How to Build a High School Resume for Military Service?

Hey everyone, as part of considering my options after high school, the military has crossed my mind. I want to ensure my resume aligns with that possible path. Any solid advice on what to emphasize or add to my resume that could increase my chances of being accepted for military service? Cheers!

Hello! It's fantastic you're considering various paths beyond high school. If you're considering serving in the military, there are a couple of areas you may want to focus on.

Firstly, physical fitness is hugely important in the military, so joining a varsity sports team, participating in regular physical activities, or improving your physical fitness and wellness can be beneficial. The service branches each have specific fitness standards, so it's a great idea to familiarize yourself with these and steadily work towards meeting or surpassing them.

Leadership experience is another crucial element highly valued by the military. If you can acquire leadership roles within clubs, sports teams, or community organizations, that will be beneficial. This could include positions like team captain, club president, or project lead for a community service initiative.

Demonstrating teamwork and being able to work well with others is also crucial in the military. Participating in group activities, such as team sports, band, choir, or drama, can illustrate your ability to function as part of a team.

Character traits like resilience, discipline, and integrity are also crucial in the military. You can demonstrate these characteristics through various activities, like holding a part-time job while maintaining good grades and staying involved in extracurricular activities. It can also be beneficial to showcase any involvement in organizations dedicated to character development, such as Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Junior ROTC, etc.

Lastly, showing dedication to service can make you stand out as a prospective military candidate. This could be through volunteer work, community service, or any other activity that involves helping others or giving back to your community.

Each branch of the military has its own specific requirements and valued qualities, so it's also worthwhile to research the particular area in which you're interested to tailor your resume accordingly. It's always a good idea to add any certificates or qualifications you might have, such as first aid or CPR certification.

Remember that the military recruiters are looking for individuals who have strong leadership potential, physical fitness, and a deep commitment to service, among other things. Aim to show that you are a well-rounded individual who is ready to meet the challenges of military service. Best of luck with your preparations!