Completing a job application as a high school student?

I've found a couple of job applications I want to fill out, but I'm not sure what to include from my high school experiences. What are some things I should definitely highlight or mention?

When filling out a job application as a high school student, it's a great opportunity to demonstrate any transferrable skills you have developed through various activities and experiences. Although you might not have formal work experience, any involvement in extracurricular activities, volunteer work, leadership roles, and even coursework can be extremely beneficial to mention.

Start by making a comprehensive list of all your experiences and accomplishments during high school. This could include things like club membership, sports participation, any positions of leadership (like student council or team captain), or noteworthy academic achievements.

Next, think about the skills you used or developed in these roles and experiences. For example, if you were a part of a club, you may have developed organization and team-working skills. If you've taken rigorous courses or worked on large projects, you could emphasize your problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, or resilience. If you've volunteered, you can mention your communication, empathy, and community service skills.

Lastly, tailor your application to the job you're applying to. Read through the job description and identify what skills or qualities they're looking for. Match up your own skills, experiences, and qualities with those required for the job.

For example, if you're applying to a retail job and you were the president of a school club, you might highlight how you demonstrated leadership and communication skills, or how you managed time or resolved group conflicts.

However, remember to be truthful and authentic - never exaggerate or lie about any of your experiences or skills! It's also important to remember that your lack of formal work experience isn't a drawback. Employers hiring high school students understand that you're at the beginning of your career journey and they're primarily interested in your enthusiasm, reliability, and potential to learn.