Why a Resume in High School Is a Valuable Tool
By Anne Stamer, Senior Career Coach College Flight Path
For many high school students, the idea of creating a resume may seem premature—something reserved for college graduates or job seekers in the professional world. However, building a resume while still in high school can be a powerful step toward future success and highlights activities with rich engagement, especially for large public flagship colleges that do not ask for supplemental essays. Here’s why starting early with a resume is such a smart move.
Prepares You for the Future
Learning how to build and maintain a resume introduces students to important professional habits. The process of organizing experiences, setting goals, and tracking progress mirrors the kind of preparation required in college and the workplace. Whether you are applying for a summer job, an internship, or a scholarship, having a resume on hand means you are always ready to present yourself professionally. This is also a terrific habit to build in learning how to articulate your accomplishments via action verbs.
Highlights Your Strengths
Even if you haven’t had a formal job yet, a resume is a great way to showcase your strengths. It allows you to highlight achievements in academics, sports, clubs, volunteer work, and other activities. Many students are surprised by how much they have already accomplished when they see their experiences laid out on paper. This self-awareness is key to growing confidence and recognizing your unique value. BTW, a resume does not have to be one page, click here to read more.
Builds Confidence
There is something empowering about seeing your achievements and contributions in one place. A resume isn’t just a tool for others to learn about you—it’s a way for you to reflect on how far you have come. Reviewing your experiences can help you feel more prepared and articulate when it comes time to write personal statements or speak in interviews. The more you practice telling your story, the more comfortable and confident you become.
Helps with Job and Internship Applications
More employers are recognizing the potential of high school students and are offering internships, part-time positions, and volunteer opportunities tailored to them. Many of these roles request a resume as part of the application process. Having one ready can make the difference between applying on time—or missing out altogether.
Makes College Applications Easier
When it is time to fill out college applications, students often struggle to remember all their extracurricular activities, honors, and leadership roles. A resume acts as a personal archive of these experiences. It streamlines the application process and can even serve as a helpful reference when writing essays or preparing for college interviews….something that we are experts at helping our students leverage.
The Growing Trend
Teen employment rates continue to evolve, reflecting changes in the job market and economic conditions.
In July 2024, 54.5% of young people (ages 16 to 24) were employed
Additionally, teen employment hit a 14-year high in 2023, with about 37% of teens working at some point during the year.
During the summer of 2023, teen labor force participation rose to 42%, compared to 35% during the rest of the year.
These trends suggest that job opportunities for young people have expanded, making resumes even more essential for high school students preparing for employment. It is also an important factor for admissions to see that students hold a job for an extended period, especially ones that build customer service skills, which help demonstrate responsibility, maturity, time management, and interpersonal skills. Students with practical experiences in customer service receive additional oversight, especially when they apply to a business-related field because they require practical skills, an understanding of business dynamics, and a work ethic.
Final Thought
Creating a resume in high school isn’t just a task for students aiming for jobs—it is a foundation for academic, professional, and personal growth. It encourages young people to take ownership of their journeys, recognize their accomplishments, and set goals for the future. As more high schools emphasize professional development, resumes are becoming an essential tool for students looking to stay ahead. Whether you are a freshman just getting started or a senior preparing for life after graduation, it is never too early to start crafting your resume.
College Flight Path is excited to let you know that we have launched our career coaching services to support you.
Our Career Coaching Can Help With:
Resume and Cover Letter Optimization for Applicant Tracking System (ATS)
Building your Network and Confidence
Job Search Strategies, Career Goal Setting, and Professional Development
LinkedIn Optimization & URL Customization
Interview Preparation & Salary Negotiation
Need help upleveling your resume strategies? Fill out our contact form to get started to access to a 15-minute discovery call.
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