College student writing a resume at a desk.

How To Write A College Resume (What You Need To Know)

February 7, 2025 ResumeProWorks Career Expert

Writing a college resume can feel like you're trying to sum up your entire life on one page. It's not just about listing your achievements—it's about telling your story in a way that makes you stand out. From choosing the right template to deciding which skills to highlight, every detail matters. This guide will walk you through the process, offering tips and tricks to make your resume the best it can be.

Key Takeaways

Your resume is more than a list of accomplishments; it's a personal story.
Choose a template that reflects your style but remains professional.
Contact info should be clear and professional—ditch the silly email addresses.
Highlight experiences and skills that truly represent you.
Keep your resume updated and ready for any opportunity.

The Art of Crafting a College Resume

Why Your Resume is More Than Just Paper

Crafting a college resume is like sculpting a masterpiece—only instead of marble, you're working with words. Your resume is more than just paper; it's a snapshot of who you are, what you've done, and where you're headed. Think of it as your personal highlight reel, showcasing your greatest hits to the admission committee. It's not just about listing jobs or grades; it's about telling your story in a way that makes them want to be part of your journey.

The Emotional Rollercoaster of Resume Writing

Ah, the emotional rollercoaster of resume writing. One minute you're on a high, remembering that time you spearheaded a project that saved the day, and the next you're spiraling into self-doubt, wondering if organizing your sock drawer counts as a skill. It's a wild ride, filled with moments of triumph and despair. But hang in there! Every twist and turn is part of the process, and by the end, you'll have a resume that truly reflects your unique path.

How to Infuse Personality into Your Resume

Infusing personality into your resume is like adding the perfect amount of spice to a dish. You want it to stand out, but not overwhelm. Use your words to paint a picture of who you are beyond the bullet points. Share your passions, your quirks, and your dreams. Be the person who stands out because they dared to be different, not just another name on the list. Remember, your resume is your chance to shine, so let your personality sparkle through.

Choosing the Right Template: Because Looks Matter

College resume template on a desk with stationery.

The resume is your first impression, so it better be a good one! Picking the right template is like choosing the perfect outfit for a big date. First impressions count, and you want your resume to look as sharp as you do.

Serif vs. Sans-Serif: The Font Battle

Fonts can be a bit of a battlefield. On one side, we have serif fonts like Times New Roman with their little feet, giving off a traditional vibe. On the other, sans-serif fonts like Arial, which are modern, clean, and footless. Which one to choose? It depends on the vibe you're going for. Serif for a classic feel, sans-serif for something a bit more contemporary.

The One-Page Rule: Less is More

Here's a golden rule: keep it to one page. Admissions folks have a ton of resumes to sift through, and they're not going to appreciate a novel. Keep it concise. Highlight the best bits of your journey and leave them wanting more.

White Space: Your Resume's Best Friend

Don't underestimate the power of white space. It's like the breathing room for your resume. Margins and spaces between sections make your resume easier on the eyes and help the important stuff stand out. Think of it as the "ahh" factor for your layout.

A well-chosen template doesn't guarantee you'll get the job, but it sure helps you look the part. It's like having a runway-ready outfit for your career's big debut.

For more tips and examples, check out our guide on crafting a college resume that includes templates to get you started.

Contact Information: The Basics with a Twist

Why Your Email Address Matters More Than You Think

Alright, let's dive into the world of email addresses, shall we? Your email is more than just a digital address; it's like your resume's first handshake. Imagine sending your resume to a potential employer with an email like "fluffybunny123@email.com". Not the best first impression, right? Stick to something simple and professional, like your first and last name. This isn't the time to showcase your love for your pet hamster.

The Phone Number Dilemma: To Include or Not to Include

Ah, the phone number debate. Should you or shouldn't you? Well, if you're applying for a position where they might actually need to call you, then yes, include it. But make sure it's a number you actually answer. Nobody wants to play phone tag with your voicemail. And please, double-check that you haven't accidentally listed your grandma's number instead of yours.

How to Make Your Name Stand Out

Your name is your brand, so let it shine! Use a larger font size compared to the rest of your resume, but don't go overboard—you're not making a billboard. Italicize it if you want a touch of flair, but keep it readable. Consider using a bold font to make sure it catches the eye without being obnoxious. Remember, your name is the first thing people see, so make it pop!

Your contact information is the gateway to your future. Keep it clean, professional, and true to who you are. After all, it's your first impression in the world of resumes.

Education and Experience: Showcasing Your Journey

Highlighting Your Academic Achievements

Alright, let's start with the obvious: your education section. This is where you get to brag about all those late nights studying and countless cups of coffee. It's not just about listing schools and degrees; it's about telling a story of your academic journey. Begin with your most recent education and work backward, like rewinding a VHS tape (ask your parents if you don't know what that is). Make sure to include the name of your school, degree, and major. If you've got a GPA that makes your mom proud or any fancy honors, throw those in too. Remember, this is your academic highlight reel.

"Your education is like a fine wine; it gets better with age and the right presentation."

Turning Extracurriculars into Eye-Catchers

Extracurricular activities aren't just for filling up your weekends. They're your secret weapon to show off your interests and skills outside the classroom. Whether you were the president of the underwater basket-weaving club or led the school band, these experiences matter. List them in reverse chronological order, just like your education. Highlight not just what you did, but what you achieved. Did you organize a fundraiser that raised more money than your school's annual budget? Say it loud and proud! Use numbers to give context and scale to your accomplishments.

The Secret to Writing About Work Experience

Now, onto work experience. Even if you've only worked part-time or volunteered, it counts! Your work experience section is where you prove you've got the chops to handle responsibility. Use action verbs to describe your roles and achievements. Instead of saying "I did this," say "managed," "led," or "developed." It sounds way cooler. Also, be specific. If you babysat, mention how many kids you handled at once (if it was more than three, you're basically a superhero). And remember, list your experiences in reverse chronological order. It's like telling a story, but with fewer dragons and more real-world achievements.

Skills and Awards: Flaunt What You've Got

Student with resume and awards in bright study space.

Avoiding Clichés: Skills That Actually Impress

Alright, let's tackle the skills section of your college resume. We've all seen those resumes filled with "punctual," "hard-working," and "team-player." Boring, right? Instead, let’s focus on skills that make you stand out. Highlight what makes you unique—maybe you’re a Google Drive wizard or you can code like a pro. Here’s a quick list to consider:

Technical Skills: Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, HTML, CSS.
Language Skills: Fluent in Spanish, Intermediate French.
Soft Skills: Strong communication, leadership.

Remember, it’s not about listing every skill under the sun. Pick those that truly add to your story.

Awards and Honors: Bragging Rights Done Right

Think of this section as your trophy case. Maybe you snagged first place in the school science fair or were one of only 200 students chosen for a special program. Here's how to list them:

Name the award and, if it's obscure, explain it.
Include the organization and date.
Use numbers to give context—first place out of how many?

These details not only show your achievements but also tell a story of dedication and success.

How to Keep the Skills Section Fresh and Relevant

Your resume is a living document, and your skills section should evolve as you grow. Keep it fresh by:

Regularly updating it with new skills or certifications.
Removing outdated or irrelevant skills.
Tailoring it to match the specific college or program you’re applying to.

"Keep your resume updated. As you gain new experience, skills, and awards, add them!" This way, when it's time to send it out, you're ready to go without a last-minute scramble.

By keeping your skills and awards sections sharp, you’re not just telling colleges what you can do—you’re showing them who you are.

The Finishing Touches: Making It All Come Together

The Importance of a Professional File Name

When it comes to naming your resume file, think of it like naming a pet. You want it to be unique but not weird. A professional file name can make a difference. Avoid titles like "Resume.pdf" or "asdjks.pdf" because they scream "unprofessional." Instead, go for something like "JohnSmith_NYU_Resume.pdf." It’s clear, concise, and lets them know who you are right off the bat.

Why 'References Available Upon Request' is Outdated

Once upon a time, adding "References available upon request" was the norm. But now, it’s as outdated as floppy disks. Employers know they can ask for references if they need them, so save the space for something more impactful. It's like putting "I breathe air" on your resume—obvious and unnecessary.

Keeping Your Resume Updated: A Never-Ending Story

Your resume is a living document. As you gain new experiences, skills, and awards, add them! Don’t wait until you're scrambling to apply for a job or college. Keeping it updated makes life easier when you need to send it out in a hurry. Plus, it’s a great way to remind yourself of all the awesome things you’ve accomplished.

"Staying on top of your resume is like keeping your room clean. It’s a pain, but when you need to find something in a hurry, you’ll be glad you did."

In conclusion, these finishing touches might seem small, but they can make a big difference. Just like highlighting key information at the top of your resume, these details help you stand out in a stack of papers. So, polish up that resume and get ready to shine!

Submitting Your Resume: The Final Frontier

PDF vs. Word: The Great Debate

Ah, the age-old question: PDF or Word? It's like the Coke vs. Pepsi of the document world. Always go with PDF. Why? Because it's like a digital vault that locks your formatting in place. Your beautifully crafted resume won't morph into a Picasso painting when someone opens it on their ancient computer. Plus, PDFs scream professionalism. Word docs, well, they sometimes just scream.

How to Navigate College Application Systems

So, you've got your shiny resume ready to roll. Now, how do you actually get it into the hands of those wise college admissions folks? Most schools use platforms like the Common App, which is like the Swiss Army knife of applications. Some schools will let you upload your resume directly. Others might not even want it. It's a bit like dating—sometimes they swipe right, sometimes they ghost you. Just make sure to follow each school's specific instructions so your resume doesn't disappear into the digital abyss.

The Art of the Follow-Up: What to Do After Submission

You've hit send, and now you're in the waiting zone. Do you sit back and relax? Nope! This is where the art of the follow-up comes in. A polite email a week later can keep you on their radar. Think of it as a gentle nudge, not a shove. "Hey, just checking in to see if you need any more info from me!" Short, sweet, and to the point. And remember, persistence is key, but don't turn into a stalker. Nobody likes a stalker.

When it comes to sending in your resume, think of it as your last big step before landing that dream job. Make sure your resume stands out and shows off your skills. Don’t forget to check out our website for helpful tips and templates that can make your resume shine! Visit us today and take the first step towards your future!

Conclusion

Alright folks, there you have it—the magical world of college resumes, demystified! Crafting the perfect resume is like making a sandwich: you need the right ingredients, a bit of flair, and a whole lot of love. Remember, your resume is just a piece of paper, not a reflection of your entire being. So, don't stress too much if it doesn't scream "future Nobel laureate." Just make sure it tells your story, highlights your strengths, and maybe even makes the admissions folks chuckle a bit. Keep it real, keep it you, and who knows? You might just land that dream college spot. Now go forth and conquer, one bullet point at a time!