resume writing for recent graduates

Build my resume

• Build a better resume in minutes
• Resume examples
• 2,000+ examples that work in 2024
• Resume templates
• 184 free templates for all levels
• Cover letters
• Cover letter generator
• It's like magic, we promise
• Cover letter examples
• Free downloads in Word & Docs

5 Recent College Graduate Resume Examples for 2024

• Recent College Grad
• Recent College Grad 2
• Recent College Grad 3
• Recent College Grad 4
• Recent College Grad 5
• Recent College Grad Resume Writing 101

As a recent college graduate, the world is your oyster. With your college days in the rearview mirror, it’s time to put your skills to the test and jumpstart your career.

If the prospect of job hunting with limited work experience seems daunting, you’re not alone. College grads around the globe face the same dilemma— what to put on your resume and how to write a cover letter if you’re still new to the professional world?

Don’t fret—you’ve got boundless ambition, and we’ve got the secret resume tips plus a resume builder to turn that into your dream role! Check out our five recent college graduate resume templates and expert guidance.

Recent College Graduate Resume

or download as PDF

Recent College Graduate 2 Resume

Recent College Graduate 3 Resume

Recent College Graduate 4 Resume

Recent College Graduate 5 Resume

Related resume examples

• Grad School
• Research Assistant
• College Student
• Entry-Level
• College Graduate

What Matters Most: Your Skills & Early Experience

Your skills are your greatest assets as you begin to navigate your career path, so it’s essential to choose the best ones to put in the spotlight. Make sure they’re highly relevant to your niche. 

If you’ve majored in communication, discuss your SEO prowess and SalesForce expertise. A computer science grad may highlight something else, like Tableau or Python. What do these drastically different skills have in common? They’re all very niche-specific. 

Focus on the tools you know how to use, such as Adobe Creative Suite, and skills relevant to the job you’re applying for, such as market analysis. 

Here’s what a communication major might put on their resume— adjust it to match your industry .

9 best recent college graduate skills

• CRM Management
• SEO Optimization
• Microsoft Office
• Market Analysis
• Email Campaigns
• Data Visualization

Sample recent college graduate work experience bullet points

You’ve worked your way through college, or you’re jumping head-first into your first job. Either way, measurable impact is your best friend. This is how you show recruiters your accomplishments in a tangible, eye-catching way.

Even if your experience doesn’t seem relevant to the role you want, you can still show recruiters skills and success that transcend any job. Besides paid jobs, discuss college projects, internships, volunteering, or even hobbies and interests , and focus on your accomplishments.

Here’s how to use measurable impact to your advantage:

• Assisted over 100 customers a day by providing recommendations and offering additional products, surpassing daily sales goals by 21% on average
• Started and managed social media profiles for a college study organization, increasing follower count to over 700 in 6 months
• Led a team of 6 students in a marketing project, developing a new marketing strategy for a small business that increased revenue by 9%
• Coordinated fundraising events for a local non-profit, raising over $3,000 within a month

Top 5 Tips for Your Recent College Graduate Resume

• If you need some more inspiration, our resume samples can give you a boost.
• You may have a clear career path, but it’s okay if you don’t. A college degree opens many doors—you don’t have to stick to applying to jobs that fit your major. Roles that often hire graduates regardless of their field of study include customer success managers, recruiters, and account executives.
• Don’t fear blank spaces—a cluttered resume often ends in the bin. Focus on technical skills, such as your knowledge of programming languages like Python, education, and key accomplishments from previous roles or internships.
• Tweak your experience and skills sections for each job you apply for. Don’t talk about Word if you’re applying to be a junior data scientist—focus on Python and R. You’ll get more responses and find jobs that suit you better. 
• You’ve spent all of that time in college studying hard, so don’t be afraid to brag! Mention your GPA if you’re proud of it, and include relevant courses and certifications, such as the HubSpot Inbound Marketing Certification, PMI, or GAIQ.

A resume objective won’t hurt if you have a clear career path in mind, but it’s not necessary. If you include it, make it more about what you bring to the company than your personal dreams. For example, mention how you want to utilize your experience in project management to maintain high employee retention and customer satisfaction.

Leverage your experience from internships, volunteering, short summer jobs, or even school projects to show off your skills. Don’t forget measurable impact: recruiters will love hearing that you “led a team of 5 to complete an Instagram campaign with stories and daily posts” instead of “completed a social media project.”

Pick a resume template that’s clear and concise. Put your contact information, education, major, GPA, and certifications in a visible spot. List the most essential skills for the job and work-adjacent experience.

Protect your data

This site uses cookies and related technologies for site operation, and analytics as described in our Privacy Policy . You may choose to consent to our use of these technologies, reject non-essential technologies, or further manage your preferences.

• Resume and Cover Letter
• Perfect Resume Guide for...

Perfect Resume Guide for Recent College Graduates

7 min read · Updated on April 04, 2024

Here's what to include in your entry-level college graduate resume

As you near your college graduation date, entry into the workforce gets closer and closer. That said, there are many factors to consider as you begin your post-grad job search. One of the most important considerations is how to develop your job marketing materials, like your resume, to grab the attention of employers. What resume standards do you need to consider, and what can you do to create a recent college graduate resume that stands out from the crowd?

Lucky for you, TopResume partnered with TheJobNetwork to produce a webinar all about resume writing for recent college graduates.. Watch the following video to learn how to write the perfect recent college graduate resume for an entry-level position.

Recent college graduate resume guide

Below are 14 reasons why the above example is an excellent resume for a recent college graduate.

1. He used a professional-looking email address

One thing recent college graduate resumes often include is an unprofessional email address. The email address [email protected] may have been funny when you were in college, but it's not the best choice to represent your professional brand in the working world. Do yourself a favor and set up a professional-looking email address that's reserved for your job-seeking activities.

2. It includes a customized link to his LinkedIn profile

Not only is LinkedIn a great place to build your professional brand and make connections, but recruiters also expect to find you on there.  In fact, a survey found that more than 90 percent of employers use LinkedIn to search for and evaluate job candidates. Make it easy for them to find you by including the link to your profile at the top of your resume. Take it a step further and customize your LinkedIn profile URL so it matches your brand and fits nicely on your resume.

3. The professional summary isn't full of fluff

It can be tempting to throw a bunch of buzzwords such as “ambitious” and “self-starter” into the summary section of your recent college graduate resume template, but employers know these are pure fluff and won't be impressed when they read them. 

Don't tell employers how you're a great team player. Instead, explain how you served on a committee to raise money for your lacrosse team or received accolades for a group project during your internship. Click on the following link for more tips to craft your professional summary .

4. Nicholas optimized his recent college graduate resume with relevant keywords

Your job application needs to get past multiple gatekeepers before it makes it into the hands of a hiring manager. Take a look at the job listings you're interested in and identify the key terms and phrases that routinely pop up. 

If you have those skills or were exposed to that industry or process, incorporate them into your resume. You can add them to a Core Competencies section, similar to Nicholas' resume, or incorporate them throughout the Work Experience section.

5. There aren't any mentions of high school

Hiring managers are interested in what you've done lately, not what you accomplished four or more years before you went to college as high school students. Focus on highlighting your activities, accomplishments, and the work experience that took place during your college career, calling special attention to anything that directly supports your job goals.

6. He lists his GPA

Only list your GPA on your entry-level resume if it's a 3.0/4.0 or higher. If the GPA in your major is higher than your overall GPA, feel free to use that instead. However, keep in mind that employers will know why you didn't include your GPA and may ask you about it during the interview process .

7. Nicholas didn't include his coursework

If you've held at least one internship that's relevant to your degree and career goals, there's no reason to also include a list of the courses you took. Employers will value your internship experience over the stuff you learned in the classroom any day of the week. 

However, if you did not intern, include a list of the 400-level courses you took that are most closely tied to your job goals to show hiring managers what subjects you're familiar with.

8. It plays up Nicholas' selling points

The format of your entry-level college-graduate resume will depend on the information you have to work with. If you have a ton of great internship experience, highlight that just below your professional resume summary and education sections. 

If you didn't hold any jobs that were related to your future career, play up other information instead, such as the high-level courses you took, major projects you participated in, academic or athletic honors you received, or extra-curricular activities and volunteer work that demonstrate your leadership roles and skills. 

In Nicholas' case, we divided his job experience into two categories so his relevant internships took the spotlight.    

9. Each employer has a company description

Help employers get a better understanding of the industries and work environments you were exposed to by including a line that describes each company with which you held an internship. 

If you're tight on space, feel free to eliminate this information for your summer jobs that aren't related to your current career goals. You can also omit this information from your internships if they were all held at companies with big, well-known brand names.

10. Nicholas bulleted the most important information

Use bullet points to draw attention to the information you believe recruiters will care most about. This may include an accomplishment or other major contribution you helped your team achieve.

11. Action verbs and numbers are used to describe his work experience

Notice how the bullets under Nicholas' roles begin with an action verb? This information focuses on how Nicholas contributed to an end result. When you're new to the workforce, you may not have many major accomplishments and contributions to include in your resume; however, use action verbs (e.g. created, led, managed, improved, developed, built) to describe your activities.

Nicholas also included quantifiable data to highlight his achievements. When showcasing accomplishments, it's best to include as many numbers as possible to represent the level of results achieved.  

12. His extracurricular activities and honors are provided

Your first resume out of college should play up your best selling points. This may include any projects or extracurricular activities you held while attending college, as well as any scholarships or other honors you received during that time. Click on the following link for more tips on how to build a resume using college involvement as experience .  

13. Nicholas' relevant skills are listed

Take a closer look at the job descriptions that interest you and note what technical skills they expect you to possess. This may include proficiency with a particular software program or language skill that's considered valuable in your chosen field. If you have a working knowledge of these platforms, list them on your resume. 

If you keep seeing a skill or tool mentioned that you don't know much about, look for free or low-cost online courses on the topic to bolster your skill set. Resources such as edX , SkillShare , and LinkedIn Learning are great places to start.

14. References are not included

As an entry-level professional, you only get one page of resume real estate — don't waste it by adding references or the phrase “References available upon request.” Employers usually won't ask for this information until you make it to a face-to-face interview, and they know you'll provide it if they request it.

Additional recent college graduate resume examples

Looking for more samples and advice? Click on the following links to check out a recording of our recent resume-writing webinar and take a look at another recent college graduate resume sample that TopResume's resident Career Expert Amanda Augustine provided for Business Insider.

Need help with your recent college graduate resume? Learn more about our professional resume-writing services to get a resume like the one above. You can also submit it for a free resume review to get started!

This blog was originally written by Amanda Augustine and has been updated by Ronda Suder. 

Recommended reading:

How to Check if My Resume is ATS-Friendly for Free

The Hottest Entry-Level Jobs for Recent Grads

17+ Job Resources for College Graduates

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

From Bland to Beautiful: How We Made This Professional's Resume Shine

See how your resume stacks up.

Career Advice Newsletter

Our experts gather the best career & resume tips weekly. Delivered weekly, always free.

Thanks! Career advice is on its way.

Share this article:

Let's stay in touch.

Subscribe today to get job tips and career advice that will come in handy.

Your information is secure. Please read our privacy policy for more information.

Graduate Resume Example for 2024 [Plus 10 Skills for Savvy Job-hunters]

Time to get a job to support your plans and kick off your mission to leave a mark on the world?

We’re here to help. 

Whether you’re looking for your first part-time job to support your studies or internship or if you’re a fresh graduate looking for your first full-time job, you’ve come to the right place. 

Here’s how we’re going to help you write your first student or graduate resume.

In a few minutes, you’ll hear four resume skills and insights that’ll last your entire working life:

• The 6 sections to include in your resume
• What a resume summary is – and how to write yours
• The 10 student skills every employer needs
• How to stand out from the crowd

Let’s follow the Jane Doe’s Novorésumé-created example throughout this guide.

Student and Graduates Resume Writing

Graduate resume sample.

Like the look of this? Stand out from other graduates and students, by creating your resume in minutes with templates that make hiring managers and recruiters take notice.

Here's more related resume examples that you might be interested in:

• College Resume
• High School Resume
• No Experience Resume
• Internship Resume
• Research Assistant Resume
• Teacher Resume

Sections to Include in a Student or Graduate Resume

Here’s a quick overview of the sections that you should include in every resume you write, regardless of how you customize it for each job advertisement or speculative cover letter .  

• Contact and Professional Social Media details . List your professional email address – (not that ‘hilarious’ one you signed up for when you were 13!) – your phone number, and your professional social network profile).
• Professional Resume Summary: A summary for a resume needs to dash off your professional achievements and your skills that are relevant to the job ad.
• A Relevant Professional Title: A professional title for a resume will need to match the position/title that is advertised in the job ad, such as ‘media graduate, junior developer, or paralegal’.
• Education and certificates: Include your thesis, if it’s relevant, and add key courses related to the job. Include your grade point average, scholarships or university medals – if you have them.
• Relevant Experience: Don’t stress about this, we all started somewhere. Include any paid, unpaid or volunteer roles you held during your studies. No experience? No worries! Skip over to this dedicated guide with resume tips for students with no experience yet .
• Skills and expertise: Wizard at Word? Proficient in Photoshop? Google Ad Words guru? Make sure to include your key hard and soft skills (more on this soon).

What about those ‘nice-to-have’ but not mandatory sections? 

Here’s a few you can put in or leave out, based on the role and your own judgement. 

• Conferences, courses and certificates
• Student organizations, clubs, or networks
• Publications and awards
• Volunteer Experience
• Personal Projects

Think you already have enough information to create your student or graduate resume ? 

Check out our intuitive resume builder , job-hunting tips and resume examples to help you choose the best resume template to reach recruiters and hiring managers. 

How to Write a Resume Summary for a Student or Graduate Resume

Let’s get moving on the content of your resume, starting with your resume summary .

Hold up! Wondering what a resume summary is? 

It’s quite straightforward. 

Basically, a resume summary it’s a short paragraph at the start of your resume which sums up your experience and suitability for the role. 

It’s a bit like that elevator pitch you might hear people talk about in movies, start-ups or sales-driven business areas. 

Instead of pitching a company or idea, you pitch you – and the benefits and value you bring, but there is no need to mention everything - for example, your work for an  essay service  may raise some eyebrows.

Time for us to look at Jane’s resume to see this in action.

Her summary is clear and direct. 

Being in business means knowing about a lot of interconnected areas and Jane shows that she is versatile by highlighting her ‘proven and tested’ skills in procurement, marketing and sales – just some of the key areas that every solid business professional needs.

• “An independent and self-motivated business student with proven and tested business, procurement, sales, and marketing skills.”
• “An award-winning and confident communication graduate, able to establish rapport quickly and conduct training sessions with clarity and enthusiasm.”

Top Skills to Include in a Student or Graduate Resume

Let’s take a look at some of Jane’s skills now. 

She includes a nice mix of technical (hard) and soft skills on her resume. 

She talks about her proficiency with Google advertising technology, Typeform, and SendGrid, while highlighting four in-demand soft skills. 

Now you might be worried that you don’t have any of the skills Jane lists in her resume. 

Don’t worry, we bet you have plenty that you can include once you give it some thought. 

Your hard skills will differ drastically based on what you’ve studied too.

And here’s a little secret that will lift your confidence and readiness to complete your resume. 

There are some Soft Skills that almost every single employer will need. 

Here they are:

• Communication
• Adaptability
• Punctuality
• Organization
• Flexibility
• Problem Solving Abilities

How many of them would you add to your college resume template ? 

How to Stand Out From the Crowd as a Student or Fresh Graduate

You clever clogs out there are probably asking: “What if you share these skills with many other applicants?”

How on earth do you stand out?

Simple: you highlight your individual achievements and how they relate to the job.

Jane does this by linking her past work and volunteer experience to results. She successfully overcame personal targets – suggesting she’s driven – for three months in a row. 

This kind of example is a really strong way to show a high-performance attitude, without bragging or claiming ‘I’m a high performer’. It’s showing, not telling. 

A lack of experience is one of the big worries that students and graduates have when first applying for jobs and working on new resumes.  

Look how Jane solves this problem by highlighting her leadership in event planning and social media while at University.

Feeling inspired? Ready to create a resume that helps you get that interview? 

Suggested Reading:

• How to Write a Professional Resume - Extensive Guide
• Cover Letter Writing - Extensive Guide + Examples
• 43+ Resume Tips and Tricks to Land Your Next Job

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

The New Grad Resume Guide: Everything You Need to Get Started

How to approach a resume as a new graduate, with everything you need to get you started.

Ready to show your future employer what you can do?

There’s no better way to do it than with a neat, concise, strongly written resume that clearly lays out your accomplishments, accolades, and skills for competitive employment. As a recent grad looking for work, there are certain attributes you’ll want to prioritize on your resume, especially if applying to an entry level position that focuses heavily on educational requirements and graduation dates.

What your resume needs

• Personal information : This includes your full name, address, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile link (if you have one). Make sure the email you include is professional.
• A strong objective.
• An updated education section : You might have written a resume before for a part- or full-time job while in college. For those of you who have, this might be the first time you add that bachelor’s degree to your resume.
• Relevant work experience .
• Honors and achievements : Because you want to sell the best version of you that you can!

Picture what you want your resume to look like. Having a format in mind will make it easier to organize your information in a concise, attractive way. You can find free resume templates everywhere from Google Drive to Microsoft Word, or you can create your own using Canva or with the Adobe Creative Suite. You can even buy unique resume and cover letter templates on Etsy!

No matter which design you choose, your personal information should always go at the top in first name last name format. Your name should serve as the title, so to speak, and is generally bolded or in a larger font when compared to the rest of the text. Include the rest of your personal information below. Don’t forget to include any relevant portfolio links if you’re applying for a creative job.

The objective

A typical entry-level resume may include either an objective or summary. However, summaries are best saved for applicants who have more extensive work experience. Objectives are best suited for new grads and anyone starting their career.

Objectives are formal in tone, and should be written specifically for each employer. Use these one to three sentences, max, to convey what you are seeking in a professional role.

For example:

Dedicated nurse in top 5% of graduating class seeking an opportunity to work at Allies’ Pediatric Nursing Unit, fostering healthy and stable recovery utilizing advanced knowledge of human growth and development.

Notice how much weight a strong objective can pull. It should describe your value, attributes, educational accolades, and desire to work at the particular company you’re working for. When applying to several jobs, you must remember to tweak this every time.

Your education

The education section of a resume is standard. But, if you’re a recent grad, you’ll want to pay closer attention to this section to include your academic achievements. Note that you should place it right below your objective, listing your bachelor’s degree and any other relevant certificates. Do not include your high school information.

This section should include:

• The full name of your college or university
• Your degree
• Dates in school, including the date of graduation
• GPA (if 3.0 or higher)

Nebraska BSN University

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Aug. 2010 - May 2015

Honors and achievements

It’s worthwhile to note where your honors and achievements should go.

If you have one or two great achievements you want to list, it may be best to include it within your education section. But if you have several achievements, especially if they can help you get the job, keep it as a separate section to avoid convoluting the education section.

No special formatting is required. Feel free to include any of the following:

• Any societies you were a member of
• Any honors you earned upon graduation (e.g. Cum Laude)
• Any leadership activities you participated in

Your work experience

Intern , volunteer, full-time employee… whichever it may be, include as many relevant experiences as possible. Relevance is the key, though. You might be tempted to fill this space with whichever experience you have just to add to your resume.

But if you don’t have any relevant experience… It’s okay. Analyze which transferable skills can apply to the job. For example; if you volunteered at a hospital that required data entry and you familiarized yourself with Microsoft Excel, include that.

Be precise in how you articulate your experiences, too. Keep your statements about your experiences and skills short, impactful, and actionable. When listing them, include the place of employment, your title/position, dates employed, and accomplishments for each, in descending order.

Here is an example for someone with transferable skills applying to a nursing position:

ADDT Homeless Shelter and Clinic, Feb. 2017 - Jan. 2019

Soup Kitchen Volunteer

• Helped serve thousands of patients, with dietary restrictions, food suited for their needs and recommended by their doctor
• Participated in biweekly outreach to promote free medical services
• Ideated the transition from soup kitchen to restaurant to improve patient mood when dining on site

As you can see, this applicant is highlighting their customer service, health, initiative, and leadership knowledge and skills in an exciting way. Include about three to four experiences that yield results (e.g., an idea coming into fruition or how many times you helped a company succeed), and you’ll have a strong work experience section on your resume!

Additional sections

If you haven’t filled up your one-page resume by now, consider adding these sections:

• Skills : Does the job ask for your expertise in Adobe Creative Suite or Microsoft Office? Articulate your skills with these programs by listing them in a skills section. You can also include soft skills such as communication, time management, problem-solving, etc. You can also include any additional languages you speak.
• References : Do you have a great recommendation from your internship supervisor? List them as a reference! Though, don’t feel compelled to write a reference section if you’re straight out of school.

Once you’ve got your resume set, make sure to upload it through Handshake. If your college has a career services center, you may have access to feedback for your resumes and cover letters, too!

Find the right jobs for you. Get hired.

Related stories, most recent stories.

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Career Planning
• Finding a Job

College Graduate Resume Examples and Writing Tips

What to Include in Your Resume

Resume writing tips for college grads, college graduate resume template, college graduate resume example, more college resume samples.

If you're a recent college graduate, you might not have much work experience. However, you can still write a strong resume that will get you hired. By emphasizing unpaid internships, volunteer work, and positions in school organizations, you can show you have the skills needed to succeed in the workforce.

Read below for tips on writing a strong college graduate resume. Also see below for a resume sample for a recent college graduate.

Begin with a resume summary.  A  resume summary  (sometimes called a “summary of qualifications” or “qualifications profile”) is a statement (either narrative or formatted in bullets) at the top of a resume that immediately attracts a hiring manager’s attention to the skills you would bring to their organization.

The summary statement should be placed immediately below your name and contact information. 

Use this section to demonstrate that you have the qualifications that are emphasized in the job listing of the position you’re applying for.

Use keywords.  To make your resume stand out, use words from the job listing in your resume. You might include these  keywords  in your resume summary, your descriptions of work experiences, and/or your section headings. For example, if the listing says the company is seeking a candidate who is “tech-savvy,” you might include a section called “Technological Skills.” Again, use words that clearly link your resume to the job listing.

Mention a high GPA.  At this point, at the beginning of your career, it’s a good strategy to include your GPA on your resume if it is 3.5 or above. You should also include any academic awards (Dean’s List, scholarships, etc.). After you’ve racked up three or four years of work experience, though, you can remove this information from your resume, replacing it with examples of professional achievements.

Emphasize your soft skills.  “ Soft skills ” like teamwork , leadership, or good communication talents are always a selling point with employers. For many entry-level positions, they can be as important as job-specific  hard skills . Describe how, during your college years, you have led or contributed to team projects, either in the classroom or as a member of campus or extracurricular organizations. Additional soft skills that are good to mention include: active  listening skills ,  “people” skills , decision-making, and self-motivation.

Emphasize education.  As a recent college graduate, your education is one of your strongest assets. Include an  “Education” section  towards the top of your resume. Include the college you attended, your graduation date, and your major and minor. If you have a strong  GPA , include that as well. You might also include any study abroad experiences. Most employers see a well-traveled student as a plus.

Highlight any related experience.  If you have any work experience, include this. However, you can also include any other relevant experience. This might include volunteer experience, unpaid internships, or positions in school organizations. Even if these are unpaid positions, they can still display the qualities that will make you a strong candidate for a job opening.

Use resume examples.  When writing your first resume out of college, it can be hard to know where to start. Examples can give you ideas on how to structure your resume and what kind of language to include. Check out these student resume samples, as well as the sample below. However, make sure to always revise an example to fit your own background and experience.

Proofread and edit.  Thoroughly  proofread your resume  for spelling and grammar errors before submitting it. Also make sure your format is consistent: for example, you should use the same size bullet points throughout your resume. Ask a friend, family member, or college career counselor to read through your resume as well.

This is an example of a resume for a college graduate. Download the resume template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Here's a text version of the resume example to review.

College Graduate Resume Example (Text Version)

Susan Quigley New York, NY 123-555-8910 Cell: 555-555-1234 susan.quigley@abcu.edu 

CAREER OBJECTIVE

Soon-to-graduate honors college student, fluent in Spanish and with several years of teaching and tutoring the language to adults and students, seeks a position as a translator at a top East Coast firm.

ABC UNIVERSITY, New York, NY Bachelor of Arts in Education , May 2022 Double Majors: English and Latin American Studies; Minor: Spanish; Overall GPA: 3.875

• Honors and dean’s list every semester.
• Studied abroad in Bogota, Colombia, January-May 2020.
• Served as president of the school Spanish club; tutored nearly two dozen students in Spanish.
• Received three “Best Student Awards.”

RELATED EXPERIENCE

CERVANTES LIBRARY, New York, NY Library Assistant , September 2019-Present Perform general administrative duties to support professional staff and assist students with research.

• Designed a presentation, published to the university website, outlining how to most effectively use all of ABC University’s facilities when undertaking a research project.
• Received award for “Outstanding Student Employee of the Year” due to excellent customer service and research skills.

CALLES Y SUEÑOS CULTURAL SPACE, Bogota, Columbia Intern , Spring 2029 Helped design and implement programs in which community-based artists traveled to schools to work with children, teaching them about expression through art.

• Assisted teaching complimentary English lessons to community members of all ages.

QUEENS COMMUNITY LIBRARY, Queens, NY English Tutor/Volunteer , January 2018-May 2018 Assisted students in writing and proofreading essays, utilizing rhetorical devices.

• Cataloged thousands of donated books, CDs, and DVDs in Excel database.
• Started a weekly book club group to help elementary students learn basic Spanish.

Other Experience:

Summer Counselor, NY Arts Camp, Catskill, NY • Trombonist, All-State Wind Ensemble • Swim Team Assistant Coach, YMCA, Brooklyn, NY • Editor-in-Chief, ABC University Student Newspaper

Review more resume examples for college students and recent graduates , listed by type of position and type of job.

How to Get Your Resume Noticed

• A resume summary, which briefly lists your qualifications and soft skills, will spark a hiring manager’s immediate interest in your candidacy.
• Emphasize the skills that are requested in the “Preferred Qualifications” section of the job announcement.
• Highlight your achievements, including significant college and extracurricular accomplishments.
• Carefully edit your resume to correct grammatical, spelling, and formatting errors.

• Career Blog

Resume Writing for Recent College Graduates in 2024

As a recent college graduate, finding full-time employment can be a daunting task. However, having a well-written resume can make all the difference in landing your dream job. A resume serves as your personal marketing tool and is often the first impression a potential employer has of you. For this reason, it is important to take valuable time and effort to craft a resume that showcases your unique qualifications, achievements, and experiences.

The primary purpose of this article is to provide recent college graduates with a comprehensive guide to writing a successful resume. Covering all essential components, we will explore why a well-written resume is crucial for recent graduates in today’s competitive job market. In addition, we will provide practical tips and examples of how to curate each section of your resume to make an impression on your future employer.

This article aims to be a one-stop-shop for everything resume-related for recent college graduates. Whether you are a Liberal Arts major or an Engineering major, the tips and advice provided will be relevant and effective in crafting a great resume. Trust us; a well-written resume is the first step in securing an interview, and ultimately, the job you’ve always wanted.

So, buckle up and get ready to take your resume to the next level!

Understanding the Job Market for Recent College Graduates

As a recent college graduate, understanding the job market can be a crucial factor in securing employment. In this section, we will discuss the current status of the job market, demands and expectations of employers, and job search strategies for recent college graduates.

Current Status of the Job Market

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the job market has faced significant challenges. Many companies have been forced to downsize or close altogether, leading to a decrease in available job opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of September 2021, the unemployment rate for recent college graduates aged 20-24 was 7.7%, higher than the overall unemployment rate of 4.8%.

Despite these challenges, certain industries such as technology, healthcare, and education have seen a rise in hiring. It is important to research the current job market trends in your desired industry to better tailor your job search efforts.

Demands and Expectations of Employers

With a competitive job market, employers have high demands and expectations for their potential employees. It is important to demonstrate not only academic achievements but also other skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. Employers also value relevant internships or work experience, as it shows practical application of skills learned in school.

A strong resume and cover letter demonstrating these skills can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview for your dream job. It is also important to showcase your knowledge and passion for the industry, which can be achieved through networking events or adding a blog section to your personal website or LinkedIn profile.

Job Search Strategies for Recent College Graduates

Job search strategies for recent graduates should be tailored to their specific needs, including attention to entry-level positions and internships. Networking events, informational interviews, and online job boards such as Handshake, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor can be useful in finding job opportunities.

It is important to consistently customize resumes and cover letters for each job application and follow up with thank-you emails after interviews. Furthermore, staying optimistic and persistent in the job search process can be challenging, but it is important to stay focused on long-term career goals rather than immediate job offers.

Understanding the current job market, employer demands and expectations, and job search strategies can help recent college graduates successfully navigate the job search process. With dedication and perseverance, recent graduates can identify and secure job opportunities that align with their interests and career goals.

Choosing the Right Resume Format

When it comes to creating a resume, the format you choose can have a significant impact on how well your qualifications and experience are showcased to potential employers. Here are the different types of resume formats to consider:

Chronological Resume

A chronological resume is the most traditional format, listing your work experience in reverse-chronological order. This format works best for job seekers who have a steady career progression and no significant gaps in their employment history.

Pros:  A chronological resume is easy to read and presents a clear timeline of your work experience.

Cons:  It may emphasize employment gaps or lack of experience in a particular field.

Functional Resume

A functional resume emphasizes skills, rather than work experience, and is ideal for those who are changing careers or have gaps in their employment history. This format highlights your qualifications and relevant skills, rather than the specific companies or job titles you’ve held.

Pros:  It allows you to draw attention to your key skills and abilities, rather than employment history.

Cons:  It may appear as if you have something to hide if you have gaps in your employment history.

Combination Resume

A combination resume, as the name suggests, combines elements of both chronological and functional resumes. It lists your work experience in reverse-chronological order, while also highlighting your key skills.

Pros:  This format is great if you have a lot of relevant experience but still want to emphasize specific skills.

Cons:  It can sometimes be hard to balance the two formats, making your resume look cluttered.

Which format works best for recent college graduates?

As a recent college graduate, you may have limited work experience to include on your resume. Therefore, a functional or combination format may work best, as it allows you to highlight your skills and education. However, if you have relevant internships, part-time jobs or freelance work, a chronological format may be a good fit.

Choosing the right resume format can make all the difference in how your qualifications are presented to potential employers. Consider your work experience and career goals when choosing the format that will best showcase your skills and experience.

Writing a Compelling Objective/Summary Statement

When it comes to writing a resume, the objective or summary statement is the first thing that recruiters and potential employers see. This is why it is important to create an effective objective/summary statement that highlights your strengths and demonstrates your potential as a candidate.

Importance of an Objective/Summary Statement

An objective/summary statement is an essential part of your resume because it sets the tone for the rest of your document. It is the first thing that potential employers see, and it can help determine whether they will continue reading or move on to the next candidate.

A well-written objective/summary statement can also help position you as a strong candidate for the job. It can highlight your skills, interests, and relevant experience, as well as showcase your personality and professionalism.

Techniques for Writing an Effective Statement

To create an effective objective/summary statement, consider the following techniques:

Tailor your statement to the job you are applying for by highlighting the skills and experience that match the job description.

Keep it short and concise, with a maximum of two to three sentences.

Use action words that showcase your accomplishments and skills, such as “developed,” “managed,” and “achieved.”

Avoid generic language that can be applied to anyone, and instead focus on what sets you apart from other candidates.

Use active voice instead of passive voice to make the statement more engaging and compelling.

Example Objective/Summary Statements for Recent College Graduates

For recent college graduates, a strong objective/summary statement can help position them as valuable candidates in the job market. Here are a few example statements:

“Recent college graduate with a degree in marketing seeking an entry-level position where I can apply my skills in market analysis, social media management, and brand strategy to drive business growth.”

“Motivated recent college graduate with a degree in computer science seeking a software development role where I can leverage my experience in programming languages such as Java and Python to develop innovative products and applications.”

“Recent college graduate with a degree in psychology seeking a position as a human resources assistant where I can utilize my strong analytical and communication skills to support the recruitment and retention of top talent.”

By using these techniques and examples, recent college graduates can create a compelling objective/summary statement that positions them as strong candidates for their desired roles.

Highlighting Relevant Coursework and Academics

For recent college graduates, highlighting academic achievements on a resume can separate them from other candidates. It demonstrates their ability to learn and apply knowledge in a specific field, as well as their dedication and hard work throughout their academic career.

Showcasing relevant coursework and projects is an effective way to highlight academic achievements. Graduates should include the most relevant coursework, especially if it directly relates to the job they are applying for. They can also include projects, research, and internships that they worked on during their academic career that demonstrate their skills and knowledge in the field.

It is important to make sure that academic achievements do not overwhelm the reader, however. Graduates should highlight the most relevant information and provide brief explanations of each achievement. They may also consider using bullet points or a separate section for academic achievements to keep it organized and easy to read.

The following are tips for highlighting academic achievements without overwhelming the reader:

• Focus on the most relevant coursework, projects, and internships
• Use bullet points or a separate section for academic achievements
• Provide brief explanations for each achievement
• Tailor academic achievements to the job they are applying for
• Do not include every achievement – prioritize the most impressive and relevant ones

By showcasing relevant coursework and academic achievements in a clear and concise manner, recent college graduates can make their resume stand out and show employers their potential as a valuable asset to their company.

Emphasizing Relevant Work Experience

As a recent college graduate, your relevant work experience is crucial to landing your first job. Employers want to see that you have practical skills, a strong work ethic, and a track record of success in your field. Here are some strategies to emphasize your work experience on your resume and during interviews:

Importance of Relevant Work Experience for Recent College Graduates

Relevant work experience demonstrates to employers that you have already gained relevant skills and knowledge in your field. It also shows that you have the motivation and drive to apply those skills in a professional setting. In today’s competitive job market, having relevant work experience can set you apart from other recent college graduates who may have only theoretical knowledge in their field.

Strategies to Emphasize Work Experience

Organize your resume by relevance: Focus on the work experience that directly relates to the job you’re applying for. Make sure that this content is prominently featured at the top of your resume. This way, hiring managers can quickly find the experience and skills they’re looking for.

Use strong action verbs: Begin each sentence with an action verb to emphasize your accomplishments in your previous roles. For example, instead of saying “I assisted with customer service,” say “I improved customer satisfaction by resolving concerns and providing personalized service.”

Quantify your accomplishments: Use numbers, percentages, and figures to demonstrate the impact you made in previous roles. For example, instead of saying “I helped increase sales,” say “I implemented a new sales strategy that resulted in a 25% increase in revenue.”

Highlight transferable skills: Even if your previous work experience isn’t directly related to the job you’re applying for, highlight transferable skills that are applicable to the position. For example, if you worked in retail, you could emphasize your customer service and communication skills.

Example Work Experience for Recent College Graduates

Here’s an example of how a recent college graduate with relevant work experience can emphasize their experience on their resume:

Marketing Coordinator, ABC Corp.

Developed and executed successful social media campaigns that increased brand awareness by 20%

• Created and managed content for company blog, resulting in a 15% increase in website traffic
• Coordinated email marketing campaigns that resulted in a 30% increase in sales
• Provided customer support through social media channels and resolved issues, resulting in a 95% satisfaction rate

By highlighting specific accomplishments and quantifying the impact of their work, this recent college graduate is demonstrating to potential employers that they have the skills and experience needed to succeed in a marketing role.

With these strategies and examples, recent college graduates can emphasize their relevant work experience and make a strong impression on potential employers.

Showcasing Transferable Skills

Transferable skills are skills that can be applied across multiple industries and job roles. These skills are not job-specific but are gained through experiences in various areas of life, including school, work, and personal endeavors. Hiring managers look for transferable skills as they indicate a candidate’s adaptability and ability to succeed in a new role.

For recent college graduates, transferable skills can be gained through extracurricular activities, volunteer work, internships, or part-time jobs. Some examples of transferable skills that recent college graduates possess include:

• Communication skills: Recent college graduates have honed their communication skills through class presentations, group projects, and discussions. They can effectively communicate ideas and thoughts through written and oral means, making them an asset to any team.
• Time management skills: College requires a lot of juggling between classes, assignments, and social life. Recent college graduates have developed excellent time management skills to balance their schedules, which is an invaluable skill in the workplace.
• Leadership skills: Leadership can come in many forms, whether it be leading a group project or holding an executive position in a student organization. Recent college graduates have had many opportunities to take on leadership roles, making them effective problem solvers and decision-makers.
• Analytical and critical thinking skills: College coursework requires students to think critically, analyze information, and solve problems. These skills are essential in the workplace as they allow employees to approach tasks creatively and think outside the box.

To showcase transferable skills in a resume, recent college graduates can use the following techniques:

• Identify transferable skills: Review past experiences and identify any transferable skills gained. Focus on your strengths and how they can apply to the job you are interested in.
• Highlight transferable skills in the summary: Create a brief summary at the top of the resume highlighting transferable skills and achievements. This will immediately grab the recruiter’s attention and pique their interest.
• Incorporate transferable skills into job descriptions: When detailing past work experiences, incorporate transferable skills into job descriptions rather than simply listing duties performed.
• Use action verbs: Use action verbs such as “managed,” “organized,” or “resolved” to showcase transferable skills in job descriptions. This makes the resume more engaging and demonstrates the applicant’s abilities.
• Tailor the resume: Make sure the resume is tailored to the position the applicant is applying for. Highlighting transferable skills that align with the requirements listed in the job description will increase the chances of being selected for an interview.

Showcasing transferable skills on a resume is crucial for recent college graduates to improve their chances of landing their first job. By identifying and highlighting these skills, they can demonstrate their ability to adapt and excel in a new role, making them stand out to hiring managers.

Including Extracurricular Activities and Volunteer Experience

When it comes to resume writing for recent college graduates, including extracurricular activities and volunteer experience is critical. Employers want to see not only your academic achievements, but also your ability to balance various responsibilities outside of the classroom. Here are some tips for highlighting these experiences in a resume:

Make it relevant.  While any extracurricular activity or volunteer experience can demonstrate your skills and work ethic, try to focus on those that relate to the job or industry you are applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a marketing position, highlight your work on the school newspaper or as a social media intern.

Use bullet points.  While resumes should be concise, it’s important to provide enough detail about your extracurricular activities and volunteer experience. Use bullet points to list your responsibilities and accomplishments, and be specific about any leadership roles you held.

Quantify your impact.  Whenever possible, use numbers or metrics to showcase your accomplishments. For example, if you raised money for a charity through a fundraising event, include how much money you raised and how many people attended.

Be honest.  It’s tempting to exaggerate your involvement in extracurricular activities and volunteer experience, but it’s important to be truthful about your level of participation. Employers may ask for further details or references, and you don’t want to get caught in a lie.

Here are some example extracurricular activities and volunteer experience for a recent college graduate:

Volunteer at a local animal shelter:  responsible for walking dogs, cleaning cages, and organizing adoption events. Increased adoption rates by 25% through social media marketing and outreach efforts.

President of the student government association:  led meetings, collaborated with university administration, and planned campus-wide events. Increased student engagement by 30% through new programming initiatives.

Member of the debate club:  competed in regional and national tournaments, honed public speaking skills, and organized practice sessions for new members. Won first place in a national tournament in the category of persuasive speaking.

By including extracurricular activities and volunteer experience on your resume, you demonstrate to employers that you have a well-rounded set of skills and experiences. By following the tips above, you can effectively showcase these experiences and stand out as a strong candidate.

Writing an Outstanding Education Section

An often overlooked section of a resume is the education section, but it can actually be one of the most important. For recent college graduates, it is especially crucial to showcase one’s education and any academic achievements to stand out from other candidates.

Importance of a Well-Written Education Section

A well-written education section can demonstrate to employers:

• Your level of education and qualifications.
• Any academic awards or honors that you have received.
• Your commitment to learning and improving your skills.
• Your potential to succeed in the position you are applying for.

But a poorly written education section can leave a negative impression on potential employers and decrease your chances of getting an interview.

Techniques for Writing an Outstanding Education Section

To write an outstanding education section, consider the following techniques:

• List your education in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent degree. Include the degree and major, the institution and its location, and the graduation date.
• If you have a high GPA or academic honors, include it in this section. Doing so can demonstrate your academic achievements and dedication to the field of study.
• If you have relevant coursework or certifications that are relevant to the position you are applying for, include them.
• If you have limited work experience, expand on your education section by highlighting relevant coursework, group projects or academic research that align with the position you are applying for.

Example Education Section for Recent College Graduates

Here is an example of an education section for recent college graduates:

Bachelor of Science in Marketing University of California, Los Angeles Los Angeles, CA Graduated May 2020

Relevant coursework: Consumer Behavior, Marketing Research, Digital Marketing, Sales Management

GPA: 3.8/4.0 Academic Honors: Dean’s List, Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Society

During my time at UCLA, I was actively involved in the marketing association, where I participated in case competitions and networked with industry professionals. Additionally, I completed a marketing research project for a local startup company, which helped me better understand the intricacies of market research and served as a valuable experience for my career development.

By showcasing relevant coursework, achievements, academic honors and relevant projects or experiences, this education section shows how a recent college graduate can make the most of their education to stand out to potential employers.

Using Action Verbs and Keywords for Impact

In today’s competitive job market, it is important to make a lasting impression with a well-crafted resume. One of the key components of a successful resume is the use of action verbs and keywords. These keywords help to make your resume easily searchable by hiring managers and highlight your skills and qualifications.

Importance of action verbs and keywords in a resume

Action verbs are words that express an action or accomplishment. They help to make your resume more dynamic and engaging while showing your potential employer what you are capable of achieving. Keywords, on the other hand, are specific words and phrases that are relevant to your skills and experience. They are often used by recruiters and hiring managers to filter resumes and identify qualified candidates.

By using action verbs and keywords in your resume, you can make it stand out from the rest and increase your chances of getting noticed by potential employers. This is especially important for recent college graduates who may not have a lot of work experience.

Techniques for using action verbs and keywords

To make the most impact with your resume, start by using action verbs that are directly related to the job you are applying for. This shows that you have the necessary skills and experience and makes it easy for the hiring manager to see why you are a good fit for the position.

Some effective action verbs to use in your resume include:

• Implemented

In addition to using action verbs, it is also important to use keywords that are relevant to your industry and the job you are applying for. This can include specific technical skills, certifications, or industry-related knowledge.

To identify the keywords to use in your resume, review job postings from companies you are interested in and make note of the most frequently used words and phrases. Incorporate these keywords into your resume, making sure they are placed in appropriate areas such as your summary, experience section, and skills section.

Example action verbs and keywords for recent college graduates

As a recent college graduate, you may not have a lot of work experience. However, you can still make an impact with your resume by using the right action verbs and keywords.

Formatting and Editing Tips for Your Resume

As a recent college graduate, it is crucial to have a well-formatted and edited resume to stand out among other job applicants. Here, we will provide you with some useful guidelines, techniques, and examples to help you achieve success in your job search.

Guidelines for Clear and Effective Formatting

Keep it concise: A one-page resume is ideal for recent college graduates. Be thorough, but only include relevant information that showcases your skills and experience.

Use headings and bullet points: Organize your resume using clear and concise headings and bullet points to make it easy to read and skim.

Choose a professional font: Stick to classic, easy-to-read fonts such as Times New Roman or Arial, and make sure that your font size is consistent throughout your resume.

Use white space: Leave enough white space on your resume to make it look clean and uncluttered.

Techniques for Editing Your Resume

Proofread for errors: Spelling mistakes, grammatical errors or typos can be detrimental to your job application. Edit and proofread your resume multiple times to avoid these mistakes.

Customize it for each job application: Edit your resume to fit the job description, highlighting the skills and experience relevant to the job you are applying for.

Have someone review it: Ask someone to review your resume to get an outside perspective and spot any mistakes or areas that could be improved.

Example Formatting and Editing Tips for Recent College Graduates

Let’s take a look at some formatting and editing tips specific to recent college graduates:

Highlight education: Recent college graduates should focus on their education first, adding other relevant sections such as experience or skills as needed.

Use action verbs: Begin each bullet point with an action verb to highlight your responsibilities and achievements. For example: “Developed a new marketing campaign that increased website traffic by 30%.”

Emphasize internships or part-time jobs: If you don’t have a lot of experience, highlight any relevant internships or part-time jobs in your resume to showcase your skills and experience.

Include relevant coursework: If you have coursework that is relevant to the job you are applying for, include it in your resume to showcase your knowledge and skills.

By following these guidelines and techniques, you can create a well-formatted and edited resume that showcases your skills and experience to potential employers. Remember, your resume is your first impression and could be the key to landing your dream job.

Related Articles

• How to Be a Successful Sales Manager in 2023
• 20 Best Jobs for Introverts & Tips for a Successful Job Hunt
• Six Sigma Consultant Resume Samples: Complete Guide for 2023
• Strategic Planner: Job Description, Duties, and Requirements
• 22 Job Interview Tips and Tricks: How to Ace Your Interview

Rate this article

0 / 5. Reviews: 0

More from ResumeHead

• Partners & Affiliates
• Resume Writing Services
• Resume Writing Advice
• Sample Resumes
• e-Resume Tutorials
• Interview Advice
• Job Search Advice and Strategies
• Career Planning Advice
• Education Center
• Free Career Planning Tests
• Salary Surveys
• Cost of Living
• Company Databases

Part 1 - Resumes, e-Resumes, and CVs

• How to Write a Job-Winning Resume
• The Most Effective Resume Formats

Resume Strategies for New Graduates

• Resume Strategies for Changing Careers
• Improving Resume Response
• Handling Requests for Salary Histories or Salary Requirements
• 5 Common Resume Screen-out Factors
• Including Graphics in a Resume
• Resume Length — Myths and Facts
• When to Include an Objective in a Resume
• The Difference between a Resume and Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• What Everyone Should Know about Electronic Resumes (e-Resumes)
• The Keyword Resume Explained
• The ASCII Text Resume Explained
• Submitting Resumes Electronically

Part 2 - Cover Letters and Letters of Application

Part 3 - federal resumes, ksa, ses, ecq, and government jobs.

Emphasize skills gained through experience and studies to fully develop a powerful, qualitative resume.

An effective resume captures an employer's interest within the first 15 seconds. Typically, a new graduate's most relevant skills are gained through academic study. However, unless a candidate's education is in a highly sought after area, competing with more experienced candidates may prove challenging---especially if one does not have related work experience. Thus, a well-designed resume with a qualitative (versus quantitative) focus will immediately pique interest and maximize the marketing potential of your recent education, practicum, internships, etc.

Rarely will the title of a program or degree fully convey the full breadth of one's skill set. A carefully designed resume---through strategic presentation of key program elements and your personal areas of focus---will quickly demonstrate to an employer the skills you bring to the table; this in turn allows you to stand out from other candidates. An Academic Skill Conversion™ resume leverages your hands-on classroom, project, lab, and internship activities as they pertain to your current career goals. And if you have related work and volunteer experience, it can be used to add further value to your overall presentation.

Also, it is not uncommon for new graduates to underestimate the strength of transferable skills gained through work that is unrelated to the degree. For example, you may have held service-oriented positions in the retail or hospitality industries. In these instances, it can be advantageous to show professional strengths that demonstrate aptitude in customer service, administration, or general operations. This is achieved by developing a well-targeted qualifications profile.

In addition to an effective qualifications profile, you can present specific details of projects in the experience section that follows your profile and education. If you have work, volunteer or internship experience, it would be listed here, in reverse chronological order. For examples, click here to visit the "Student/Recent Graduate" section on the Professional Resume and Cover Letter Examples page.

Ultimately, the key to a successful job search will be largely determined by the power of your presentation. You've worked hard to earn your degree, and now it is time to have your degree work for you.

• Expert Advice on Resumes

Long-standing member of:

• Partner & Affiliates
• Safe & Secure
• Our Guarantee

Resume tips for recent graduates

Your resume is like the cover of a book about you—a quick way for prospective employers to learn whether you might be a fit at their company, and—importantly—whether they'd like to learn more about you. The more interest you can generate, the more likely you are to land an interview, which is the next step in your journey to landing a job. But how do you write a resume when you're just out of school and your professional experience might be limited? Read on for our top resume tips for recent college grads.

Use a professional email address

While your university email address is great for school-related contact, set up a professional email address to make a first impression that shows you mean business. If you don't already have an email that works, you can sign up for a free email at Outlook.com .

List internships and part-time jobs

Showcase your experience by highlighting your internships and other jobs. Add bullet points to point out your most exciting achievements. Remember that your resume is telling a story, and be sure to craft the narrative you want. Even if your work history doesn't match what you want to do in the future, use those experiences to showcase the recurring skills that you'll use in your dream job. For example, do you want to go into sales? Great! Show how you increased sales and revenue in your retail position. Interested in graphic design ? Don't forget to mention that you designed flyers and promotional materials in your summer internship. ​

List achievements, extracurriculars, and leadership opportunities

No matter your future employer's management style, companies like to know that you can work autonomously. Think about the times you stepped forward to lead a group or initiative and highlight those on your resume. Also, use extracurricular activities to showcase the things you're passionate about. And if you've received awards and recognition, show them off!

Use active verbs and numbers

When describing your activities and achievements, use strong verbs to showcase the actions you took. Then, add in numbers to show how you contributed to the company's bottom line.

Add your GPA when it makes sense

Top of your class? Let prospective employers know by sharing your GPA. A good guideline is that anything over a 3.0 is worth considering, and over a 3.5 is great to list.

Stick to university work

You may have aced high school, but you'll want to list only your university education on your resume, like college or post-graduate coursework. If you haven't yet graduated, you can add your college, major, and expected graduation date.

Add a link to LinkedIn

Recruiters and hiring managers often browse LinkedIn to look for candidates for their open jobs, so while you're creating your resume, make sure to update your LinkedIn profile to increase your odds of getting found. Then, add a link to LinkedIn on your resume so employers can find the most current information about you. On LinkedIn, your colleagues can also endorse you for particular skills. If there's something you're great at, ask someone you've worked with to provide an endorsement to help elevate your talents.

Resume templates to get you started

Ready to work on your resume? Browse Microsoft's Resume and Cover Letters collection to find a resume template that's right for you.  Using a template can help you format your resume to stand out from the crowd. 

Want more tips for finding the perfect job for you? See Land your dream job .

Need more help?

Want more options.

Explore subscription benefits, browse training courses, learn how to secure your device, and more.

Microsoft 365 subscription benefits

Microsoft 365 training

Microsoft security

Accessibility center

Communities help you ask and answer questions, give feedback, and hear from experts with rich knowledge.

Ask the Microsoft Community

Microsoft Tech Community

Windows Insiders

Microsoft 365 Insiders

Was this information helpful?

Thank you for your feedback.

The opinions expressed are solely those of Find My Profession. Click to see our Advertising Disclosure.

10 Best Recent Graduate Resume Writing Services (2024)

Find the best resume writing service for recent graduates. Compare cost and customer reviews of the top college student resume writing services.

2024 Winners: Add your badge to your marketing materials.

Although it may sound easy at first, writing a resume as a recent graduate is not always a simple task.

Some college graduates lack professional working experience. They must find something else to make their resume stand out.

Transferable skills and appropriate keywords should be included on your resume.

Using a standard template won’t get the job done against your competition.

Getting help from an expert resume writer will help you stand out.

This list of the top recent graduate resume writing services is here to help you with that.

Note: A recent graduate or entry-level resume is usually for professionals with less than 2 years of total experience. If you have more work experience than that, check with the services you are considering to see if you fall into a higher resume category.

Best Recent Grad Resume Writers

Best resume services for new graduates.

How We Choose Winners

Each of the recent graduate resume services below was reviewed by a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) taking into consideration the following:

The cost of the service compared to other recent graduate resume writers.

The speed at which the resume is completed.

Overall experience, awards, and certifications.

The design, style, and overall look of the resume.

Guarantees, number of edits, and reviews.

This list was hand-curated to serve all college graduates. Whether you are from marketing, sales, manufacturing, finance, or IT, this will serve all recent graduates.

Average Recent Graduate Resume Cost

Recent graduate resume writer reviews.

Find My Profession

Find My Profession is much more than a resume writing service. They are a global career services company whose work has been featured on sites like Forbes, Inc., Zety, Fast Company, and more.

With their team of elite resume writers who have experience in over 85 industries and professions, they can match you with a writer who understands your unique background and experience. Additionally, every resume comes with a one-on-one phone consultation with your writer.

Find My Profession has an impressive track record of successfully landing clients jobs at top companies such as Apple, Amazon, EA, Oracle, GM, Facebook, DoJ, Morgan Stanley, and Tesla.

Their 900+ 5-star reviews speak to their commitment to delivering high-quality service. They also offer a 60-day interview guarantee and ensure that every resume created is Applicant Tracking System (ATS) compatible and highly customized to meet your specific needs.

You will work one-on-one with an elite and certified resume writer based in the U.S. Find My Profession is committed to ensuring that every client is 100% satisfied with their resume, which is why they do not limit the number of edits or time spent working with your writer.

Find My Profession is a virtual company allowing them to provide services worldwide. While they do not have a physical office for in-person visits, they ensure direct communication with your writer through email and phone calls.

4.9/5 based on 521 Trustpilot reviews 4.9/5 based on 319 Sitejabber reviews 4.9/5 based on 151 Google reviews 5/5 based on 52 Facebook reviews

3 – 5 business days (can expedite to 2 business days)

(831) 888-0967 or [email protected]

Check out some of our 5-star reviews:

Alex on January 4, 2024

Resume & LinkedIn Profile

Belda Villalon on July 1, 2022

Michael on December 19, 2023

Exceptional resume

Michelle T on November 10, 2022

Professional Resume

Brigit on October 25, 2023

Highest quality of work

Beh on September 20, 2021

Professional. Experts…

Matt B on July 17, 2023

Excellent Experience

Chad B on May 2, 2022

Wonderful investment

ResumeZest is trusted by professionals from companies like Google, Amazon, Apple, Oracle, GE, Adobe, Uber, and Facebook. Their resume writing team has written resumes for more than 75 industries. A 60-day interview guarantee backs up every resume they write. Each resume is also ATS compliant and keyword-optimized.

ResumeZest is a very well-rounded company. They offer affordable pricing and quick turnaround times. You will work with a high-quality, certified writer and receive excellent customer service. They are also members of the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARW/CC).

ResumeZest is one of the newer companies on this list. While they do a great job and their writers have many years of experience, the company was only founded in 2020.

4.8/5 based on 175 Trustpilot reviews 4.8/5 based on 93 Google reviews 4.9/5 based on 91 Sitejabber reviews 5/5 based on 12 Facebook reviews 5/5 based on 4 Yelp reviews

(888) 530-4911 or [email protected]

Need Help With Your Job Search?

Did you know there are companies you can hire to help with your job search? Whether you need resume help or want someone to apply to jobs for you, we’ve reviewed the 20 best agencies to help you find a job.

Career Thinker

Career Thinker helps college graduates as well as experienced professionals nationally. It was founded by Thomas Powner in 2011. Thomas has a team of Certified Professional Resume Writers (CPRW) to write your resume. The team members also have expertise in human resources and staffing.

Career Thinker offers unlimited edits for 15 business days after you receive the draft. Also, you will be matched with a resume writer most experienced in your career path.

A few resume samples on the website would have been a nice touch to review their work. The turnaround time is on the longer side for new grad resumes.

4.8/5 based on 88 Google reviews 4.5/5 based on 15 Bark reviews

7 – 10 business days

(866) 369-9634 or [email protected]

ResumeWriters

ResumeWriters is the largest network of independently contracted resume writing professionals on the internet. Founded in 1999, ResumeWriters.com has a 99% satisfaction guarantee. Their large network of writers ensures that all levels of professionals, including recent graduates, get the writers they need.

One benefit of ResumeWriters is that they offer affordable resume services in a fast turnaround time. ResumeWriters also offers an interview guarantee which says if you do not get a job interview within 2-months, they’ll rewrite your resume for free.

One con with ResumeWriters is their lack of online reviews. There is very little information from verified customers sharing their experience with the service. Additionally, they have a few complaints posted on the Better Business Bureau.

3.8/5 based on 12 Google reviews 1/5 stars based on 1 BBB review

3 business days

(866) 356-2789 or [email protected]

Elan Advising

Elan Advising exists “for the making of happy, productive people.” If you are one of those happy, productive people, or are aspiring to become one, Elan Advising’s professional services will be up your alley. They specialize in career coaching and resume writing for recent grads and young professionals.

Elan Advising has glowing reviews based on their resume writing skills in particular. The company adopts a holistic view of your career, factoring it with life coaching services.

Elan Advising is more focused on coaching programs than one-off resume writing. So the site significantly lacks information about the resume service.

5/5 based on 8 Facebook reviews 5/5 based on 30 Yelp reviews

3 – 5 business days (can expedite to 24 hours)

(530) 750-9066 or [email protected]

The Lettersmith

The Lettersmith is run by Deborah Schuster who has 20+ years of resume writing experience. She holds the Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) designation. She also served on the PARWCC Certification Committee. She won a TORI (Toast of the Resume Industry) award for Best New Graduate Resume in 2021.

All clients work directly with Deborah. She has worked with all levels of job seekers from a wide range of industries. A diverse resume gallery on the website will give you peace of mind about your investment. Her resumes have been published in various books.

There’s no option to order the resume packages directly from the website. Some may call the pricing a bit steep. Also, the service doesn’t have many customer reviews online.

5/5 based on 7 Facebook reviews

7 – 10 days

(248) 509-0483

Is Your Resume Working Properly?

If you are having trouble landing interviews, it might be time to hire a professional resume writer. Check out our list of the 750+ best resume writers and start landing more interviews!

Job Search Prep

Job Search Prep (morphed from Resume Butterfly) is run by Jessica Smith. Jessica has 10+ years of experience in career coaching and resume writing. She was a Director of Career Services for a local college. She offers resumes for students, stay-at-home moms transitioning back into the workforce, as well as executives.

You can download a free career checkup e-booklet and job search workshop from Jessica’s website. She offers The Prep Club, which is an interviewing success course. She has helped 5000+ job seekers.

Jessica has hands-on experience and knows what hiring managers want, but she does not hold any industry certifications. The turnaround time for a resume is on the longer side of the industry average.

3.7/5 based on 11 Facebook reviews

10 – 14 days

[email protected]

Career Perfect

Career Perfect offers reliable resume writing services to all levels of professionals including recent graduates. The company has been in business for over 30 years with a customer satisfaction rate of 99.9%. They have experienced certified resume writers in the team. All of their writers are based in the United States.

There are many resume samples to view on the website, including two for recent grads. They will rewrite your resume for you if you don’t get more interviews in 60 days. They offer free career assessments on the website.

The resume writing process does not include a phone consultation with the resume writer. All but one of the reviews for the service are from 5 or more years ago.

4.8/5 based on 52 Facebook reviews 3.2/5 based on 49 Trustpilot reviews

4 – 5 business days (can expedite to 24 hours)

(877) 844-5724

We Build Resumes

We Build Resumes has over 20 years of resume writing experience. The company specializes in resumes for professionals in the construction, engineering and, environmental industries. They also offer resume writing for new graduates. Their recent grad resume writing service is fast and affordable.

The service offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee with all their resume packages. That means they will keep rewriting your resume as long as you are not satisfied.

The website doesn’t offer any details about the individual resume writers on the team. Also, the company doesn’t have any customer reviews online.

(916) 677-1428 or [email protected]

College2Career

College2Career is a career service run by Mollie Smith, the “Millenial Coach”. They cater to students and recent graduates who are learning the ropes and navigating the early stages of their careers. The customer reviews confirm that they equip young adults with the skills needed to succeed in the workplace.

This resume service is the most affordable on our list. Mollie has extensive experience working with new college graduates and writing resumes for them.

The resume service doesn’t include any interview guarantees. Also, there are no resume samples for you to review on the website.

5/5 based on 27 Google reviews 5/5 based on 6 Facebook reviews 5/5 based on 3 Yelp reviews

3 – 4 business days

(813) 434-7592

Previous Years Winners

Resume writing winners (2023).

Find My Profession, ResumeZest, Career Thinker, ResumeWriters, Elan Advising, The Lettersmith, Job Search Prep, Career Perfect, We Build Resumes, College2Career

Resume Writing Winners (2022)

Resume writing winners (2021).

ResumeZest, Career Thinker, ResumeWriters, Elan Advising, Job Search Prep (formerly Resume Butterfly), Career Perfect, The Resume Factory, We Build Resumes, Craft Resumes, College2Career

Recommended Career Advice For You

Tell Me About a Time You Went Above and Beyond Expectations at Work

How to Negotiate A Salary: Tips, Email Samples & More

Monster.com Resume Service Review [Cost + Customer Reviews]

Pay Your Deposit

Have you been admitted and need to lock in your decision? Click the link below to pay your deposit now!

Deposit Today

Writing a Recent Graduate Resume

Oct 12, 2020

How to Write a Resume as a Recent Graduate

Ask a college graduate, and he or she will likely say the same thing: college flies by in the blink of an eye. Before one knows it, it is time to enter the workforce as a recent graduate. While college prepares students with the necessary knowledge to begin their careers, they likely do not have an abundance of work experience. For this reason alone, a resume is a vital tool for graduates to have prepared to effectively market themselves, their education and the knowledge they acquired over the past few years. If you are wondering how to find a job after college , a resume is a great first step.

What is a resume?

A resume is a document that ultimately presents a statement of who someone is and what that person can add to the professional world. It summarizes one's abilities and accomplishments and serves as an outline of one's education, relevant experience and soft or technical skills. A resume serves as evidence of a person's qualifications for the job position desired, and lastly, as a crucial opportunity to stand out from other applicants.

To emphasize the power of a compelling entry level resume, Hale Ekinci​ , an associate professor of art and design at North Central College, provides a tip for her students. She states, "Remember, the resume gets you the interview, and the interview gets you the job!"

With the power to impact the next steps in one's career, in addition to a recent graduate cover letter , it is essential to learn how to write a resume for recent college graduates that will stand out from the rest. A compelling resume is not something produced in an hour or even in one day. It is one where a person makes time to carefully think through the best way to convey how their abilities and skills are advantageous to employers, their field, and the specific job opening.

However, no two resumes should be precisely alike. A factor that plays a massive role in creating an entry level resume is what a graduate majored in during college, and the field of work they aspire to enter in their career. These two factors not only shape the content included in a resume but the design and organization of it as well.

Recent Graduate Resume Examples for a Business Major

It pays for graduates to tailor their experience and skills around the job position they are interested in landing for any professional resume. Prospective employers can better visualize what each candidate can do in the role.

According to ​Indeed.com ​, there are seven key sections to include when creating a resume as a recent business graduate:

• Choose a preferred resume template or format.
• Include the individual's (your) name and contact information, including a personal website , if possible.
• List critical soft and hard technical skills to show employers key strengths.
• Create a work experience section. This section may include a relevant internship(s) or freelance work.
• Include an education section listing your college and major. Feel free to highlight any academic accomplishments here, such as scholarships or awards.
• Add an extracurricular activities section. Be sure to list any leadership roles.
• Write a resume summary or resume objective. Here, graduates can write their career goals, relevant experience, achievements, and what gives them a competitive edge. It should be about two to three sentences long.

For a recent college graduate, especially in the business field, employers understand the section of professional experience is likely to be shorter in terms of length. Therefore, focusing on other components, such as academic accomplishments, relevant coursework or any leadership positions held on campus, is recommended. Describing any challenging classes or responsibilities relating to a candidate's career goals shows prospective employers he or she has ambition, leadership and multitasking skills. Further, noting classes or experiences that relate to the skills listed in the job description, helps the hiring manager see why you'd be a great fit.

In addition to tailoring the resume content to grab the hiring manager’s attention, a recent college grad graduate should also use action verbs and quantify success when possible. When describing previous job experience or internship responsibilities, positive verbs such as “organized” or “led” tend to be more noticeable. Likewise, a student who can quantify success, whether from a class project or college student organization can showcase their value more concretely.

Recent Graduate Resume Examples for a STEM Major

Writing a resume for a role in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) can feel daunting, especially for a recent graduate who may be less qualified. However, when it comes to building a recent graduate resume, opportunities to showcase skills, and why you are perfect for the job opening are abundant. For instance, recent college grads can showcase anything from research positions and publications to shadowing and certifications in addition to their education and relevant coursework.

As a new graduate, education is vital to a resume and is located towards the top. The degree graduates received and the classes they took can impact whether they are qualified for the role. In this section, it is common for graduates also to include any minors and their graduation year. It is also an excellent opportunity to highlight a competitive GPA.

Technical Skills

In addition to a graduate's education, the technical skills they have are also crucial to add. Employers will most likely scan this section to make sure it matches the skills needed to perform the role well. Be sure to choose wisely when listing these skills. There is always the chance employers will question the extent of the level of knowledge and expertise.

Throughout college, graduates have likely accumulated valuable experiences. Whether these experiences are from research or class projects, adding them will enrich a recent college graduate resume even more. However, it is essential to note that these should be kept short and straight to the point to avoid a resume becoming too long.

Recent Graduate Resume Examples for a Creative Major

When it comes to making a college graduate resume for a creative major, the design is just as important as the content included. A professional resume is not only an opportunity for graduates to display their accomplishments and skills in words, but to showcase them through art and design as well.

According to ​ Resume Now ​, several key sections are present in a resume for a creative major. Those sections include:

• Name and Contact Information
• Honors and Awards/Grants
• Bibliography
• Exhibitions
• Collections
• Professional Affiliations
• Related Work Experience/Professional Experience

While some sections on this list may seem intimidating, it is essential to remember these can translate back to college coursework, connections, and experiences. For instance, in the honors and awards/grants section, graduates can list a competition or scholarship they have won. Similarly, the bibliography section could include the name of an on-campus magazine or newspaper that has published a graduate's work. Related work experience can be an on-campus position held. With thinking like this, filling out these key sections is less intimidating than it seems.

In addition to learning the outline of a resume, there are important “dos and don'ts” to keep in mind for creative majors. Resumes should ultimately serve as an example of graduates' talent, as well as their personality. Using a type style that achieves this is an excellent route to take, as long as it is clear to see and easy to read.

Providing more creative resume “dos” is Chicago-based artist, North Central College's chairperson of the art and design department, and associate professor of art ​ Christine Rabenold​ . "I usually recommend for their resume that you want it to be easy to read, organized, and relevant to your target audience. Also, have people proofread it," Rabenold stated.

In terms of resume “don'ts”, graduates should avoid hard to read fonts, unclear graphics and illustrations, as well as adding too much color. These can ultimately take away from the effectiveness of the resume.

In addition to a resume, other materials such as a portfolio are just as necessary. "In terms of the portfolio, that is where your best work should be on view and (to) really consider how you curate the flow of the images," Rabenold stated. "Do not include everything you have ever made. Be selective and be aware of your target audience. I recommend hiring a photographer or (trade skills) with a friend because future acceptances, sales and job commissions can be based on your portfolio," Rabenold added.

To ensure all materials for a job role are in order, graduates can review resume or portfolios samples from a mentor or a peer. These serve as excellent reference points to develop and advance resume writing and design skills. With the right resources and knowledge, a recent college graduate can design and create a resume that stands out from the rest.

Kara Kots is the social media specialist at North Central College, where she contributes her writing, content and communication skills.

More North Central News & Stories

Resume Summaries for Fresh Graduates with Examples

A resume summary is a short description at the top of your resume that briefly describes your experience, skills and why you’re an ideal candidate for a job. Using a resume summary can help recruiters decide whether they want to give your resume more attention or not. In this article, you can review various examples of resume summaries for recent graduates with explanations for each sample.

Resume summary examples for recent graduates

Here are some examples of resume summaries for recent graduates that you can use when writing own resume:

Retail Associate

Example:  ‘Aspiring Retail Associate with strong interpersonal and communication skills. Goal-oriented individual with a strong understanding of how to treat customers. Participated in skills development workshops at Boston College.’

This example begins with a statement of your career goals backed with soft skills needed for the job. As a recent graduate, it can help to focus on what you can offer to the recruiter rather than your specific experience.

Customer Service Representative

Example: ‘A former part-time shop attendant with a basic understanding of customer service looking for an opportunity in sales. Hard-working, proactive individual with strong problem-solving and communication skills and the ability to learn new concepts fast.’

When writing a resume summary as a new graduate applying to a Customer Service Representative position, focus on soft skills that are important for the job. Hiring managers in the customer service industry often focus more on a candidate’s experience and skills related to the job rather than the educational background. Start the resume summary by mentioning previous work experience relevant to customer service before describing your soft skills. 

Sales Assistant

Example: ‘Recent graduate with a degree in business administration and a GPA of 3.5 looking for a position as a Sales Assistant. Reliable communication skills, both oral and written, with a basic understanding of sales and marketing. Capable of working in a fast-paced and demanding environment.’

Highlighting your achievements relevant to the job no matter how small they might be can be very useful in giving your resume an appeal to recruiters. Emphasizing GPA, academic training and responsibilities in school can give an impression of how responsible you are with fulfilling tasks. Soft skills necessary for the job are also important to include in your resume summary.

Nursing Assistant

Example: ‘Nursing student with a passion for helping people looking for a position as a Nursing Assistant. Demonstrated strong communication and leadership skills through volunteering with Red Cross International.’

This example is brief but informs the hiring manager about the individual’s background by highlighting skills and interests. It also shows that this is the right career path for the applicant because the interests and skills align well with the industry.

Gym Instructor

Example: ‘Health Science student with a major in Fitness and Nutrition. Highly motivated to work as a fitness instructor to demonstrate communication, time management and problem-solving skills. Physically fit to serve as a role model to new clients.’

If you have no experience working in the field, it is recommended that you focus on your coursework to give recruiters an idea of your educational background. You can also add important skills and characteristics that can show recruiters what you can contribute to the position and why you are an ideal candidate. 

Medical Scribe

Example: ‘Recent graduate with technical knowledge in computing, data entry, communication software and databases. Interned as a clinic assistant at St. Luke’s Medical Center. Self-motivated, eager to learn, can work in a fast-paced environment and effectively communicate with other people.’

This resume summary for a Medical Scribe started by emphasizing technical skills fitting for an ideal candidate. It also indicated an internship experience which most recruiters prefer from fresh graduate applicants, and soft skills ideal to perform the tasks.

Information Technology (IT)

Example: ‘IT graduate major in computer programing with a background in Java application, HTML, CSS, Python, Tomcat, MySQL and Oracle database. Experience working in an IT company as software support as part of on-the-job training. Highly analytical, motivated and skilled at solving programming problems. Can work well both independently and in a team.’

When making a resume summary for the IT industry, you have to be specific with your skills. You need to emphasize which area you are most capable in to make sure that recruiters know that you are qualified for the job. Both technical and soft skills are important in the IT industry, so it is ideal to highlight them first in your resume.

Example: ‘Recent graduate with a degree in finance and knowledge of data management and cost and performance analysis. Skilled in identifying and resolving wash sales and share quantity discrepancies. Knowledge in virtual portfolio management, stock valuations, financial statement analysis and business management. Excellent problem-solving skills and experienced with using the latest financial software.’

A powerful resume summary understands the importance of providing specific information to readers. It should be able to cover a wide range of skills and background for the job and include enough information to highlight the strongest points of your resume to capture the attention of hiring managers.

Example: ‘Recent college graduate with an internship at Wall Street Financial Group. Seeking an entry-level accounting position to demonstrate accounting skills and knowledge. Highly competent, hardworking and detail-oriented with the capacity to go beyond what is expected to achieve higher career goals.’

This is an example of a resume summary that is brief but shares enough detail to encourage the hiring manager to read the resume more. In this example, the academic background is not mentioned. Instead, it focuses more on skills, experience and goals.

Primary Teacher

Example: ‘A recent graduate with a degree in primary education and a teaching certification, capable of teaching math to children between the ages of seven and 12 years old. Highly adept at various teaching techniques and ensures quality teaching by following education board standards, while making the learning environment fun and conducive to learning.’

This is an ideal resume summary for applicants applying to a teaching position because it highlights teaching skills and academic background. In your summary, you should mention specific credentials, such as the teaching certification, and show positive and nurturing characteristics, as well as other soft skills, to assure the recruiter that you work well with children.

Math Teacher 

Example: ‘A highly organized Math Teacher with proven skills in teaching through teacher certification, academic awards and on-the-job training as a teacher’s assistant in a private school. Ability to work in a team, solve problems professionally and create a nurturing environment. Skilled at communicating complex ideas in a simple but entertaining manner. Looking for an opportunity to share my knowledge and skills in a school that offers career progression.’

This resume summary is very informative about the applicant’s background. It highlights academic achievements and skills that are ideal for a teaching position. It also sounds professional while highlighting a career-driven goal.

Example: ‘Graduate with a degree in office administration experienced in handling calls and organizing schedules. Possesses strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and takes a practical approach in handling different tasks. Looking for a position as a Secretary in a fast-paced environment.’

Recent graduates applying for secretarial jobs whether entry-level or not, should focus on highlighting their specific skills related to the role. Showing the capacity to fulfill the job is ideal to observe in resume summaries, especially that a secretarial job requires strong organization and communication skills aside from having a good credential. It is also advisable to include how an applicant deals with the day-to-day tasks of a Secretary. 

Receptionist

Example: ‘Highly-skilled hospitality management graduate with various on-the-job training in a hotel, restaurant and office setting. Friendly and works well with customer concerns and has strong interpersonal and communication skills. Looking for a position as a Receptionist in the hospitality industry.’

Ideally, a resume summary for a Receptionist role highlights your educational background, experience in the industry (if available) and most importantly, the soft skills. It is highly recommended to indicate a customer-friendly and inviting personality in your resume summary.

Logistics Clerk

Example: ‘Recent graduate with strong attention to detail and organization skills looking for an entry-level job as a Logistics Clerk to build a career in the logistics industry. Can handle large amounts of information, multitask, answer calls and perform data entry jobs.’

While highlighting experience is ideal, resume summary for logistics focuses more on the skills required to function on the job. It would also help to express the kind of personality fitting for the job as well as the career goals.

Human Resources Assistant

Example: ‘Goal-oriented Human Resources recent graduate with experience as a Human Resources intern in an outsourcing company to assist in training and skill development. Highly adept in developing training programs and has excellent oral and written communication skills.’

This resume summary for an HR Assistant focuses mainly on academic background, work experience and specific skills gained from previous first-hand experience in the field. This is one way to emphasize how prepared you are for the job which can leave a good impression on recruiters. 

Related: Writing a Resume Summary (With Examples)

How to write an MBA resume and make sure it stands out in the stack

Applying to business school, or an MBA program, can be nerve-racking. You’ll need to lasso together transcripts and test scores, fill out an application, and likely ace an interview—but perhaps the most critical piece of it all is an MBA resume. This important document will list out many of the same elements as a traditional resume, such as your educational background and work experience. 

But an MBA resume also has a different primary function than the typical resume you might submit to try and land a job: It’s designed to land you a spot in an MBA program. If writing an MBA resume feels intimidating, knowing what to put on it, and some other framing tactics, may help calm your nerves.

UNC Kenan-Flagler’s top-ranked online MBA

Mba resume vs. a job resume  .

As noted, an MBA resume should feel familiar to many prospective business school students. 

“An MBA resume is very similar to a job resume,” says Kaneisha Grayson, the founder and CEO of The Art of Applying , an MBA admissions consultancy. She adds that both types of resumes will, or should, comprise a single page, incorporate clear, professional formatting, and lay out an applicant’s educational and career accomplishments. 

“I’d say one difference between the two is that I advise our clients to put their education at the top—whereas with a job resume, you’d see education at the bottom,” Grayson says. She recommends this variation because an MBA resume’s specific aim of landing an applicant at an educational institution. 

So, in that sense, there may not be a whole lot of differences between an MBA resume and a job resume, but there will be some additional focus on specific aspects of your background, all in an effort to win over an MBA program’s selection or admissions committee. 

How to write an MBA resume

Again, writing an MBA resume shouldn’t differ a whole lot from writing a traditional resume, but you’ll want to try and keep your end goal in mind, which is landing a spot in an MBA program. As you write your MBA resume, keeping that goal in mind should prove helpful, because it can help you parse out the information you’ll want to include, and the things you won’t.

“An MBA resume is very specialized toward the application cycle,” says Ellin Lolis, President and Founder of Ellin Lolis MBA Consulting . So, again, keep the end goal in mind. “Your education section is going to be important,” Lolis says, “but we mostly want to see your career focus.”

As for the nuts and bolts of writing an MBA resume? Keep it simple by deciding what to rope in, what to leave out, and how to structure it all so that it’s easy to read. 

What to include in your MBA resume

The main elements that your MBA resume should include are an education section, a job experience or professional experience section, and a portion that details a bit more about you, personally, such as your hobbies and interests. 

You can leave out photographs, information related to your high school, and even most of your contact information—that’ll be included on your program application, the experts say. 

Again, do your best to keep what you include to one page. The only time you could probably get a pass for using more than one page is if you have extensive professional experience, and are applying to an executive MBA program. A good rule of thumb? “When you have more than seven years of full-time, post-college work experience,” says Grayson. 

How to structure an MBA resume

As for structuring an MBA resume, do your best to contain most elements to the aforementioned sections: Education, professional background and experience, and a section dedicated to your personal hobbies, interests, skills and certifications, and community service work.

List the schools you attended and the degrees you earned, perhaps with any relevant coursework and GPAs in the education section. Your professional section may differ depending on your specific experiences and industries you’ve worked in, but try to frame it as a sort of professional “story,” which can showcase how an MBA can help you take the next step.

Professional background

“Generally speaking, the MBA is not a purely academic degree, as a majority of people are going to earn one to get a better job,” says Lolis. “They’re doing it to boost their career—and at that point, the most relevant thing is your recent job and your professional track record,” she says.

Get into the weeds, too, about your accomplishments. “Don’t just reiterate your job responsibilities,” says Grayson. “Communicate the results of your efforts. Quantifying the results is much more significant and meaningful—describe the impact,” she says.

Hobbies, interests, and more

As for the more personal portion? “One of the main things that’s different from a job resume is that they want you to share some of your hobbies and interests,” Lolis says. “Be very specific,” adds Grayson, “because 90% of people will list ‘travel’ as a hobby. “But that’s not interesting—maybe something like ‘slow traveling to find the best street food.’ That’s interesting.” This, she says, can help spark a conversation, or help your resume stand out from the pile.

In addition to specific hobbies or interests, you might include, add volunteer or community work as well, and perhaps relevant technical or language skills. Again, this may help tip the scales in your favor by showing you have specific know-how related to a given industry or task. Any applicable awards you’ve earned may be good to include, too, as they showcase that you’re capable of excelling in a given area.

Should you customize your resume for each business school?

Experts generally don’t recommend changing up your MBA resume when applying to different schools. Instead, look for specific instructions relayed by the school, if there are any, and make any needed changes accordingly. So, unless you have a really compelling reason, you can probably use the same resume for a number of applications.

Also, don’t go overboard in terms of design to make your resume stand out. “Just stick to traditional formatting,” says Lolis, since that’s what most admissions teams are used to seeing, and are generally looking for. Let the contents of the resume speak for you—not the design.

Where to go if you need help  

For many prospective MBA students, piecing together a resume shouldn’t be terribly difficult, given that it’s mostly the same process as writing a traditional resume. However, if you need help, you can reach out to consultants, or even check out some of the resources schools make available to help you along the process. 

• Consultants : There are many MBA consultancies out there, including the firms that Lolis and Grayson founded. They can help create, review, and critique an MBA resume and get it into shape. 
• Examples and templates : Some schools even make templates available , and example resumes to help students create their own. 

The takeaway  

In all, you should write an MBA resume in the same way you’d write a traditional resume, with some slight variations. The resume should focus on your professional background and previous education, while also detailing some of your personal interests, too. Stick to classic resume formatting as well, and keep it to one page, if possible.

It’s also important, experts say, to use some basic formatting and style—use 11 or 12-point font, a normal font style (Arial, Times New Roman, etc.), and overall, keep it professional. And remember: don’t go overboard trying to score style points with the resume’s design or other elements.

Harvard Business Analytics Program

Mba rankings.

• Best Online MBA Programs for 2024
• Best Online Master’s in Accounting Programs for 2024
• Best MBA Programs for 2024
• Best Executive MBA Programs for 2024
• Best Part-Time MBA Programs for 2024
• 25 Most Affordable Online MBAs for 2024
• Best Online Master’s in Business Analytics Programs for 2024

Information technology & data rankings

• Best Online Master’s in Data Science Programs for 2024
• Most Affordable Master’s in Data Science for 2024
• Best Master’s in Cybersecurity Degrees for 2024
• Best Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Degrees for 2024
• Best Online Master’s in Computer Science Degrees for 2024
• Best Master’s in Data Science Programs for 2024
• Most Affordable Online Master’s in Data Science Programs for 2024
• Most Affordable Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Degrees for 2024

Health rankings

• Best Online MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs for 2024
• Accredited Online Master’s of Social Work (MSW) Programs for 2024
• Best Online Master’s in Nursing (MSN) Programs for 2024
• Best Online Master’s in Public Health (MPH) Programs for 2024
• Most Affordable Online MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs for 2024
• Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs for 2024

Leadership rankings

• Best Online Doctorate in Education (EdD) Programs for 2024
• Most Affordable Online Doctorate in Education (EdD) Programs for 2024
• Coding Bootcamps in New York for 2024
• Best Data Science and Analytics Bootcamps for 2024
• Best Cybersecurity Bootcamps for 2024
• Best UX/UI bootcamps for 2024

Boarding schools

• World’s Leading Boarding Schools for 2024
• Top Boarding School Advisors for 2024