that it's not just about having a job, but what you did with it. Were you able to make significant contributions? Did you take on leadership roles or responsibilities? Did you learn something valuable from the experience? These are questions to consider as you present this experience on your application.

For example, if you worked part-time at a local grocery store, you might highlight skills you developed in customer service, teamwork, or problem-solving. If you worked at a summer camp, perhaps you can discuss leadership and communication skills you gained while working with children.

In summary, including your high school job on college applications can be beneficial, but ensure you're highlighting your experiences and skills developed in a way that enhances your overall application.