Hey guys, I've been working on my resume and I'm not sure what high school accomplishments I should include. What would colleges like to see? I've participated in a few clubs and have a decent GPA. Any advice would be much appreciated!
When creating a resume to showcase your high school accomplishments, focus on including achievements that demonstrate your involvement, dedication, and personal growth. Here are some ideas on what to include in your resume:
1. Academic Achievements: Your GPA is an essential aspect of your resume, but you can also mention any academic awards you've received, such as honor roll, National Honor Society membership, or department-specific awards (e.g., Math, Science, History).
2. Extracurricular Activities: Highlight your participation in clubs, sports, and other non-academic pursuits, and be sure to mention any leadership positions like club president, team captain, or event organizer.
3. Volunteer Work / Community Service: Show your commitment to helping others and your local community through volunteer work, such as working at a food bank, helping with local events, or participating in community cleanup days.
4. Internships / Job Experiences: If you've had any part-time jobs, internships, or work experiences during your high school years, include these to demonstrate responsibility, dedication, and real-world experience.
5. Awards / Recognitions: Don't forget to mention any accomplishments that have earned you recognition, like placing in a regional competition, winning a talent show, or receiving a scholarship.
6. Unique / Special Interests: If you have an unusual hobby or skill that sets you apart from other applicants, include it on your resume to make it more memorable and showcase your well-rounded interests.
7. Projects / Coursework: If you've undertaken any substantial individual or group projects during your high school career (such as a science fair project, research paper, or school mural), describe the project and any accolades it received.
Remember that quality is more important than quantity. Focus on achievements that genuinely reflect your interests and dedication and demonstrate your potential to contribute positively to a college community. Since college admissions officers often look for students with a "spike"—a well-developed specialty—highlighting your strengths within a particular area can help your resume stand out.
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