Listing seasonal work on a resume—best practices?

I'm updating my resume and I need to include my seasonal work experience. How should I list it to make it look professional and highlight the skills I gained? Any ideas on what might impress college admissions?

When it comes to including your seasonal work on your resume, it's essential to keep certain points in mind. Always list the job title, organization, and the specific dates during which you worked. Seasonal opportunities often offer a host of unique experiences, and it's important to shed some light on these in your resume.

For example, let’s say you worked as a Retail Sales Associate over the summer for XYZ Store. Here's how that could look:

Retail Sales Associate, XYZ Store, June - August 2024

- Provided excellent customer service to over 50 customers per day, improving overall customer satisfaction.

- Handled transactions accurately, demonstrating solid math and organizational skills.

- Assisted in maintaining store cleanliness, displaying strong attention to detail and dedication.

Try to focus on showcasing your achievements rather than just listing your responsibilities. Ask yourself what you accomplished during your time in the role and how it could be relevant to your college applications. Consider including soft skills college admissions often look for, like teamwork, leadership, communication, problem-solving, or time management, if they apply.

Another good practice is to tailor the points you mention under the job to align your experience with the skills/traits the college values or the demands of the course you're applying for. This not only makes your resume more relevant but also demonstrates forethought and initiative.

And finally, always use consistent, professional language throughout your resume. For instance, use action verbs—like 'facilitated', 'managed', or 'assisted'—to lead your points. This can make your resume more compelling and easier to read.

Remember, the goal is to illustrate that even as a seasonal worker, you were able to make a significant contribution and amplifying these experiences strategically can definitely impress a college admissions committee.