With so many different resume formats to choose from, it can be challenging to know where to begin. But fear not, because in this guide, we will walk you through the process of creating the perfect resume for students. We will provide you with valuable writing tips, samples, and skills that will help you stand out in a crowded job market.
Whether you’re a freshman trying to secure your first internship or a senior preparing to enter the workforce, this article has everything you need to know to write a winning resume. So, let’s dive in and start crafting the perfect resume for your future success!
Understand the purpose of your resume
First things first, understanding the purpose of a student’s resume is crucial. It’s not just about highlighting qualifications, skills, and achievements; it’s also about aligning them with your specific goals and aspirations. A well-crafted resume strategically showcases your potential, transferable skills, growth, and progression, opening doors to academic and professional opportunities.
To make that positive first impression, your student resume should present credentials clearly and organised, highlighting relevant information and demonstrating your potential and future capabilities. By continuously tailoring your resume to specific goals and opportunities, you can greatly increase your chances of academic and career success.
Gather your details: What should you include in your resume?
When it comes to creating a student resume, having a well-structured and informative document that effectively showcases your qualifications and experiences is essential.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to include in your student resume.
Contact information
Start with your full name and include only the most reliable phone number and professional-sounding email address. A LinkedIn profile can bolster your resume if it’s professionally maintained.
Objective or summary statement
Although optional, a concise one to two-sentence objective or summary statement can convey your career or academic goals and what you bring to the table. Tailor this section to match the specific opportunity you’re applying for.
Education
Highlight your current or most recent educational experience at the top of your resume. List your degree in progress, your expected graduation date, and your major or minor. You can also include your GPA if it’s strong, relevant coursework, or academic achievements.
Work experience
Include any part-time jobs, internships, or work-study positions. Detail your responsibilities and accomplishments in each role, highlighting transferable skills and achievements that are relevant to the position you’re applying for.
Relevant coursework or projects
This section should highlight coursework or class projects that are directly related to your job or academic program. To enhance your skills and knowledge, mention specific projects, research, or assignments.
Skills
List both hard (technical) and soft (interpersonal) skills relevant to your job or academic program. Tailor this section to match the requirements of the opportunity.
Extracurricular activities
Highlight your involvement in student organisations, clubs, volunteer work, or community service. Focus on leadership roles and any accomplishments or contributions.
Awards and honours
List any academic awards, scholarships, or other recognitions you’ve received, including the name of the award, the granting organisation, and the date received.
References
Although optional, you can include a line that says “References available upon request.” Prepare a separate reference sheet to provide when requested.
Remember, your student resume should be unique and tailored to your individual experiences and qualifications. It should showcase not only your achievements but also your potential for growth and development. With these tips, you can create a standout resume that sets you apart from other students.
What resume format should you use as a student?
When deciding on what resume format to use as a student, it’s important to consider a variety of factors. The three most common formats are chronological, functional, and combination –, and your experience, the job or opportunity, gaps in work history, skills emphasis, and industry norms all play a role in determining the best format for you.
If you have a strong and consistent work history, or relevant internships to showcase, a chronological resume may be the most effective option. This format presents your work and educational experiences in reverse chronological order, with your most recent experiences listed first. A chronological resume is particularly suited to those pursuing a job directly related to their major or previous work experiences, as it promotes their career progression and work continuity. However, it can also emphasise gaps in work history or lack of experience if you’re just starting out.
For those with limited work experience but who want to highlight their skills and abilities, a functional resume is a good option. This format focuses on your skills and qualifications rather than your work history, and is ideal for redirecting attention to your transferable skills. It is effective when your work experiences are not directly related to the job you’re applying for. One downside of a functional resume is that some employers may prefer a traditional chronological format.
A combination resume, as the name suggests, combines elements of both the chronological and functional formats. This format starts with a skills summary or qualifications section, and then includes a chronological list of work and education experiences. It offers the best of both worlds by showcasing your skills while still providing a work history. However, it requires careful organisation to ensure a cohesive narrative.
To choose the best resume format for yourself, consider your individual circumstances, the job or academic programme you’re applying for, and industry norms. It’s important to tailor your resume format to the specific requirements and preferences of the organisation or employer. Regardless of the format you choose, remember to customise your resume for each opportunity to maximise your chances of success.
Ultimately, the goal is to create a resume format that effectively highlights your strengths, experiences, and qualifications in a way that aligns with the goals of your job or academic applications.
Tips for student resume
- Use action verbs such as “managed,” “developed,” and “improved” to highlight your accomplishments and skills.
- Include quantifiable metrics such as percentages or numbers to showcase the impact of your work.
- Incorporate keywords and phrases from the job posting throughout your resume, especially in the skills section.
- Focus on relevant achievements that directly relate to the responsibilities listed in the job posting.
- Address specific requirements mentioned in the job posting, such as software, certifications, or qualifications.
Overall, the resume can be one of the most powerful tools you have as a student. It’s your opportunity to get noticed and stand out from the pile of applicants. Take some time to go over the resume tips laid out in this article, and make sure that yours highlights your best skills and experience for the job you’re applying for. With this done, you will be ready to go out into the job market with confidence, looking forward to making your mark!
Chronological student resume template
[Your Full Name]
[Your Phone Number] | [Your Professional Email Address] | [LinkedIn Profile URL]
Objective:
[Insert a concise objective or summary statement tailored to the specific opportunity.]
Education:
[Your Degree] in [Your Major]
[University Name]
Expected Graduation Date: [Month, Year]
Current Cumulative GPA: [Your GPA, if strong]
Relevant Coursework:
– [Course 1]: [Description of course and relevance to field]
– [Course 2]: [Description of course and relevance to field]
– [Course 3]: [Description of course and relevance to field]
Work Experience:
[Job Title]
[Company Name] – [Location]
[Start Date] – [End Date]
– [Describe your responsibilities and achievements in this role. Focus on transferable skills.
[Job Title]
[Company Name] – [Location]
[Start Date] – [End Date]
– [Describe your responsibilities and achievements in this role. Focus on transferable skills.]
Skills:
Technical Skills:
– [List your technical skills, such as software proficiency, programming languages, etc.]
– [Another technical skill]
Soft Skills:
– [List your soft skills, such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, etc.]
– [Another soft skill]
Extracurricular Activities:
– [Leadership position or involvement in a student organisation, club, or volunteer work]
– [Another extracurricular activity]
Awards and Honors:
– [Name of Scholarship/Award], [Granting Organisation], [Date Received]
– [Name of Honor Society], [Date Inducted]
References:
References available upon request.
Chronological student resume example
John Lin
9123 4567 | john.lin@email.com | www.linkedin.com/in/johnlin/
Objective:
As a highly motivated and detail-oriented undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, I am seeking a challenging opportunity to apply my academic training, practical experience, and exceptional interpersonal skills to a dynamic team.
—
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – National University of Singapore
Expected Graduation Date: May 2023 Current Cumulative GPA: 3.85
Relevant Coursework:
- Marketing Management: An in-depth study of marketing strategy, consumer behaviour, advertising, and promotion. Developed skills in market research, branding, and digital marketing.
- Managerial Accounting: Focus on financial and managerial accounting concepts, costing systems, budget planning, and decision analysis. Developed skills in financial statement analysis, cost behaviour, and variance analysis.
- Business Ethics and Social Responsibility: An examination of the legal and ethical responsibilities of businesses, sustainability, corporate governance, and social impact. Developed skills in developing and evaluating business strategies relating to key ethical issues.
Work Experience:
Sales Associate I ABC Company June 2020 – Present
- Assisted customers with product selection, inquiries, and transactions in a fast-paced retail environment.
- Developed and maintained a broad knowledge base of products, promotions, and services to provide accurate and timely information to customers.
- Utilised strategic upselling techniques to increase revenue and enhance customer satisfaction, resulting in a 15% increase in monthly sales.
- Partnered with team members to execute store objectives, maintain a clean and organised sales floor, and complete daily tasks, contributing to seamless operations.
Marketing Intern I XYZ Pte. Ltd August 2019 – December 2019
- Collaborated with a team of marketing professionals to execute various projects, including social media campaigns, market research, and content development.
- Assisted in creating and scheduling social media content, resulting in a 25% increase in engagement rates within the first month of my internship.
- Conducted market research and analysed customer feedback to inform marketing strategies and enhance customer experience.
- Designed and developed visually appealing graphics and videos to boost online engagement, contributing to a 10% increase in website traffic.
Relevant Coursework or Projects:
- Market Research Project: Conducted a market research project on the perfume industry, including a questionnaire survey of 500 respondents. Analysed data using SPSS and created a report of findings and recommendations.
- Digital Marketing Project: Developed a digital marketing plan for a new startup company. Conducted a SWOT analysis, identified target audience segments, created social media content, and developed a budget plan.
- Business Plan Competition: Participated in the prestigious Berkeley Business Plan Competition. Worked with a team to develop a business idea, conduct market research, create a financial plan, and present to a panel of judges. Placed in the top 10 teams.
Skills:
Technical Skills:
Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator)
Social Media Management (Hootsuite, Buffer)
Data Analysis with SPSS, Excel
Soft Skills:
Strong Communication (verbal and written)
Team Collaboration (cross-functional teams, diverse workgroups)
Problem Solving (analytical and strategic thinking)
Time Management (multitasking, prioritising, meeting deadlines)
Extracurricular Activities:
Vice President, Business Club: Collaborated with other student leaders to plan and execute events, initiatives, and programs for the benefit of the student community. Led the development of a mentorship program connecting students with alumni.
Volunteer, Food from the Heart: Organised and participated in community service projects, such as food packing and delivery, to give back and contribute to local causes.
Participant, National Advertising Competition: Engaged in a national advertising competition that involved creating a comprehensive advertising campaign for a client, including market research, creative development, and media planning.
Awards and Honors:
NUS Achievement Scholarship, National University of Singapore, May 2020: Awarded to students with an exceptional academic record and demonstrated financial need.
President’s Honour Roll, April 2020: Recognizes business students in the top 10% of their class and demonstrates leadership abilities.
References:
References are available upon request.
Functional student resume template
[Your Full Name]
[Your Phone Number] | [Your Professional Email Address] | [LinkedIn Profile URL]
Objective:
[Insert a concise objective or summary statement tailored to the specific opportunity.]
Skills:
Technical Skills:
– [List your technical skills, such as software proficiency, programming languages, etc.]
– [Another technical skill]
Soft Skills:
– [List your soft skills, such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, etc.]
– [Another soft skill]
Education:
[Your Degree] in [Your Major]
[University Name]
Expected Graduation Date: [Month, Year]
Current GPA: [Your GPA, if strong]
Relevant Coursework:
– [Course 1]
– [Course 2]
– [Course 3]
Relevant Projects:
– [Project Title]: [Brief description and relevance]
– [Project Title]: [Brief description and relevance]
– [Project Title]: [Brief description and relevance]
Work Experience:
[Job Title]
[Company Name] – [Location]
[Start Date] – [End Date]
– [Describe your responsibilities and achievements in this role. Focus on transferable skills.]
[Job Title]
[Company Name] – [Location]
[Start Date] – [End Date]
– [Describe your responsibilities and achievements in this role. Focus on transferable skills.]
Extracurricular Activities:
– [Leadership position or involvement in a student organisation, club, or volunteer work]
– [Another extracurricular activity]
Awards and Honors:
– [Name of Scholarship/Award], [Granting Organisation], [Date Received]
– [Name of Honor Society], [Date Inducted]
References:
References available upon request.
Functional student resume example
Jane Teo
9123 4567 | jane.teo@email.com | www.linkedin.com/in/janeteo/
Objective:
Enthusiastic and results-driven marketing professional with a strong foundation in social media and content creation. Seeking opportunities to leverage my skills, knowledge, and passion to make a meaningful impact. Committed to continuous learning and innovation.
Skills:
Technical Skills:
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator)
- Data Analysis with Google Analytics and Tableau
- Experience with social media management tools such as Hootsuite
Soft Skills:
- Strong Communication: Experienced in communicating with clients, team members, and stakeholders
- Critical Thinking: Demonstrated ability to analyse data and make strategic decisions
- Problem Solving: Skilled in identifying and solving problems in a collaborative environment
- Time Management: Proficient in managing multiple projects and meeting deadlines
- Team Collaboration: Adept at working with diverse teams to achieve common goals
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Marketing – Singapore Management University
Expected Graduation Date: May 2022 Current GPA: 3.9
Relevant Coursework:
- Consumer Behaviour
- Marketing Research
- Brand Management
- Digital Marketing
Relevant Projects:
- Social Media Campaign for Local Non-Profit: Developed and executed a social media campaign, resulting in a 20% increase in donations and volunteer sign-ups.
- Marketing Research Project: Conducted market research on a local eco-friendly fashion startup, resulting in recommendations for branding and target audience.
- Brand Management Case Study: Analysed the rebranding efforts of a major clothing retailer, recommending changes to improve customer retention.
Work Experience:
Social Media Intern I ABC Company June 2021 – September 2021
- Created social media content and managed accounts for multiple clients, resulting in increased engagement and followers.
- Conducted competitor research and made recommendations for improved social media strategies.
- Collaborated with designers and copywriters to create visually engaging content.
Sales Associate I XYZ Retail October 2019 – Present
- Provided exceptional customer service, resulting in a 95% customer satisfaction rating.
- Achieved and surpassed monthly sales goals by utilising effective communication and sales techniques.
- Cross-trained in several departments, including visual merchandising and inventory management.
Extracurricular Activities:
- Vice President, SMU Marketing Association: Organised events and connected members with industry professionals.
- Volunteer, Food from the Heart: Assisted in packaging and distributing food to those in need.
- Participant, National Student Advertising Competition: Collaborated with a team to develop a comprehensive advertising campaign for a real client.
Awards and Honors:
SMU Marketing Association Scholarship, SMU, 2021
National Honors Society in Marketing, Inducted May 2021
References:
Available upon request.
