I'm applying for a summer job and need to create my first resume. What are some key things I should include as a high school student without much work experience?
Your first resume might seem challenging, but bear in mind that everyone starts from somewhere, and the purpose of a resume is to show potential employers what you can offer based on your experiences, skills, and attributes. Here are key things you should consider including in your resume as a high schooler:
1. Contact Information: Your full name, home address, phone number, and professional email address should be listed at the top of your resume.
2. Objective Statement: This is a 1-2 sentence statement at the top of your resume that describes your career goals and why you're applying for the job. Make it specific to the job you're applying for.
3. Education: You should list your high school, the city and state, and your expected graduation year. If you have an above-average GPA, you might want to include that as well.
4. Skills: Create a list of skills that you have that could be useful in a job setting. This might include things like computer skills, proficiency in a foreign language, or strong communication abilities.
5. Extracurricular Activities: If you're involved in school clubs, sports, or other organized activities, be sure to mention these. They can demonstrate a sense of commitment, leadership, and teamwork.
6. Work Experience: You mentioned that you don't have much work experience; however, any sort of experience like babysitting, dog walking, tutoring, or lawn mowing, no matter how informal, counts. Be sure to list the nature of the job, your responsibilities, and any notable accomplishments.
7. Volunteer Work: This is a good chance to showcase your community involvement. Again, list the nature of the work, your responsibilities, and any impacts you made.
8. Awards and Achievements: If you've received any academic or community awards, be sure to include them.
Remember, it's all about demonstrating your abilities, commitment, and potential to the employer - you've got this!
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