High School Resume Guide: Examples, Templates, Skills, and Writing Tips

Writing a high school resume can feel confusing because you may not have years of work experience yet.

You might be applying for your first job. You might need a resume for an internship, scholarship, college application, volunteer role, apprenticeship, summer program, or part-time job. You may be wondering what to include when your experience is mostly school, activities, sports, clubs, family responsibilities, projects, or volunteer work.

That is normal.

A strong high school resume does not need to look like a corporate resume. It needs to show that you are responsible, coachable, reliable, organized, and ready to contribute.

The mistake many students make is thinking, “I do not have experience, so I have nothing to put on my resume.”

That is not true.

A high school resume can include:

• Education
• GPA
• Relevant coursework
• School projects
• Volunteer work
• Part-time work
• Babysitting
• Tutoring
• Sports
• Clubs
• Student government
• Awards
• Certifications
• Technical skills
• Customer service skills
• Leadership experience
• Community involvement
• Personal projects

The key is learning how to present those details professionally.

This guide gives you a complete system for building a high school resume, including examples, templates, skills, objectives, formatting tips, and recruiter-backed advice.

If you are specifically trying to decide whether high school should appear on your resume at all, read JobFix.ai’s related guide: Should You Put High School on Your Resume?

This article focuses on how to build the full resume.

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Quick Answer

A high school resume is a one-page document that highlights your education, skills, activities, volunteer work, projects, achievements, and any work experience you have. If you are a high school student or recent graduate, your resume should usually include your school name, expected or completed graduation date, relevant coursework, activities, skills, and experience.

A basic high school resume should include:

• Contact information
• Resume objective or summary
• Education
• Relevant skills
• Work experience, volunteer experience, or projects
• Activities, clubs, sports, or leadership
• Awards, honors, or certifications

Basic high school resume template:

Full Name
City, State | Phone Number | Email Address | LinkedIn or Portfolio

Objective
Motivated high school student seeking a part-time customer service role where I can use strong communication, teamwork, and organization skills to support customers and learn new workplace skills.

Education
Lincoln High School, Dallas, TX
Expected High School Diploma, June 2027
GPA: 3.8/4.0
Relevant Coursework: Business Applications, Public Speaking, Statistics

Skills
Customer service, teamwork, time management, Microsoft Word, Google Docs, cash handling basics

Experience
Volunteer Tutor
Lincoln High School Peer Tutoring Program
September 2026 – Present
- Help students review algebra and English assignments during weekly tutoring sessions.
- Explain concepts clearly and encourage students to complete homework on time.
- Communicate with teachers to understand common areas where students need support.

Activities
Student Council Treasurer
Varsity Soccer Team
Community Food Bank Volunteer

Your resume does not need to be perfect. It needs to be clear, relevant, honest, and easy to read.

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Key Takeaways

• A high school resume should usually be one page.
• You do not need paid work experience to create a strong resume.
• School activities, volunteer work, projects, sports, and coursework can show job-ready skills.
• Use a resume objective if you are applying for your first job or have limited experience.
• Put education near the top if you are a current student or recent graduate.
• Include GPA only if it is strong and helps your application.
• Choose skills that match the job description.
• Use bullet points that show what you did, how you helped, and what skills you used.
• Keep formatting simple so recruiters and ATS systems can read your resume.
• Avoid copying generic templates that do not match your actual experience.
• Tailor your resume for each job instead of sending the same version everywhere.
• Use JobFix.ai to check your resume, improve ATS readability, find missing keywords, and tailor your resume to specific jobs.

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Table of Contents

• What Is a High School Resume?
• Who Needs a High School Resume?
• What Should a High School Resume Include?
• The JobFix.ai F.I.R.S.T. Resume Framework
• Best High School Resume Format
• High School Resume Template
• High School Resume Example
• Resume for High School Student With No Experience
• First Job Resume for High School Student
• Teen Resume Examples
• High School Resume Objective Examples
• Skills for High School Resume
• How to Write the Education Section
• How to Write Experience When You Have No Job Experience
• Activities, Clubs, Sports, and Volunteer Work
• Awards, Honors, and Certifications
• High School Resume Examples by Job Type
• Common High School Resume Mistakes
• ATS Tips for High School Resumes
• Recruiter Advice
• High School Resume Checklist
• FAQs
• Summary
• Call to Action

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What Is a High School Resume?

A high school resume is a short professional document that summarizes your education, skills, activities, achievements, and experience.

It is used when applying for:

• Part-time jobs
• First jobs
• Summer jobs
• Internships
• Volunteer roles
• Scholarships
• College programs
• Apprenticeships
• Career training programs
• Student leadership roles
• Camp counselor jobs
• Retail jobs
• Restaurant jobs
• Tutoring jobs
• Office assistant roles

A high school resume is different from a professional resume because it usually has less paid work experience and more school-based evidence.

That is okay.

Employers hiring students know you may not have years of experience. They are usually looking for signs that you will show up on time, learn quickly, communicate respectfully, follow instructions, and handle responsibility.

Your resume should show those qualities.

What a High School Resume Proves

A good high school resume can prove:

• You are reliable.
• You can communicate.
• You can work with others.
• You can manage responsibilities.
• You can learn new skills.
• You have leadership potential.
• You have relevant interests.
• You have completed useful coursework.
• You have contributed to school or community activities.
• You understand how to present yourself professionally.

What a High School Resume Is Not

A high school resume is not:

• A full transcript
• A list of every class you have taken
• A biography
• A personal essay
• A list of every club you joined once
• A place to exaggerate experience
• A copy of someone else’s resume
• A two-page document full of filler

The best high school resumes are focused, honest, and easy to scan.

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Who Needs a High School Resume?

You may need a high school resume if you are:

• A current high school student
• A recent high school graduate
• A teen applying for a first job
• A student applying for an internship
• A student applying for a scholarship
• A student applying for a volunteer role
• A student applying for a summer program
• A student applying for an apprenticeship
• A student applying for a part-time job
• A student applying for college-related opportunities
• A recent graduate with limited work experience
• A job seeker whose highest education is high school

Common Situations

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What Should a High School Resume Include?

A strong high school resume usually includes these sections:

1. Contact information
2. Resume objective
3. Education
4. Skills
5. Experience
6. Activities
7. Volunteer work
8. Projects
9. Awards and honors
10. Certifications

You do not need every section. Choose the sections that make your resume stronger.

Recommended Section Order

For most high school students:

1. Contact Information
2. Objective
3. Education
4. Skills
5. Experience or Volunteer Experience
6. Activities or Leadership
7. Awards and Certifications

For students with paid work experience:

1. Contact Information
2. Objective or Summary
3. Experience
4. Education
5. Skills
6. Activities
7. Certifications

For scholarship or academic resumes:

1. Contact Information
2. Education
3. Objective or Profile
4. Awards and Honors
5. Activities and Leadership
6. Volunteer Work
7. Projects
8. Skills

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The JobFix.ai F.I.R.S.T. Resume Framework

Use the F.I.R.S.T. Framework to build a high school resume that feels professional even if you have limited experience.

F = Focus on the Target

Do not write one generic resume for every job.

A retail resume should highlight customer service, communication, teamwork, and reliability.

A restaurant resume should highlight energy, time management, food safety, and teamwork.

An internship resume should highlight coursework, projects, academic interests, and technical skills.

Before writing, ask:

• What job am I applying for?
• What skills does the employer want?
• What experience do I have that proves those skills?
• What school activities or projects show the same qualities?

I = Include Transferable Experience

You may not have formal job experience, but you probably have transferable experience.

Transferable experience can include:

• Babysitting
• Pet sitting
• Lawn care
• Tutoring
• Helping a family business
• Volunteering
• Sports
• Clubs
• School projects
• Fundraisers
• Student government
• Community events
• Church or religious organization service
• Personal projects
• Online courses
• Certifications

The resume skill is learning how to translate those experiences into employer language.

R = Rank Your Strongest Proof First

Put your strongest sections higher.

If you have a part-time job, experience may go near the top.

If you have no job experience, education and skills may go near the top.

If you have a strong project, include it.

If you have a strong certification, make it easy to find.

S = Show Skills Through Actions

Do not only list soft skills. Prove them.

Weak:

Skills
Hardworking, responsible, good communicator

Stronger:

Volunteer Tutor
- Helped 6 students review weekly assignments in algebra and English.
- Explained difficult concepts using examples and practice questions.
- Communicated progress and challenges to the program coordinator.

The stronger version shows communication, patience, responsibility, and teaching ability.

T = Tailor Before Applying

Before submitting, compare your resume to the job description.

Look for keywords such as:

• Customer service
• Cash handling
• Communication
• Teamwork
• Time management
• Food safety
• Microsoft Office
• Data entry
• Scheduling
• Cleaning
• Stocking
• Organization
• Leadership
• Problem-solving

Then adjust your resume honestly to match the role.

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Best High School Resume Format

The best high school resume format is simple, clean, and one page.

Recommended Layout

Use:

• One page
• Clear headings
• Simple font
• Consistent spacing
• Bullet points
• Reverse chronological order when listing experience
• Standard section titles
• No graphics that hide important text
• No large photo
• No complicated design

Best Section Headings

Use standard headings like:

• Education
• Experience
• Volunteer Experience
• Skills
• Activities
• Leadership
• Projects
• Certifications
• Awards

Avoid unclear headings like:

• My Journey
• Things I Do
• School Life
• About Me
• Cool Stuff
• What I’m Good At

A recruiter or ATS system should immediately understand your resume.

Best File Name

Use a professional file name:

Jordan-Smith-Resume.pdf

Avoid:

resume-final-final-new-actuallyfinal.pdf

or:

my_resume_lol.pdf

Best Resume Length

Most high school resumes should be one page.

If you cannot fill one page, do not add filler. Use better sections:

• Projects
• Volunteer work
• Activities
• Relevant coursework
• Certifications
• Skills
• Awards
• Leadership
• Personal projects

If your resume goes over one page, cut old or weak details first.

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High School Resume Template

Use this template as a starting point.

Full Name
City, State | Phone Number | Professional Email | LinkedIn or Portfolio

Objective
Motivated high school student seeking a [job type] role where I can use [skill 1], [skill 2], and [skill 3] to support [company/team/customer goal].

Education
School Name, City, State
Expected High School Diploma, Month Year
GPA: X.X/4.0
Relevant Coursework: Course, Course, Course

Skills
Skill, Skill, Skill, Skill, Skill, Skill

Experience
Role or Activity Title
Organization Name
Month Year – Present
- Describe what you did using a strong action verb.
- Show a skill, responsibility, or result.
- Connect the experience to the job you want.

Volunteer Experience
Volunteer Role
Organization Name
Month Year – Month Year
- Describe your contribution.
- Mention teamwork, communication, service, or responsibility.
- Include numbers if possible.

Activities
Activity or Club Name — Role or responsibility
Activity or Club Name — Role or responsibility

Awards and Certifications
Award or Certification, Year
Award or Certification, Year

How to Customize the Template

For retail jobs, emphasize:

• Customer service
• Communication
• Teamwork
• Time management
• Cash handling basics
• Reliability

For restaurant jobs, emphasize:

• Food safety
• Fast-paced teamwork
• Cleaning
• Time management
• Customer service
• Attention to detail

For office jobs, emphasize:

• Microsoft Word
• Excel
• Google Docs
• Data entry
• Organization
• Email communication
• Scheduling

For internships, emphasize:

• Coursework
• Projects
• Academic interests
• Research
• Technical skills
• Leadership

For apprenticeships, emphasize:

• Math
• Safety training
• Technical coursework
• Hands-on projects
• Reliability
• Physical stamina

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High School Resume Example

Here is a complete high school resume example for a student applying for a part-time customer service job.

Maya Thompson
Austin, TX | 555-0148 | maya.thompson@email.com

Objective
Responsible high school student seeking a part-time customer service role where I can use strong communication, teamwork, and organization skills to help customers and support daily store operations.

Education
Austin High School, Austin, TX
Expected High School Diploma, June 2027
GPA: 3.7/4.0
Relevant Coursework: Business Applications, Public Speaking, Personal Finance

Skills
Customer service, teamwork, time management, Google Docs, Microsoft Word, basic cash handling, organization, problem-solving

Volunteer Experience
Volunteer Assistant
Austin Community Food Pantry
September 2026 – Present
- Greet visitors, organize donated items, and help prepare food distribution tables.
- Work with a team of volunteers to serve 80+ families during weekend shifts.
- Maintain a clean and organized supply area during busy service hours.

Activities
Student Council Representative
- Help plan school events, communicate student feedback, and coordinate volunteer sign-ups.

Varsity Volleyball Team
- Attend regular practices and games while balancing academic responsibilities.

Awards
Honor Roll, 2025–2026

Why This Resume Works

This resume works because it does not rely on fake experience. It uses real student experience and connects it to workplace skills.

The resume shows:

• Communication
• Teamwork
• Responsibility
• Customer-facing potential
• Organization
• Consistency
• Community involvement

Those are valuable for many entry-level roles.

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Resume for High School Student With No Experience

If you have no paid work experience, your resume can still be strong.

The key is to use other sections well.

You can include:

• Volunteer work
• School projects
• Clubs
• Sports
• Leadership
• Coursework
• Awards
• Certifications
• Babysitting
• Family responsibilities
• Personal projects
• Community involvement

No-Experience Resume Template

Full Name
City, State | Phone Number | Email Address

Objective
Motivated high school student seeking a first job where I can use communication, teamwork, and organization skills while learning new responsibilities in a professional environment.

Education
School Name, City, State
Expected High School Diploma, Month Year
Relevant Coursework: Course, Course, Course

Skills
Communication, teamwork, time management, organization, Microsoft Word, Google Docs, problem-solving

Projects
Project Name
School or Personal Project
Month Year
- Explain what you created, organized, researched, or completed.
- Mention tools, teamwork, presentation, or problem-solving.
- Connect the project to skills needed for the job.

Volunteer Experience
Volunteer Role
Organization Name
Month Year – Month Year
- Describe how you helped.
- Include numbers or responsibilities if possible.

Activities
Club, Sport, or Activity — Role
Club, Sport, or Activity — Role

No-Experience Resume Example

Ethan Williams
Columbus, OH | 555-0193 | ethan.williams@email.com

Objective
Motivated high school student seeking a first part-time job where I can use teamwork, communication, and time management skills while learning customer service and workplace responsibilities.

Education
Northview High School, Columbus, OH
Expected High School Diploma, May 2027
Relevant Coursework: Business Technology, Public Speaking, Algebra II

Skills
Communication, teamwork, organization, time management, Google Docs, Microsoft Word, attention to detail

School Project
Marketing Poster Project
Business Technology Class
March 2026
- Created a promotional poster for a mock school fundraiser using Canva.
- Presented design choices to classmates and explained the target audience.
- Used feedback to revise the final version before submission.

Volunteer Experience
Community Cleanup Volunteer
Columbus Parks Department
April 2026
- Helped clean local park areas with a team of student volunteers.
- Sorted recyclable materials and followed safety instructions during the event.
- Completed a four-hour volunteer shift on schedule.

Activities
Basketball Team
Technology Club

Why This Works

This resume shows effort, communication, teamwork, and responsibility even without paid experience.

For a first job, that is enough to start.

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First Job Resume for High School Student

A first job resume should focus on employability.

Employers want to know:

• Will you show up on time?
• Can you follow directions?
• Can you communicate with customers or coworkers?
• Can you handle responsibility?
• Are you willing to learn?
• Do you have a positive attitude?
• Can you manage school and work?

First Job Resume Example

Sofia Martinez
Phoenix, AZ | 555-0126 | sofia.martinez@email.com

Objective
Dependable high school student seeking a part-time retail associate position where I can use communication, organization, and teamwork skills to support customers and store operations.

Education
Desert Ridge High School, Phoenix, AZ
Expected High School Diploma, May 2027
GPA: 3.6/4.0
Relevant Coursework: Business Applications, Personal Finance, Public Speaking

Skills
Customer service, communication, teamwork, organization, time management, basic math, Google Docs, Microsoft Word

Volunteer Experience
School Event Volunteer
Desert Ridge High School
August 2026 – Present
- Help set up tables, organize supplies, and welcome guests during school events.
- Answer basic questions from students and parents in a polite and helpful manner.
- Work with other volunteers to clean up event areas after programs end.

Activities
Student Store Volunteer
- Help organize school merchandise and assist students during lunch-period sales.

Track and Field Team
- Attend practices and meets while maintaining academic responsibilities.

Awards
Honor Roll, 2026

First Job Resume Writing Tips

Use words that show dependability:

• Reliable
• Dependable
• Organized
• Punctual
• Helpful
• Respectful
• Motivated
• Responsible
• Coachable

But do not only list them. Use examples that prove them.

Weak:

I am responsible and hardworking.

Stronger:

- Help set up tables, organize supplies, and welcome guests during school events.

The stronger version shows responsibility instead of just claiming it.

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Teen Resume Examples

Teen resumes often overlap with high school resumes, but not all teen resumes are school-focused. Some teens have side jobs, family responsibilities, freelance projects, or volunteer experience.

Teen Resume Example for Babysitting

Ava Johnson
Charlotte, NC | 555-0184 | ava.johnson@email.com

Objective
Responsible high school student seeking a part-time childcare or camp assistant role where I can use patience, communication, and organization skills to support children and families.

Education
Myers Park High School, Charlotte, NC
Expected High School Diploma, June 2027
Relevant Coursework: Child Development, Health Education, Public Speaking

Experience
Babysitter
Local Families
June 2025 – Present
- Provide after-school care for two children ages 5 and 8.
- Prepare snacks, organize activities, and help with homework.
- Communicate schedule updates and concerns to parents.

Skills
Childcare support, communication, patience, organization, conflict resolution, basic meal preparation

Certifications
CPR and First Aid Certification, 2026

Teen Resume Example for Lawn Care

Noah Brown
Tampa, FL | 555-0162 | noah.brown@email.com

Objective
Reliable high school student seeking a part-time maintenance or landscaping role where I can use strong work ethic, time management, and outdoor labor experience.

Education
Tampa Central High School, Tampa, FL
Expected High School Diploma, May 2027

Experience
Lawn Care Helper
Neighborhood Clients
March 2025 – Present
- Mow lawns, rake leaves, water plants, and clean outdoor areas for neighborhood clients.
- Maintain a weekly schedule and communicate service times with customers.
- Use basic lawn equipment safely and follow customer instructions.

Skills
Time management, customer communication, outdoor maintenance, attention to detail, reliability, physical stamina

Teen Resume Example for Tutoring

Liam Chen
San Jose, CA | 555-0179 | liam.chen@email.com

Objective
High-achieving student seeking a tutoring or academic support role where I can use strong math skills, patience, and communication to help younger students improve their confidence.

Education
San Jose High School, San Jose, CA
Expected High School Diploma, June 2027
GPA: 3.9/4.0
Relevant Coursework: AP Calculus, AP English, Computer Science

Experience
Peer Tutor
San Jose High School
September 2026 – Present
- Tutor students in algebra and geometry during weekly after-school sessions.
- Break down difficult problems into clear steps and practice examples.
- Encourage students to complete assignments and prepare for quizzes.

Skills
Tutoring, math support, communication, patience, problem-solving, Google Docs, presentation skills

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High School Resume Objective Examples

A resume objective is a short statement at the top of your resume that explains what you are looking for and what you offer.

High school students often benefit from a resume objective because they may not have enough experience for a full professional summary.

Good Objective Formula

Use this formula:

[Positive trait] high school student seeking a [job type] role where I can use [skill 1], [skill 2], and [skill 3] to support [employer goal].

Retail Objective Example

Dependable high school student seeking a part-time retail associate role where I can use communication, teamwork, and organization skills to support customers and store operations.

Restaurant Objective Example

Motivated high school student seeking a restaurant team member role where I can use strong teamwork, time management, and customer service skills in a fast-paced environment.

Office Assistant Objective Example

Organized high school student seeking an office assistant role where I can use computer skills, attention to detail, and clear communication to support daily administrative tasks.

Internship Objective Example

Curious and detail-oriented high school student seeking a marketing internship where I can apply coursework in digital media, writing, and business communication while learning from an experienced team.

Camp Counselor Objective Example

Responsible high school student seeking a camp counselor role where I can use leadership, patience, and communication skills to support children in a safe and positive environment.

Apprenticeship Objective Example

Hardworking high school graduate seeking an electrician apprenticeship where I can apply technical coursework, math skills, and safety training while learning from experienced professionals.

Scholarship Resume Objective Example

High-achieving high school student with leadership, volunteer, and academic experience seeking scholarship consideration to support continued education in business and community leadership.

Avoid Weak Objectives

Weak:

I want a job where I can make money and gain experience.

Better:

Reliable high school student seeking a part-time customer service role where I can use communication, organization, and teamwork skills while learning professional workplace responsibilities.

The better version focuses on the employer, not only the student.

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Skills for High School Resume

Your skills section should match the job you want.

Do not list random skills just because they sound good.

Best Soft Skills for High School Resumes

• Communication
• Teamwork
• Time management
• Organization
• Responsibility
• Reliability
• Problem-solving
• Adaptability
• Attention to detail
• Leadership
• Patience
• Work ethic
• Listening
• Conflict resolution
• Customer service
• Creativity
• Collaboration
• Punctuality

Best Technical Skills for High School Resumes

• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Excel
• Google Docs
• Google Sheets
• Google Slides
• Canva
• Email communication
• Data entry
• Typing
• Basic cash handling
• POS systems
• Social media basics
• Basic coding
• Python
• HTML/CSS
• Video editing
• Photo editing
• Scheduling tools
• Research
• Presentation software

Skills by Job Type

How Many Skills Should You List?

Most high school resumes should list 6 to 12 skills.

Example:

Skills
Customer service, teamwork, time management, organization, Google Docs, Microsoft Word, basic math, communication

Do not list 30 skills. It looks unfocused.

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How to Write the Education Section

For high school students, education is usually one of the most important sections.

Current Student Format

Education
School Name, City, State
Expected High School Diploma, Month Year
GPA: X.X/4.0
Relevant Coursework: Course, Course, Course

Example

Education
Lincoln High School, Dallas, TX
Expected High School Diploma, June 2027
GPA: 3.8/4.0
Relevant Coursework: Business Applications, Public Speaking, Statistics

Recent Graduate Format

Education
School Name, City, State
High School Diploma, Month Year
Relevant Coursework: Course, Course, Course

Example

Education
Central High School, Phoenix, AZ
High School Diploma, May 2026
Relevant Coursework: Computer Applications, Business Communication, Accounting I

GED Format

Education
GED Certificate — High School Equivalency, 2026

Experienced Worker Format

Education
High School Diploma
Lincoln High School

If you need more detail on education formatting, read JobFix.ai’s guide on how to list high school education on a resume.

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How to Write Experience When You Have No Job Experience

Experience does not only mean paid employment.

For a high school resume, experience can include:

• Volunteer work
• School projects
• Clubs
• Sports leadership
• Tutoring
• Babysitting
• Pet sitting
• Yard work
• Helping at family business
• Religious or community service
• Fundraising
• Event support
• Personal projects
• Online courses with projects

The JobFix.ai 3-Part Bullet Formula

Use this formula for bullet points:

Action + Task + Skill or Result

Example:

- Organized donated food items and prepared distribution tables for 80+ families during weekend pantry shifts.

Action: Organized Task: Donated food items and distribution tables Result: Supported 80+ families

Weak vs. Strong Bullets

Weak:

- Helped at food pantry.

Strong:

- Organized donated items, restocked shelves, and helped prepare food distribution tables for weekend visitors.

Weak:

- Was in student council.

Strong:

- Helped coordinate school events, collect student feedback, and organize volunteer sign-ups for campus activities.

Weak:

- Played soccer.

Strong:

- Balanced 10+ hours of weekly practices and games while maintaining academic responsibilities.

Experience Example Without Paid Work

Volunteer Assistant
Community Food Pantry
September 2026 – Present
- Greet visitors and help organize donated food items during weekend service hours.
- Work with a team of volunteers to prepare distribution tables for 80+ families.
- Maintain a clean supply area and follow instructions from pantry coordinators.

This is valid experience.

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Activities, Clubs, Sports, and Volunteer Work

Activities can make a high school resume stronger when they show relevant qualities.

Good Activities to Include

• Student Council
• National Honor Society
• Debate Team
• Robotics Club
• Yearbook Committee
• School Newspaper
• Theatre
• Band
• Choir
• Sports teams
• Peer tutoring
• Volunteer clubs
• DECA
• FBLA
• HOSA
• SkillsUSA
• FIRST Robotics
• Environmental Club
• Community service groups

How to Format Activities

Basic format:

Activities
Student Council Treasurer
Varsity Soccer Team
Peer Tutor

Stronger format:

Activities
Student Council Treasurer
- Help manage event budgets, track expenses, and coordinate volunteer sign-ups.

Varsity Soccer Team
- Attend regular practices and games while balancing academic responsibilities.

Use the stronger format if the activity is important to the job.

Activities by Skill

Do Not List Every Activity

Choose the most relevant ones.

A resume with three strong activities is better than a resume with ten random activities.

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Awards, Honors, and Certifications

Awards and certifications can help your resume stand out.

Awards and Honors to Include

• Honor Roll
• National Honor Society
• Principal’s List
• AP Scholar
• Class officer
• Competition awards
• Scholarship awards
• Athletic awards
• Community service awards
• Academic department awards
• Perfect attendance, if recent and relevant
• Valedictorian or salutatorian
• SkillsUSA, DECA, FBLA, or HOSA awards

Certification Examples

• CPR and First Aid
• ServSafe Food Handler
• OSHA-10
• Forklift Operator Certification
• Lifeguard Certification
• Microsoft Office Specialist
• Google Workspace training
• Customer service certification
• CNA training
• Babysitting certification
• Typing certification
• Basic coding certificate

Format

Awards and Certifications
Honor Roll, 2025–2026
CPR and First Aid Certification, 2026
ServSafe Food Handler, 2026

Tip

Certifications can be more valuable than generic activities because they show job-specific readiness.

For example, a food handler certificate can strengthen a restaurant resume. CPR can strengthen a camp counselor, babysitting, or lifeguard resume. OSHA-10 can strengthen an apprenticeship or warehouse resume.

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High School Resume Examples by Job Type

Retail Associate Resume Example

Jordan Lee
Orlando, FL | 555-0188 | jordan.lee@email.com

Objective
Dependable high school student seeking a part-time retail associate role where I can use communication, teamwork, and organization skills to support customers and store operations.

Education
Lakeview High School, Orlando, FL
Expected High School Diploma, May 2027
Relevant Coursework: Business Applications, Personal Finance, Public Speaking

Skills
Customer service, teamwork, organization, time management, basic math, Google Docs, Microsoft Word

Experience
School Store Volunteer
Lakeview High School
September 2026 – Present
- Help organize merchandise, restock items, and assist students during lunch-period sales.
- Answer basic product questions and keep the sales area clean and organized.
- Work with classmates to track popular items and prepare displays.

Activities
Student Council Member
Varsity Basketball Team

Restaurant Team Member Resume Example

Amelia Garcia
San Antonio, TX | 555-0135 | amelia.garcia@email.com

Objective
Motivated high school student seeking a restaurant team member role where I can use teamwork, time management, and customer service skills in a fast-paced environment.

Education
Southside High School, San Antonio, TX
Expected High School Diploma, June 2027
Relevant Coursework: Culinary Arts, Nutrition, Business Math

Skills
Customer service, teamwork, food safety basics, cleaning, time management, communication

Volunteer Experience
Community Dinner Volunteer
Southside Community Center
October 2026 – Present
- Help set up tables, serve meals, and clean dining areas during monthly community dinners.
- Follow food safety instructions and support volunteers during busy service periods.
- Greet guests respectfully and assist with basic questions.

Certifications
Food Handler Certificate, 2026

Office Assistant Resume Example

Daniel Kim
Seattle, WA | 555-0142 | daniel.kim@email.com

Objective
Organized high school student seeking a part-time office assistant role where I can use computer skills, attention to detail, and communication to support administrative tasks.

Education
Roosevelt High School, Seattle, WA
Expected High School Diploma, June 2027
GPA: 3.9/4.0
Relevant Coursework: Computer Applications, Business Communication, Accounting I

Skills
Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Google Sheets, data entry, email communication, organization, attention to detail

Experience
Front Office Student Assistant
Roosevelt High School
September 2026 – Present
- Help organize forms, sort mail, and assist staff with basic office tasks.
- Greet students and visitors politely and direct questions to the correct staff member.
- Maintain confidentiality when handling school documents.

Awards
Honor Roll, 2025–2026

Camp Counselor Resume Example

Grace Wilson
Denver, CO | 555-0191 | grace.wilson@email.com

Objective
Responsible high school student seeking a camp counselor role where I can use leadership, patience, and communication skills to support children in a safe and positive environment.

Education
East High School, Denver, CO
Expected High School Diploma, May 2027
Relevant Coursework: Child Development, Health Education, Public Speaking

Skills
Leadership, child supervision, communication, creativity, teamwork, conflict resolution

Experience
Volunteer Reading Buddy
Denver Public Library
June 2026 – Present
- Read with elementary students during weekly literacy sessions.
- Encourage children to participate and ask questions about stories.
- Help maintain a calm and positive learning environment.

Activities
Soccer Team Captain
Peer Mentor Program

Certifications
CPR and First Aid Certification, 2026

Internship Resume Example

Priya Patel
Edison, NJ | 555-0171 | priya.patel@email.com

Objective
Detail-oriented high school student seeking a marketing internship where I can apply coursework in digital media, writing, and business communication while learning from an experienced team.

Education
Edison High School, Edison, NJ
Expected High School Diploma, June 2027
GPA: 3.9/4.0
Relevant Coursework: Digital Media, Business Applications, AP English

Skills
Writing, Canva, Google Slides, research, social media basics, presentation skills, teamwork

Project
Mock Social Media Campaign
Digital Media Class
March 2026
- Created a three-week content plan for a school club awareness campaign.
- Designed sample graphics in Canva and wrote captions for Instagram-style posts.
- Presented campaign goals, audience, and content strategy to classmates.

Activities
School Newspaper Contributor
National Honor Society

Apprenticeship Resume Example

Marcus Johnson
Riverside, CA | 555-0156 | marcus.johnson@email.com

Objective
Hardworking high school graduate seeking an electrician apprenticeship where I can apply technical coursework, math skills, and safety training while learning from experienced professionals.

Education
Riverside Technical High School, Riverside, CA
High School Diploma, Electrical Technology Concentration, June 2026
Relevant Training: Blueprint Reading, Electrical Safety, Basic Wiring, Algebra II

Skills
Shop safety, basic wiring, measuring, teamwork, attention to detail, problem-solving, physical stamina

Projects
Basic Wiring Lab
Electrical Technology Program
February 2026
- Completed supervised wiring exercises using basic electrical tools and safety procedures.
- Read simple diagrams and followed instructor guidance to complete assigned tasks.
- Maintained an organized workspace and followed safety requirements.

Certifications
OSHA-10, 2026

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Common High School Resume Mistakes

Mistake 1: Saying You Have No Experience

You may have no paid work experience, but you likely have school, volunteer, project, activity, or responsibility-based experience.

Use it.

Mistake 2: Using an Unprofessional Email Address

Use a simple email address based on your name.

Good:

maya.thompson@email.com

Avoid:

soccerqueen123@email.com

Mistake 3: Making the Resume Too Long

Most high school resumes should be one page.

Cut weak details before shrinking the font or spacing too much.

Mistake 4: Listing Every Class

Only include relevant coursework.

Weak:

English 9, English 10, English 11, Algebra, Biology, Gym, History, Spanish, Art

Better:

Relevant Coursework: Business Applications, Public Speaking, Statistics

Mistake 5: Listing Too Many Activities

Choose quality over quantity.

Three relevant activities are better than twelve random ones.

Mistake 6: Using Generic Skills

Avoid vague skills like:

• Nice
• Smart
• Cool
• Hard worker
• Good person

Use specific skills:

• Customer service
• Time management
• Google Docs
• Teamwork
• Data entry
• Public speaking
• Cash handling basics

Mistake 7: Writing Weak Bullet Points

Weak:

- Helped with events.

Better:

- Helped set up event tables, organize supplies, and welcome guests during school programs.

Mistake 8: Forgetting to Tailor the Resume

A resume for a restaurant job should not be exactly the same as a resume for an office assistant job.

Change the objective, skills, and examples to match the role.

Mistake 9: Using Complicated Designs

Creative templates can look nice, but they may be hard to read or parse.

Use a clean format first. Design should support clarity, not replace it.

Mistake 10: Not Proofreading

Spelling and grammar mistakes matter.

Before applying, check:

• Name
• Phone number
• Email
• Dates
• School name
• Job title
• Bullet point grammar
• Consistent formatting

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ATS Tips for High School Resumes

Some employers use Applicant Tracking Systems to store and scan resumes.

Even for entry-level jobs, your resume should be easy for software and humans to read.

Use Standard Section Headings

Good:

Education
Experience
Skills
Volunteer Experience
Certifications

Avoid:

My Story
What I’ve Done
Cool Skills
School Stuff

Use Job Description Keywords Naturally

If the job posting mentions:

• Customer service
• Cash handling
• Teamwork
• Stocking
• Cleaning
• Food safety
• Scheduling
• Communication

Use the matching terms only if they honestly apply to you.

Example:

Skills
Customer service, teamwork, stocking, organization, time management

Avoid Important Text in Images

Do not put your resume content inside graphics or screenshots.

ATS software may not read it.

Use Simple Bullet Points

Simple bullets are easier to scan.

Good:

- Greeted visitors and helped organize donated items during weekend pantry shifts.

Avoid symbols or decorative icons.

Submit the Right File Type

Follow the employer’s instructions.

If they ask for PDF, submit PDF.

If they ask for DOCX, submit DOCX.

If they use an online form, paste plain text carefully.

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Recruiter Advice

Recruiters Do Not Expect a Perfect Career History

For high school students, recruiters and hiring managers know you may be applying for your first job.

They are not expecting a long list of professional achievements.

They are looking for:

• Effort
• Clarity
• Reliability
• Professionalism
• Communication
• Willingness to learn
• Signs of responsibility

Your Resume Should Be Easy to Understand in 10 Seconds

A recruiter should quickly see:

• Who you are
• What role you want
• Where you go to school
• When you graduate
• What skills you bring
• What activities or experience show responsibility

Small Details Matter

A clean resume can make you look more prepared than other applicants.

Good formatting, clear wording, and relevant examples can help you stand out.

Honesty Matters

Do not exaggerate.

Do not invent jobs.

Do not claim certifications you do not have.

Do not say you graduated if you have not.

A truthful resume with strong presentation is better than an exaggerated resume that creates risk.

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High School Resume Checklist

Use this checklist before submitting your resume.

Contact Information

• Full name is clear
• Phone number is correct
• Email address is professional
• City and state are included
• LinkedIn or portfolio is included only if useful

Objective

• Objective matches the job
• It mentions useful skills
• It focuses on what you can offer
• It is not too generic

Education

• School name is correct
• Expected or completed graduation date is included if recent
• GPA is included only if strong
• Coursework is relevant
• Education section is not too long

Skills

• Skills match the job description
• Both soft and technical skills are included
• Skills are specific
• The list is not too long

Experience

• Paid, volunteer, school, or project experience is included
• Bullet points start with action verbs
• Bullet points show responsibilities or results
• Experience is honest and specific

Activities

• Activities show leadership, teamwork, responsibility, or communication
• Only relevant activities are included
• Roles are clear

Formatting

• Resume is one page
• Headings are clear
• Spacing is consistent
• Font is readable
• No distracting graphics
• File name is professional

Final Review

• No spelling errors
• No grammar errors
• Dates are consistent
• Resume is tailored to the job
• Resume is easy to scan
• Resume has been checked for ATS readability

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FAQs

What is a high school resume?

A high school resume is a one-page document that highlights a student’s education, skills, activities, volunteer work, projects, awards, and any work experience. It is commonly used for part-time jobs, internships, scholarships, college programs, apprenticeships, and first jobs.

What should a high school resume include?

A high school resume should usually include contact information, a resume objective, education, skills, experience, volunteer work, activities, awards, and certifications. Students with no paid experience can include school projects, clubs, sports, babysitting, tutoring, or community service.

How long should a high school resume be?

A high school resume should usually be one page. Since most students have limited work experience, one page is enough to show education, skills, activities, volunteer work, and achievements. Avoid adding filler just to make the resume look longer.

What should a high school resume look like?

A high school resume should look clean, simple, and easy to read. Use clear headings, bullet points, consistent spacing, and a professional font. Avoid large graphics, photos, or complicated designs that make the resume harder for recruiters or ATS systems to scan.

Do high school students need a resume?

High school students need a resume when applying for jobs, internships, scholarships, volunteer roles, apprenticeships, or special programs. Even without paid work experience, a resume can show responsibility, school involvement, skills, projects, and leadership.

How do I write a resume as a high school student with no experience?

Use school, volunteer, project, activity, and personal responsibility experience. Include relevant coursework, skills, clubs, sports, tutoring, babysitting, community service, and certifications. Focus on transferable skills like teamwork, communication, organization, reliability, and time management.

What is a good objective for a high school resume?

A good objective is short, specific, and job-focused. Example: “Dependable high school student seeking a part-time retail role where I can use communication, teamwork, and organization skills to support customers and store operations.”

Should I put GPA on a high school resume?

Include GPA if it is strong, recent, and useful. A GPA of 3.5 or higher can help for jobs, internships, scholarships, and academic programs. If your GPA is low or not relevant, leave it off and focus on skills, activities, and experience.

What skills should I put on a high school resume?

Good skills for a high school resume include communication, teamwork, time management, organization, customer service, problem-solving, Microsoft Word, Google Docs, basic math, public speaking, data entry, leadership, and attention to detail. Choose skills that match the job.

Can I include volunteer work on a high school resume?

Yes. Volunteer work is valuable on a high school resume, especially if you have limited paid experience. It can show responsibility, teamwork, communication, service mindset, organization, and reliability. Write volunteer experience with bullet points just like a job.

Can I include babysitting on a high school resume?

Yes. Babysitting can be strong experience if it shows responsibility, communication, scheduling, safety awareness, patience, and trust. Include the ages of children, tasks performed, and any certifications such as CPR or First Aid if applicable.

Should I include clubs on a high school resume?

Include clubs if they show relevant skills or leadership. Student council, debate, robotics, yearbook, school newspaper, volunteer clubs, and academic organizations can strengthen a resume. Avoid listing every club if the activities do not support your goal.

Should I include sports on a high school resume?

Yes, if sports show teamwork, discipline, leadership, or time management. Sports can be useful for students with limited experience. If you were captain or balanced athletics with academics, that can be especially helpful.

What is the best high school resume format?

The best format is a one-page reverse-chronological or combination resume with clear sections for contact information, objective, education, skills, experience, activities, and certifications. Keep the design simple and easy to read.

Should high school education go at the top of the resume?

For current students and recent graduates, education usually belongs near the top. If you have paid work experience that is more relevant, experience can go first. The strongest and most relevant section should appear higher.

How do I make a high school resume stand out?

Make your resume stand out by tailoring it to the job, using specific bullet points, adding relevant skills, including projects or volunteer work, and showing leadership or responsibility. A clean, focused resume is stronger than a flashy one.

What should I not put on a high school resume?

Do not include personal photos, full home address, social security number, weak GPA, irrelevant hobbies, false experience, every class you took, or unprofessional email addresses. Avoid long paragraphs and complicated designs.

Can I use a high school resume template?

Yes. A template can help with structure, but you should customize it. Do not copy examples word for word. Replace generic content with your real education, skills, activities, projects, and experience.

Is a high school resume different from a college resume?

Yes. A high school resume usually focuses more on education, activities, volunteer work, coursework, and early experience. A college resume may focus more on internships, major coursework, research, campus leadership, projects, and career-related experience.

How can JobFix.ai help with a high school resume?

JobFix.ai can help you improve your resume, check ATS readability, identify missing keywords, tailor your resume to a job description, generate stronger resume bullets, create cover letters, and prepare for interviews. It can help turn student experience into employer-friendly language.

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Summary

A high school resume does not need years of paid experience to be effective.

It needs to show that you are responsible, prepared, and ready to learn.

The best high school resumes include clear contact information, a focused objective, education, relevant skills, experience, activities, volunteer work, projects, awards, and certifications. If you do not have a job yet, use school projects, clubs, sports, family responsibilities, volunteer work, and coursework to show transferable skills.

Use this rule:

A high school resume should translate student experience into workplace value.

Do not try to sound older than you are. Do not exaggerate. Do not fill the page with random details.

Instead, show real examples of communication, teamwork, reliability, leadership, organization, and effort.

For the related question of whether high school belongs on a resume after you gain more experience, read: Should You Put High School on Your Resume?

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Call to Action

Before you apply, review your high school resume carefully.

Ask yourself:

• Does my resume match the job?
• Is my objective specific?
• Are my skills relevant?
• Did I include experience beyond paid jobs?
• Are my bullet points clear?
• Is my education section accurate?
• Did I include useful activities, awards, or certifications?
• Is the resume one page?
• Would a recruiter understand it quickly?
• Is it ATS-friendly?

JobFix.ai can help you improve your resume, optimize your ATS score, identify missing resume keywords, tailor your resume to specific jobs, create a cover letter, and prepare for interviews.

Use JobFix.ai as a final check before applying so your high school resume is clear, targeted, and ready to help you get the interview.