Do colleges ask international transfer students for resumes?

I'm an international student planning to transfer colleges, and one school mentioned providing a resume. What kind of information are they looking for on a resume, and how important is it in the transfer process?

Yes, as part of the transfer application process, certain colleges may ask international transfer students to submit a resume. Keep in mind, however, that not all schools will request this, so it's important to thoroughly review the application instructions for each institution you apply to.

A college resume is different from a professional one as it doesn't just focus on work experience but encompasses a broad view of you as a student. You should aim to include:

1. Educational Information: This will typically entail details about your high school and current college, including the name, location, dates of attendance, coursework undertaken, and academic performance (like GPA).

2. Work Experience: Include any part-time jobs, internships, or co-ops you've participated in, even if they don't directly relate to your projected field of study. Make sure to note your role, responsibilities, and any significant achievements.

3. Extracurricular Activities: If you've taken part in clubs, sports, theatre, or other similar activities during college, make sure to mention them. Include any leadership roles you've held as this will signify your ability to take initiative and manage responsibilities.

4. Volunteering and Community Engagement: If you've done any community service or participated in volunteer initiatives, these are excellent additions to your resume. They reflect your willingness to give back to the community and provide a comprehensively wholesome image of you as a student.

5. Skills: Languages, technical skills like coding or graphic design, and soft skills like public speaking or teamwork should also be mentioned.

6. Awards or Recognitions: If you've received any academic or community-oriented awards, they should be included in your resume.

The importance of a resume in the transfer process may vary depending on the college. For some schools, it might just be a part of the standard application process, whereas, in others, it could provide valuable context about your personal qualities, abilities, and experiences that aren't well-represented elsewhere in your application. Always try to adapt your resume to the specifics of the institution you're applying to. Review their mission statement, culture, and course structure, and highlight those aspects of your profile that best match the school's ethos and requirements.