How to Write a Great College Application Resume

The Importance of a College Application Resume

Applying to college can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to creating a standout application. Beyond grades and test scores, colleges and universities often require students to submit a resume as part of their application. While resumes are typically associated with job applications, a college application resume serves a different purpose. It allows students to highlight their achievements, experiences, and skills in a concise and organized manner, providing admissions officers with a better understanding of who they are as a candidate.

Creating a great college application resume requires careful thought and planning. Unlike a traditional resume, a college application resume should focus on the student’s academic and extracurricular experiences, rather than their work history. This means that students need to showcase their accomplishments in a way that will impress admissions officers and help them stand out in a sea of applicants.

The Dos and Don’ts of Writing a College Application Resume

To help you craft a standout college application resume, here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

• Start early and take your time: Don’t wait until the last minute to start working on your resume. Give yourself plenty of time to gather all the necessary information and to review and edit your resume.
• Showcase your achievements: In addition to your academic performance, include any relevant accomplishments, such as awards, leadership positions, or special projects.
• Be concise and relevant: Your resume should be no longer than one or two pages. Stick to the most important and relevant information that will help you stand out.
• Include your extracurricular activities: Admissions officers want to see that you are a well-rounded individual. Include any extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, or volunteer work, that have been meaningful to you.
• Use action verbs and be specific: Use strong verbs to describe your experiences and be specific in your descriptions. This will help bring your achievements to life.
• Proofread and edit: Make sure to proofread your resume multiple times and have someone else look it over for errors and typos.

Don’t:

• Include unnecessary personal information: Admissions officers do not need to know details such as your date of birth, social security number, or personal interests.
• Oversell or exaggerate: It’s important to highlight your accomplishments, but avoid embellishing or exaggerating them. Admissions officers can see right through this and it may harm your chances of being accepted.
• Use a generic template: While templates can provide a good starting point, make sure to personalize your resume and avoid using a generic one. This will help you stand out and show your unique experiences and personality.
• Be too wordy: Remember, your resume should be concise and to the point. Avoid using long sentences and stick to important information.
• Forget to update: As you gain new experiences and achievements, make sure to update your resume accordingly. This will ensure that your resume is always current and reflects your most recent accomplishments.

Final Tips and Tricks

Here are some final tips and tricks to help you write a great college application resume:

• Consider the format: While there is no one right format for a college application resume, it’s important to choose a layout that is easy to read and highlights your accomplishments.
• Show your personality: Your resume doesn’t have to be dry and boring. Feel free to let your personality shine through, whether that’s through your writing style or by including a creative element, such as a personal logo.
• Include a personal statement: A short personal statement at the top of your resume can help introduce yourself and showcase your goals and interests.
• Be strategic: Be selective in the experiences you choose to include in your resume. Make sure they are relevant to your academic goals and highlight your strengths.
• Have someone else review it: Get feedback from a teacher, counselor, or mentor. They can provide valuable insights and help you improve your resume.

Conclusion

A well-crafted college application resume can set you apart from other applicants and improve your chances of getting into your dream school. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a resume that will impress admissions officers and showcase your achievements, skills, and personality. Remember, your resume is your opportunity to make a strong first impression, so make sure to put in the time and effort to make it great.