Creating a resume as a high school student can feel overwhelming—especially when you don’t have a long list of jobs or internships to include. But here’s the truth: employers and college admissions officers aren’t expecting a stacked resume. What they’re looking for is a clear, well-structured snapshot of your potential, skills, and motivation.
That’s where example resumes for high school students come in handy. Whether you're applying for your first part-time job, a summer internship, or a volunteer opportunity, a strong resume can help you stand out—even with limited experience.
Let’s walk through a realistic high school resume that actually works, and then share expert tips to help you write your own.
Sample Resume: High School Student Applying for Part-Time Retail Job
Jamie Taylor
123 Elm Street, Springfield, IL 62704
(555) 123-4567 | jamie.taylor@email.com
Objective
Motivated high school junior with excellent communication and customer service skills. Seeking a part-time position in retail to gain real-world work experience while contributing to a positive team environment.
Education
Springfield High School – Springfield, IL
Expected Graduation: June 2026
GPA: 3.7/4.0
Relevant Courses: Business Foundations, Intro to Marketing, Speech & Communication
Skills
Strong interpersonal and listening skills
Cash handling and basic math
Familiar with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace
Bilingual: English and Spanish
Experience
Babysitter | Private Families | Springfield, IL
June 2023 – Present
Managed care for up to 3 children at a time, ages 2–8
Prepared meals, organized play activities, and helped with homework
Maintained punctuality, reliability, and trust with families
Volunteer | Springfield Public Library
January 2023 – May 2023
Helped organize book displays and assisted guests with finding materials
Filed and sorted materials, maintained a clean and quiet environment
Earned recognition for positive attitude and reliability
Extracurricular Activities
DECA Club – Member (2023–Present)
Varsity Soccer Team – Forward (2022–Present)
Student Council – Class Representative (2024)
References
Available upon request.
Resume Writing Tips for High School Students
Start With a Strong Objective: Your resume objective should explain what you're looking for and what you bring to the table, even if it's just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
Highlight Transferable Skills: You might not have work experience yet, but skills like time management, teamwork, and problem-solving count. Think about your school projects, clubs, or responsibilities at home.
Include Volunteer Work and Extracurriculars: These show that you're active, responsible, and developing important soft skills.
Customize for Each Job: If you're applying to a retail position, emphasize people skills. For a library assistant job, show you're organized and detail-oriented.
Keep It Clean and Easy to Read: Use bullet points, clear headings, and simple fonts. Your resume should be skimmable and only one page long.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I put on a resume if I’ve never had a job?
Focus on school achievements, volunteer work, extracurriculars, and any responsibilities you've had (like babysitting or helping with a family business). List skills that are relevant to the job you want.
Is it okay to use a resume template?
Yes, but make sure it's clean and professional. Avoid over-designed templates that distract from your content. The focus should always be on clarity and readability.
Should I include GPA on my resume?
Only if it's 3.0 or higher and relevant to what you're applying for (like a scholarship or academic program). Otherwise, it’s optional.
Do I need a cover letter too?
If the job posting asks for one, definitely include it. Even when it’s optional, a short, personalized cover letter can set you apart from other applicants.
Crafting your first resume doesn’t need to be stressful. With the right guidance, a real-life example, and a clear layout, you can create a professional resume that opens doors—even as a student.
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