how to write a resume for recent college graduate

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3 Recent College Graduate Resume Examples for 2024

Recent College Graduate Resume

Elegant recent college graduate resume, clean recent college graduate resume.

• Recent College Graduate 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 to turn that into your dream role! Check out our three recent college graduate resume templates and expert guidance.

or download as PDF

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.

The analyses and opinions presented on Career Cloud are our own. We may receive commissions from purchases made after visiting links within our content.

How To Create The Perfect Resume As A Recent College Grad

Table Of Contents

7 must-have elements for a recent graduate resume, 1. relevant job skills, 2. transferable skills, 3. a well-written, non-fluffy summary or objective, 4. relevant keywords, 5. extracurriculars and honors, 6. a professional-sounding email, 7. a customized link to your linkedin profile, what resume format is best for a recent college grad , what to avoid when writing a recent grad resume, 1. mentioning high school, 2. avoid listing your college courses, 3. don’t include references, resume example for a recent college grad, tips for writing a recent grad resume, 1. sell your strengths, 2. include company descriptions, 3. add bullet points for the most important information, 4. lead with “action” verbs, 5. include your gpa (but only if it’s a selling point), bottom line.

Written By: Michael Gardon | Edited By: Mike Jelinek

You’ve been working your entire life so you can add a college degree to your resume. Now, you’ve achieved your goal and are part of the 37% of Americans who can list a four-year degree under the “Education” section of their CV.

But how do you make your resume stand out from the competition? As a college grad, you have the educational credentials–but you may lack the experience that other candidates have. To get job interviews and offers, you’ll need to show the hiring manager that you have the skills, abilities, and aptitudes needed to solve their organization’s problems.

Writing the perfect resume doesn’t have to be stressful. Our team recently reviewed the best resume-writing services . If resume writing isn’t your strength, let a pro handle it! Once your resume is ready to go, start your job search on ZipRecruiter! ZipRecruiter is free and you can apply for jobs with a single click!

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Which skills are most essential to the job? The company will typically make this easy for you by including the required skills in the job description section of the listing. Look for hard skills, like software packages and programming languages, and soft skills , like communication and leadership. Highlight these in your resumes, cover letters, and job interviews to show that you’re qualified for the role.

Don’t sell yourself short if you don’t have on-the-job experience with a given skill. Remember that the point is to show the employer what you can do, not just what you have done.

“One of my top tips for new grads is to highlight the transferable skills that you have earned at a job or experience, not just your responsibilities,” says Kelli Richards, an academic advisor and career counseling instructor at the University of Madison-Wisconsin, in an interview with CareerCloud. “Instead of saying, ‘responsible for serving food to customers,’ highlight the skills you earned by saying, ‘communicate with customers and provide excellent customer service by being attentive and responsive.’”

Most resumes begin with either an objective or a summary statement. These sections perform the same general function. They tell the hiring manager what you can do and give a brief sense of how you can do it.

The difference between an objective and a summary is perspective. While objectives reveal your goals, summaries show how you have achieved your previous employers’ goals. Objectives are short–a line or two at most. Most state the position the candidate is applying for and give a sense of their larger career goals. Summaries are several lines long, but still tightly focused on the essentials. If you have related experience, a summary can help you highlight that.

Summary statements are usually meant for people with multiple years of experience, but every little bit helps in the case of entry-level work. Even for a first job, positions usually say they require 1-2 years of experience in the job description. If possible, you should use quantifiable metrics. Think of these few sentences as your elevator pitch to the hiring manager; highlighting your strengths, accomplishments, and skills.

Example: Objective vs. Summary

Traditional objective statement: “To obtain a position in inside sales”

Summary statement: “Inside Sales Representative with 1 year of experience working with customer accounts, prospecting new business, and continually meeting sales quotas. Increased new signups by 40% and retained 90% of existing clients.”

Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to sort candidates and make selections for interviews. To make sure that your resume makes the cut, study the job description and match your skills and experience to their requirements.

You can include keywords in the objective or summary statement, skills and experience sections, and in your cover letter. Use as many keywords as possible without looking like you're stuffing your resume full of them to get selected. Both the hiring managers and ATS will spot this quickly.

If you’re stuck, you can use synonyms for the keywords that you spot on in the job description. If you have room, you can add a core skills section that lists all of your skills that match the keywords. Place this section right after the summary or objective statement.

Always customize your keywords–and your resume as a whole. Don’t apply to two different positions with the same CV.

This is a great way to differentiate yourself from other candidates, as well as showing where your interests lie. Highlight any honors or accolades you received, and include any competitions you participated in, as well. Even if you didn’t place, it is still worth mentioning that you were involved.

If you don’t already have an email that includes your name, you should create one. It’s OK to add a little something about the profession you’re trying to procure, e.g. [email protected] , but generally speaking, the more straightforward your email is, the better: [email protected] .

The reason you want to use a professional email address is that you want to come off sounding professional as opposed to, say, your childhood email that may have something like “wizard” or “princess” in it. We know it may be tough to part ways with your email, but just know that it will give you a better chance of getting selected for an interview.

This is important because it can boost your credibility by showing that you know your way around technology. Some applicants don’t include a LinkedIn profile link, and those that do often have a link that isn’t customized. You can customize your LinkedIn profile in three steps to look more professional on your resume.

Step 1: Log into your LinkedIn account and click the “Me” icon at the top of the page.

Step 2: Click “Edit public profile & URL.”

Join The Break Community

Step 3: Create your custom LinkedIn URL

There are three main types of resume formats : chronological, functional, and combination. A chronological resume focuses on your work experience, listing your jobs in reverse chronological order with the most recent position first. For obvious reasons, this resume type will not be your best choice if you’re a recent grad with little related work experience.

Either a functional resume, which focuses on your skills, or a combination resume, which highlights both skills and work experience, is a better choice. Both allow you to focus the hiring manager’s attention on your skill set, not your limited experience.

When your resume is ready, you can find jobs by checking out the best job posting sites .

If you went to college, it can be assumed that you graduated from high school, thus there is no reason to list it here. The only exception is if you’re applying for a job in your hometown. Then, it might be worth it to mention your high school experience on the chance that the hiring manager is also an alum.

There is so much more you can add to your resume than your course schedule. If the class isn’t directly related to the job, don’t include it.

According to a survey by SHRM , 87% of employers do reference checks as part of the hiring process. Though references are important and needed, wait to provide them until your potential employer asks for them. Save valuable space and leave them off your resume.

Related: How To List References On Your Resume

Here’s an example of a perfect resume for a recent college grad. Note what’s included (summary, keywords, bullet points) and what’s left out (high school experience, references).

Highlight your strengths–they’re likely to be what resonates most with the hiring manager as they comb through your resume. Include any experience that’s related to the position including work experience, volunteering, and internships.

If you don’t have any relevant experience, what did you do inside the classroom that was unique or special? Demonstrate your people skills and what makes you an excellent member of a team.

Including company descriptions gives you a chance to explain what you did at the organization. It’s also an opportunity to use keywords that are relevant to the role you’re targeting.

Here is an example of what a company description may look like.

Credit: ZipJob

This is how you will list your:

Experiences (worked at)

• What did you do, what did you learn, what did you improve on?

Accomplishments (won this)

• What were you awarded or recognized for?

Skills (am good at this)

• (see skills section below)

This is a good place to reassert the importance of listing quantifiable results in past work experiences if you have had any.

Here is an example of what an entry-level resume with bullet points looks like.

Led, coordinated, created, managed, improved, and developed–these are all verbs you can use when describing your roles in past jobs and experiences that resulted in positive change for whatever company, club, or organization. Remember, hiring managers read a lot of resumes, and they’re used to seeing the most common verbs listed above. Here is a list of 207 action verbs you can use if you’re looking for something a little outside of the box.

According to the most recent data by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, 67% of companies reported that they screen candidates based on GPA. More recently, organizations have shifted their focus to other factors, like internships and extracurricular activities.

As a recent college graduate, it is ok to put your GPA on your resume, but after two or three years in the workforce, you should update your resume and take it off. Anything above a 3.5 is impressive and could separate you from other candidates if everything is equal.

If you don’t feel as though your GPA is high enough to put on your resume, make up for it with other accomplishments or areas where you were successful.

If you follow the above guidelines and approach your job search with discipline, you will eventually get called in for an interview. It’s all about understanding your value–and how to demonstrate it to hiring managers.

Once your resume is ready to go, start your job search on ZipRecruiter !

Michael Gardon

Mike is our Founder, career coach, and resident expert on all things resume, hiring and work-life. He is author of The Break newsletter and host of The Break Podcast on Careercloud. He has seen everything from being hired (and fired) to hiring and managing hundreds of people over his career. Mike has also successfully navigated many career pivots. He is a former derivatives trader turned corporate consultant turned entrepreneur who also holds a Bachelors' Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and an MBA from DePaul University in Chicago. Mike is often interviewed and quoted on career topics in major publications such as Business Insider, Forbes, USA Today, Yahoo Finance and Fox News. Mike resides in the beautiful midwest where he built a life around his family. Connect with Mike to talk purpose, career change, entrepreneurship and side hustles like Quotebook , which he built with his kids!

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• 14 Reasons This is a Perfect...

14 Reasons This is a Perfect Recent College Grad Resume Example

6 min read · Updated on October 31, 2022

If you're unsure where to start or what to include in your entry-level college grad resume, we're here to help!

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

Also, check out a recent college graduate resume example below to help craft the perfect resume for your job search.

Below are 14 reasons why this is an excellent resume for a recent college graduate.

1. He used a professional-looking 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 college-grad 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 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 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.

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.

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 I wrote for Business Insider.

Need help with your post-grad resume? Learn more about our professional resume-writing services to get a resume like the one above. 

Recommended Reading:

• Bad Resume Advice You Should Completely Ignore
• 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

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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.

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Recent Grads: How to Write a Great Resume [+ Samples]

18 tips for a great recent graduate resume. New grads can easily create a resume with these dos and don'ts!

Writing your first resume for a “real” job is exciting!

There are some common mistakes you will want to avoid on your recent graduate resume.

There are also things that make your resume different than resumes for seasoned professionals.

We will show you how to easily write a resume for new college graduate jobs.

1. Use a Professional Email Address

Many recent grads often have funny or cute (or worse!) email addresses that they created years ago.

It can be a fatal mistake to use that address on your recent college graduate resume.

Your email address is one of the few details at the very top of your resume and hotchick2000 is not the first impression you want to make!

Stay away from services that can be viewed as outdated (ie: aol or yahoo).

Leave the year of your birth or graduation year off your address as well.

Create a separate professional email address for your job search correspondence. 

Having a dedicated email account also keeps all of your job-related emails together and separate from your personal inbox. 

2. Use a Customized LinkedIn URL

Just like your email address, your LinkedIn profile URL is also important.

If your LinkedIn URL is brian-smith-573ac364, it looks sloppy and shows a lack of attention to detail.

It takes 2 minutes to customize your LinkedIn URL.

You will find the option to edit your URL in the top right corner of your LinkedIn profile. 

If all variations of your first and last name are already taken, try adding your middle initial, middle name, and/or a single number at the end.

3. Use a Professional Summary

Showing what you are capable of doing is more effective than telling what you want to accomplish in your new job (objective statement).

Summarize your best assets related to the job you are applying for.

Instead of writing a resume objective, write a professional summary . 

Don’t use objective-type sentences or “I” sentences like this one:

I have hands-on experience through various projects and college coursework.

Instead, use professional statements like this one:

Equipped with a foundation of engineering and operational skill sets, as well as proficiency in improving processes, protocols, project execution, and efficiency.

(Related: Resume Summary: How To Write [+Examples] )

4. Optimize Your Skills Section

The skills section on your resume is a crucial element, especially as a new grad without a lot of work experience. 

If you don’t have a good amount of work experience, the skills you have will matter to the hiring manager. 

You need to highlight your skills that are relevant to the job you’re applying for.  

Include your relevant skills using the keywords and requirements from the job description.

If the first requirement in the job posting you are applying for is:

Ability to manage projects from conception to final commissioning.

Then your skills section should include terms like project management, project planning, full project life cycle management, scheduling, budgeting, risk management, etc. depending on the job.

(Related: Most Important Skills For a Resume )

5. Include Relevant Technical Skills

Do not ignore the technical skills mentioned in the job description. 

Not mentioning a technical skill can mean getting eliminated by the Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). 

You can also list technical skills that are needed for the job but have not been mentioned in the job post.

However, be careful to stick to only relevant skills. The hiring manager won’t care about your Python skills if you’re applying for an accounting job.

If you are not confident enough in a skill mentioned in the job description, consider taking an online course to advance your knowledge of that skill. 

6. Know Your Strengths

Knowing what makes you great for your target position and playing that up is crucial in a competitive job market.

From the overall resume structure to the details included in all the sections, your key selling points should take center stage on your resume. 

For example, if you have prior experience closely matching the job you are applying for, put your professional experience right after the summary section.

On the other hand, if your work experiences are irrelevant, you’ll want to draw more attention to your transferable skills and education.

Organize the individual sections keeping this strategic approach or prioritization in mind.

(Related: The 5 Best Resume Formats [Tips & Samples] )

7. Optimize Your Education Section

Be thorough in the education section of your resume for recent college graduate jobs.

If you lack professional experience, you can beef up this section of your resume to show relevant school experience.

Add coursework that is directly related to the job you are applying for.

You can also mention your relevant academic achievements, awards, honors, scholarships, projects, and extra-curriculars.

8. Explain Your Experience

As a new grad, you may be apprehensive about including your part-time gigs, summer positions, freelance jobs, volunteering, and internships.

You shouldn’t be!

If you don’t have enough professional working experience, include your non-traditional working experience just like any other experienced professional would do.

But be mindful of relevance. If a summer gig was 2 months long and doesn’t add value, you might not include it.

Include your experience that is the most relevant to the job.

Explain your experience and on-the-job accomplishments in such a way that it is precise, professional, and closely related to your target position.

Instead of calling the section Professional Experience , you could call it Relevant Experience, or [Industry Name] Experience or Background .

Avoid long and boring paragraphs that just list your responsibilities like a job description.

Use bullet points to highlight your accomplishments. Quantify your achievements whenever you can.

9. Be ATS-Friendly

Companies are increasingly using Applicant Tracking System (ATS) software. 

The influx of online resumes for job postings has created a need for a system to organize it all for employers.

The 2 things you need to know about ATS is that your resume needs to include keywords and be formatted correctly.

ATS collect data from applicants and screen for keywords related to the job posting.

So, using appropriate keywords on your resume can determine your fate.

ATS-optimization means using keywords from the job description in your professional summary, skills, education, and professional experience sections.

The other side of ATS is that your resume needs to be read easily by the ATS so your information is sorted correctly.

Avoid tables, charts, graphics, and header and footer details.

(Related: How to Make a Resume That Gets Past the Robot [ATS Resume] )

10. Use a Professional Font

Everything about your resume should be professional, including the font choice and the font size. 

Avoid fancy fonts like Comic Sans. Avoid overused fonts like Ariel and Times New Roman as well.

The best fonts for recent college grad resumes are Cambria, Georgia, Calibri, and similar fonts.  

(Related: Best Resume Fonts [+ Size, Color, Fonts to Avoid] )

11. Customize Your Resume for Each Job

This is a mistake that even seasoned professionals often make – submitting the same generic resume for all the positions they apply for.

Why? Simply because it takes extra time and planning to do.

A targeted resume significantly increases your chances of getting an interview.

To be prepared, keep a master resume on hand for your targeted industry.

Then, when you apply for a new job, customize and tailor a new version of your resume to best match the target position and job description.

Update things like your resume title, your skills, and accomplishments according to the job posting.

(Related:  How To Write A Targeted Resume [+ Examples] )

12. Don’t Include Personal Information

On a resume, there’s no place for your personal information.

Do not include anything relating to your personal life, such as a photo, hobbies, marital status, religion, age, sex, nationality, and other details. 

Personal information has nothing to do with your ability to do the job.

However, in certain non-US countries, you may be required to use a curriculum vitae (CV) that includes personal information.

13. Don’t Include Your Full Address

A resume is no place for redundant and unnecessary details. 

Your full street address is a detail that doesn’t need to be included on your resume anymore. No matter how many times your parents advise you to!

No one will be contacting you by snail mail.

Just list your city and state.

In some rare cases, the job posting may specifically request a full address. Of course, you’ll want to follow directions and include your full street address then.

14. Don’t Forget to Proofread Your Resume

We know you won’t make the rookie mistake of sending out your resume without a grammar check and thorough proofreading.

A simple typo can cause severe harm to your reputation .

Even worse is if you have included Attention to Detail as a soft skill on your resume!

It’s often difficult for a writer to find mistakes in their own writing. It’s best if you can have a friend or family member proofread your document.

15. Don’t Always Include Your GPA

Another misconception often seen among college grads is that including their GPA on their recent college graduate resume is mandatory.

Including your GPA is usually not mandatory.

If your GPA is not competitive enough, putting it on your resume can hurt your chances of getting an interview.

That’s why you should only include your GPA when it’s 3.0 or above and likely to increase your chances of getting an interview.

You can delete your GPA from your resume entirely after it’s been 2 years since your graduation.

16. Don’t Include Your College Start Date

This is a pretty common mistake that we see on recent graduate resumes in their education section. 

You don’t need to mention when you started college.

Just include the month and year you graduated on your resume. Just the year works too.

You can also take the graduation date completely off if it’s been more than 2 years since you graduated.

On the other hand, if you are still in school, you can use any of these phrases:

• In progress
• To be completed + date
• Anticipated graduation date: + date

The actual text on your resume will be something similar to this:

Bachelor of Science, Chemical Engineering, Co-Operative Program, Honors Student

UNIVERSITY OF COLLEGE, New York, NY (To be completed December 2024)

17. Don’t Mention High School

Some of us want to forget high school sooner than others! 

Regardless, your high school alma mater has no place on your recent college grad resume.

As you have already completed your college graduation, including high school information on your resume is not necessary.

It will only take up precious resume real estate without adding any value for the hiring manager.

Use that space for more useful information that’s directly related to the job description.

18. Don’t Include References

As a college graduate, a one-page resume would be most suitable for you. 

Adding references to a recent college graduate resume is a waste of space and an out-dated practice. 

You should also avoid the mistake of using the phrase, “References available upon request.”

Hiring managers already know that you will provide references if asked.

(Related:  How to List References on a Resume [And If You Should] )

Key Takeaways

Getting your resume prepared for your first job as a recent graduate can be exhilarating. 

In all the excitement, avoiding mistakes and getting everything right can be a challenge, however. 

Here are a few things to always keep in mind while writing your recent college graduate resume:

• Be precise and specific.
• Use a professional email address and LinkedIn URL. 
• Avoid unnecessary details like personal information.
• Use a professional summary instead of objective statements. 
• Prioritize your skills, experience, and accomplishments based on your strengths. 
• Keep everything in close relation to the target position.
• Customize your resume for each job you apply for. 

If you need professional help writing your new graduate resume, we would love to help you! Just click on Resume Writing above to find more information.

We also recommend ResumeZest . They have a team of professional resume writers experienced in writing resumes for college graduates at an affordable price.

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College Resume - Examples & Writing Guides for 2024

You’ve just sat down to write a college student resume.

An A+ resume that converts.

Whether you need a part-time job to cover your bills or a college internship for more experience, we are here to help.

This guide will take you through a simple step-by-step process of creating a college student resume. 

• An example of a finished college resume that works
• How to write a college resume that’ll fill up your interview diary
• How to make your college resume stand out [with top tips & tricks]

For some added inspiration, here’s a college student resume example, created with our very own resume builder :

The above example gets serious results, and yours will too. Simply follow the steps below.

Check out some of these related resume examples that you might be interested in:

• No Experience Resume
• Internship Resume
• Research Assistant Resume
• Students and Graduates Resume
• High School Resume
• Teacher Resume

How to Format a College Student Resume

The first step when creating any resume is to pick the best resume format.

Formatting has a number of benefits, but mostly it allows the hiring manager to read your resume with ease.

The most common resume format for a college student is “functional” or “skill-based”, which allows the hiring manager to immediately see the benefits in hiring you. We recommend college students starting with this format.

Students will usually have stronger skills than their work history, which makes the functional resume a good choice. It’s also ideal for those who have gaps in their employment history.

Now that you have the best format, you need to organize your resume layout .

Use a College Student Resume Template

Before you go ahead with crafting your college student resume, you may want to use a college student resume template.

A resume that is neat and orderly will be a breeze for recruiters to read.

Oh, and it’s the best way to prevent formatting issues.

What to Include in a College Student Resume

The main sections in a college student resume are:

• Contact Information
• Volunteer Experience
• Extracurricular Activities

Want to go a step further? You can also add these optional sections:

• Awards & Certification
• Personal Projects

Interests & Hobbies

But what should you write for each of these sections? Read on to find out.

Want to know more about resume sections? View our guide on What to Put on a Resume .

How to Correctly Display your Contact Information

Now, this section doesn’t require flair, but it must be factually correct. Messing up the contact section can mean the recruiter can’t contact you – oops! 

The contact information section must include:

• Title - In this case, “College Student” or “High-school Graduate”
• Phone Number – Proofread this multiple times
• Email Address – Use a professional email address ([email protected]), not one from your childhood ([email protected]).
• (Optional) Location - Applying for a job abroad? Mention your location.
• Abigail Pearce - College Student. 101-358-6095. [email protected]
• Abigail Pearce - Student. 101-358-6095. [email protected]

How to Write a College Student Resume Summary or Objective

So, this is a job you really want.

This may even be a job you NEED.

However, your competition is fierce. 

And with so much competition, you need to convince the hiring manager within the first few sentences.

To do this, use a resume summary or objective .

These are short paragraphs that go on top of your resume, just under your contact information. They give an overview of your entire resume.

But what is the difference between the two sections?

A resume summary is a 2-4 sentence summary of your professional experiences and achievements.

Dependable marketing sophomore with 1 year part-time experience in a marketing internship to oversee marketing campaigns that maximise profit. Experience includes PPC campaigns, SMM, web design, brand development, and more.

A resume objective is a 2-4 sentence snapshot of what you want to achieve professionally.

Current undergraduate sophomore in marketing with hundreds of classroom hours in marketing and sales related courses. Passionate about maximizing revenue with effective marketing campaigns. Experience includes creating campaigns for my own personal projects in my first term at College X. Skilled in WordPress, Facebook Ads Manager, Photoshop, ClickFunnels, and more.

So, which one is best, summary or objective?

Those with some work experience should go with a resume summary. On the other hand, those who seriously lack work experience should go with a resume objective.

How to Make Your College Student Work Experience Stand Out

Recruiters like to feel confident that you can do the job. There is no easier way to do this than to list your work experience .

Here’s the best way to structure your work experience section:

• Position name
• Company Name
• Responsibilities & Achievements

The Pizza Cabin

03/2019 - 01/2020

• Served food to 40+ people a night and multiple tables at a time.
• Educated customers on menu items and daily specials.
• Received 98% positive customer feedback.
• Engaged customers in a personal, yet professional manner, which helped me to win “Employee of the Month” 4 times.

To separate your resume from the competition, you should focus on your achievements instead of daily tasks. This will allow the recruiter to see the obvious benefits in hiring you.

Instead of saying:

“Served customers”

“Served food to 80+ people a night and multiple tables at a time”

Simply, the first statement is way too vague. There zero chance the recruiter will be impressed by this.

The second statement shows that you were able to serve 80+ people and multiple tables at a time. This tells the recruiter that you are able to work under pressured conditions and to time constraints – impressive!

What if You Don’t Have Work Experience?

Now, not every applicant will have worked in a similar job before.

If this is you, there is a simple way to get around this.

Simply call-upon crossover skills from any previous jobs.

For example, if you held a customer service role at a local pizza restaurant, you can talk about any crossover skills and experiences. Just like a sales associate, you would be able to show you used strong communication and sales skills.

As a student, make sure to check out our student resume guide!

How to Correctly List your Education

Next, it’s time to talk about your education.

Whether it’s a college junior resume or college sophomore resume, your education section is crucial.

There’s nothing too complicated with this section, just simply enter the information for your in-progress degree in the following format:

• Degree Type & Major
• University Name
• Expected Graduation
• GPA, Honours, Courses, and anything else you might want to add

Majoring in Marketing

University of Chicago

2019 - Present

• Relevant Courses: Principles of Marketing, Managerial Communications, Quantitative Methods, and Macroeconomics.

Now, you may have some questions on this section. If so, here are the answers to some of the most frequent questions that we get:

• What if I haven’t completed education yet?

As we mention above, you should still mention your current place of education, despite not finishing yet

• Should I include my high school education?

If you have not yet finished your college degree, you should also include your high school education

• What do I put first, my education or experience?

Experiences are the priority, so those go first

Want more information? Check out our guide on how to list education on a resume .

Top 10 Skills for a College Student Resume

You’ve got all the skills.

But here’s the thing –

Your competition is well-skilled too!

Show the hiring manager that you’re the top candidate by listing your best skills.

But what are the best skills for a college resume?

Create a list of hard skills and soft skills that you have developed so far in life, such as the following:

Hard Skills for a College Resume:

• Microsoft Office
• Typing Speed
• Copywriting

Soft Skills:

• Creative Thinking
• Communication
• Time-Management
• Team Player
• Decision-Making

Tailor your skills to the job description. You can have the best skills in the world, but the recruiter won’t appreciate them if they’re not relevant to the job.

Here’s a more comprehensive list of 100+ must-have skills this year.

What Else Can You Include?

We’ve now covered every essential resume section .

But the school bell hasn’t rung just yet.

You need your resume to stand out!

Acing the above sections should be enough to get you shortlisted, but adding the following sections could give you a further advantage over the other applicants.  

Awards & Certifications

Have you ever won an award?

Have you completed any third-party courses?

Do you hold any specialized certifications?

Regardless of what it is, if there is anything that you’re proud of, be sure to include it here.

Here’s an example:

Awards & Certificates

• Food Handlers Card & Food Safety Manager Certification 
• “Critical Thinking Masterclass” – Coursera Course

Need to speak multiple languages at your new job?

Yes or no, being able to speak a second language is impressive.

And with so much competition, this could be the difference.

Add a language section if you have space. 

Rank the languages by proficiency:

• Intermediate

Now, you may be wondering, “why would a recruiter want to know that I’m a part of the football team?”

Well, it allows the recruiter to get to know who you are on a personal level.

But it doesn’t stop there…

Certain hobbies demonstrate that you have soft skills, like teamwork and communication. 

Here’s which hobbies & interests you may want to mention.

Include a Cover Letter with Your Resume

Your resume should now be ready to send.

No application is complete without a convincing cover letter.

In opposition to a generic resume, a personalized cover letter shows that you care about working for this specific company .

Here’s how to structure a winning cover letter:

You should complete the following sections:

Personal Contact Information

Your full name, profession, email, phone number, and location

Hiring Manager’s Contact Information

Full name, position, location, email

Opening Paragraph

It’s no secret that recruiters skim through their pile of resumes. As such, use concise language to mention:

• The position you’re applying for
• Your experience summary and best achievement to date

With the recruiter intrigued, you can get deeper into the following specifics:

• Why you chose this specific company
• What you know about the company
• How are your top skills relevant for the job
• Which similar industries or positions have you worked in before

Closing Paragraph

Don’t just end the conversation abruptly, you should:

• Conclude the points made in the body paragraph
• Thank the recruiter for the opportunity
• Finish with a call to action. This is a good way to keep the conversation going. A simple “At your earliest opportunity, I’d love to discuss more about how I can help you achieve X” will work

Formal Salutations

End the letter in a professional manner. Something like, “Kind regards” or “Sincerely.”

For more inspiration, read our step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter .

Key Takeaways

Building a college resume doesn't have to be hard.

Follow the tips in this guide for a college resume that is head & shoulders above the competition. 

Here are our best tips on how to create a college resume:

• Make your resume easy to read by formatting it correctly. Prioritize the reverse-chronological format, and then follow the best practices on content layout
• Use a resume summary or objective to hook the recruiter
• In your work experience section, highlight your most notable achievements to date
• Include a convincing cover letter to separate you from the competition

Suggested Reading:

• How to Make a Resume with No-Experience [21+ Examples]
• 21+ Essential LinkedIn Profile Tips For Job-Seekers
• Use Resume Keywords to Land the Job [880+ Keywords]

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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.

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20 good skills to put on resume for new grads

Looking for the top skills to include on your resume as a new grad? This guide highlights 20 essential skills to showcase your value to employers.

As a new graduate, it can be challenging to know which skills to highlight on your resume. Employers are looking for candidates who can bring a diverse set of skills to the table, and it's essential to show that you have the skills that are in demand in today's job market. Here are the top 20 skills that new grads should consider including on their resumes:

1. Critical thinking

Employers expect candidates to have strong critical thinking skills to solve problems and make informed decisions. Demonstrate your ability to analyze complex situations, evaluate different perspectives, and develop creative solutions that meet business goals. Provide examples of how you have used critical thinking to improve processes, increase efficiency, or solve complex problems.

2. Creativity

Employers appreciate candidates who can bring fresh ideas to the table and find innovative solutions. Highlight your creativity by sharing examples of how you have solved problems in unconventional ways or how you have introduced new processes that have led to positive results. Provide specific examples of how your creative approach has positively impacted your previous roles or projects.

3. Leadership

Leadership skills are highly sought-after by employers as they demonstrate the ability to motivate and manage others effectively. Highlight your experience in leading teams or projects, and provide examples of how you have inspired team members to achieve common goals. Share specific examples of how you have created a positive work environment, delegated tasks, and provided constructive feedback to team members.

4. Teamwork

Employers value team players who can collaborate, communicate effectively, and support their colleagues. Highlight your ability to work in a team by sharing examples of how you have contributed to a team's success and how you have handled conflicts or disagreements. Demonstrate how you have actively participated in team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and collaborative projects.

5. Time management

Effective time management is crucial in the workplace, and employers look for candidates who can manage their workload efficiently. Demonstrate your ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and handle multiple projects simultaneously. Share specific examples of how you have managed your time effectively to complete projects on time and handle unexpected challenges.

6. Organization

Employers seek candidates who are organized and can manage multiple tasks and projects effectively. Highlight your organizational skills by providing examples of how you have kept track of details, managed projects, and met deadlines consistently. Share specific examples of how you have organized your workday, kept track of project timelines, and prioritized tasks to meet deadlines.

7. Attention to detail

Employers look for candidates who pay attention to detail, especially in industries such as healthcare, finance, and law. Showcase your ability to catch errors, maintain accuracy, and deliver high-quality work. Highlight specific instances where your attention to detail has resulted in positive outcomes, such as catching errors before they become costly mistakes, ensuring compliance with regulations, or improving the quality of deliverables.

8. Adaptability

The job market is constantly evolving, and employers want candidates who can adapt to new situations and challenges. Highlight your flexibility by sharing examples of how you have adjusted to changes in your previous roles or how you have learned new skills quickly. Demonstrate your ability to be open to new ideas, take on new responsibilities, and adjust your approach to achieve results in a changing environment.

9. Customer service

Employers want candidates who can provide exceptional customer service to build strong relationships with clients. Highlight your experience in providing customer service and showcase how you have handled challenging situations to ensure customer satisfaction. Share specific examples of how you have handled difficult customers, resolved complaints, and exceeded customer expectations.

10. Communication

As a new graduate, it's essential to showcase your communication skills through your resume and interview. Employers seek candidates who can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, to convey ideas, collaborate with team members, and interact with clients. Highlight your ability to tailor your communication style to different audiences, use active listening skills, and convey complex information in an easy-to-understand manner. Share specific examples of how you have effectively communicated in your previous roles or projects.

11. Data analysis

Data analysis is becoming increasingly important in many industries. Highlight your ability to collect and analyze data by showcasing your experience in data analysis tools and techniques. Share specific examples of how you have used data analysis to inform decision-making, identify trends, and solve complex problems.

12. Technical skills

Depending on your field, you may need to have technical skills, such as coding or proficiency in specific software programs. Highlight your technical skills by providing examples of how you have used them in previous roles or projects. Showcase your ability to learn new technical skills quickly and adapt to changes in technology.

13. Project management

If you've managed projects in the past, be sure to highlight your experience. Employers want candidates who can manage projects from start to finish. Showcase your project management skills by sharing specific examples of how you have planned, executed, and monitored projects, managed resources, and delivered successful outcomes. Highlight your ability to collaborate with stakeholders and communicate project progress effectively.

If you've worked in sales, highlight your experience. Sales skills are valuable in many industries. Showcase your sales skills by providing examples of how you have achieved sales targets, built relationships with customers, and closed deals. Highlight your ability to prospect, negotiate, and communicate effectively with clients.

15. Marketing

If you've worked in marketing, highlight your experience. Marketing skills are valuable in many industries. Showcase your marketing skills by providing examples of how you have developed and executed marketing campaigns, managed social media platforms, and analyzed market trends. Highlight your ability to create compelling content, work with cross-functional teams, and measure the success of marketing initiatives.

16. Public speaking

Public speaking is a valuable skill that requires confidence, preparation, and effective communication. Showcase your ability to speak in front of an audience by highlighting your experience in delivering presentations, leading discussions, or participating in public speaking events. Emphasize your ability to connect with the audience, deliver messages with impact, and handle questions and feedback.

17. Interpersonal skills

Interpersonal skills are essential in the workplace and involve communication, collaboration, and relationship-building. Highlight your ability to build positive relationships with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders by providing examples of how you have worked with diverse teams, managed conflicts, and demonstrated empathy and respect. Emphasize your ability to listen actively, provide feedback constructively, and communicate effectively in different settings.

18. Research

Research skills are valuable in many industries and involve gathering, analyzing, and interpreting data to inform decisions and solve problems. Highlight your ability to conduct research by showcasing your experience in designing and implementing research studies, collecting and analyzing data, and synthesizing information. Emphasize your ability to use various research methods, tools, and technologies, and to present findings in a clear and compelling way.

19. Writing

Writing skills are essential in many industries and involve communicating ideas, information, and messages through various media. Highlight your ability to write by showcasing your experience in writing different types of documents, such as reports, proposals, emails, or social media posts. Emphasize your ability to write clearly and concisely, adapt to different audiences and purposes, and use correct grammar, syntax, and punctuation.

20. Presentation skills

If you've given presentations in the past, highlight your experience in delivering effective and engaging presentations. Emphasize your ability to plan and prepare presentations, use visual aids and multimedia effectively, and deliver messages with clarity and impact. Provide examples of how you have adapted your presentation style to different audiences, managed time effectively, and received positive feedback.

Hard Skills vs soft skills

When crafting your resume or preparing for an interview, it's important to understand the difference between hard skills and soft skills. Both types of skills are valuable, but they serve different purposes in the workplace. Here's a breakdown of hard skills vs. soft skills and how to showcase them effectively:

Hard Skills:

Hard skills are specific, technical skills that can be taught and measured. Examples of hard skills include programming, data analysis, or graphic design. These skills are typically learned through formal education, training programs, or on-the-job experience. Hard skills are often used to demonstrate proficiency in a particular area or to qualify for a specific job.

To showcase your hard skills, it's important to be specific and provide concrete examples of how you have used these skills in past roles or projects. Use relevant keywords and include any certifications or training programs you have completed to demonstrate your expertise in these areas. You can also highlight any technical tools or software programs you are proficient in.

Soft Skills:

Soft skills, on the other hand, are personal attributes that are often harder to measure or quantify. Examples of soft skills include communication, teamwork, and leadership. Soft skills are often considered to be just as important as hard skills because they can affect how well you work with others and adapt to new situations.

To showcase your soft skills, provide examples of how you have used them to achieve specific goals or overcome challenges. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to work well with others, communicate effectively, or lead a team. Soft skills can also be highlighted in your cover letter or personal statement, where you can discuss your personal values and work ethic.

Common Questions

What skills should i include on my resume.

It depends on the job you are applying for and the industry you want to work in. Generally, you should include skills that are relevant to the job and showcase your strengths and abilities.

How many skills should I include on my resume?

You should include the skills that are most relevant to the job, but try to keep it to around 10-15 skills. Including too many skills can make your resume look cluttered and unfocused.

Should I include soft skills on my resume?

Yes, soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management are highly valued by employers. These skills can demonstrate your ability to work well with others and adapt to new situations.

How should I format my skills section on my resume?

You can format your skills section as a bullet list or a table. Use bullet points to list your skills and highlight the ones that are most relevant to the job. You can also group similar skills together and use subheadings to make the section more organized.

How can I showcase my skills on my resume?

You can showcase your skills by providing examples of how you have used them in past roles or projects. Use action verbs and specific examples to demonstrate your achievements and show how your skills can benefit the company.

Can I include skills that I don't have much experience in?

It's okay to include skills that you are still developing, but make sure to be honest about your level of experience. You can also highlight your willingness to learn and improve in these areas.

Should I customize my skills section for each job application?

Yes, you should customize your skills section for each job application to highlight the skills that are most relevant to the job. Use keywords from the job description to ensure that your resume passes the initial screening process.

Should I include certifications or training in my skills section?

Yes, you can include relevant certifications or training in your skills section to demonstrate your expertise in a particular area. This can also show that you are committed to continuous learning and professional development.

In conclusion, as a new graduate, it's essential to highlight the skills that are in demand in today's job market. By including the skills listed above on your resume, you'll be able to show employers that you have the skills and abilities they're looking for in a candidate. Good luck with your job search!

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How to Make a Resume for Recent College Graduate

• Career Advice
• Industry Insights

Posted On 08 Dec 2020

Writing a resume can be challenging for anyone, and even more so for a recent college graduate, mainly because there’s little to no experience to speak of.

Since resumes are all about the experience, having practically none of it can make the task of writing a recent graduate resume harder than it should be. Add to that the fact that you’ll be applying along with a slew of other fresh graduates (and probably more than a few experienced applicants), and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the whole thing, as our seasoned writers here at our resume writing service will tell you.

Before you worry yourself sick, understand that even a fresh grad like you can still write a strong, outstanding resume that boosts your chances of getting hired. It’s all about knowing the best tips and techniques in crafting a recent college graduate resume. Here are some tried-and-true tips on how to make a resume for recent college graduate to get you started on the right track.

Start with a resume summary

Studies have shown that recruiters and hiring managers take an average of six seconds reading a resume. A resume summary ensures they find what they need from your recent graduate resume within that short span of time.

The resume summary is an important section for recent college graduates like you because it lets you highlight your most sellable qualities and immediately convey your value as a future employee. Make sure your resume summary stands out by including the following:

• Academic accomplishments
• Leadership roles taken (clubs, school orgs, non-profit groups, etc.)
• Hard and soft skills

Incorporate these into your resume organically, and include statements on how you expect to deliver results as well as how you can to help the employer achieve their goals when hired. Place your summary statement immediately below the personal information section on your resume so it’s one of the first things your readers see on your recent graduate resume.

Highlight your educational attainment

As a new graduate, your education is going to be your biggest application asset. You’ll want to put this information right after your resume summary. Include the name of your college, your graduation date, and your major. If you graduated with honors, or had a 3.5 GPA or above, you’ll want this info to feature that prominently on your resume.

You may also include a list of minor courses completed apart from your main degree, but do this only if you cannot express certain skills that the job calls for in any other manner. As you move forward with your career path, you will be able to move your education to the bottom of the last section of your resume.

Mention awards

You can include a list of awards and recognitions acquired during your time in college. These should be kept brief and apply only to recent activities. You may be tempted to put as many accolades on your resume as possible, but avoid including experiences before college, as these are not generally considered relevant in a professional setting. That said, youth awards of great significance (for instance, Young American Award or President’s Youth Award) can be included.

Use keywords

Avoid tired buzzwords like “hard-working” and “team player” and put keywords used in the job posting instead. Review the posting carefully and try to identify prominent words that match the job and industry. It also helps to use the words that the employer used to describe the qualities that they are looking for in a candidate. For example, if the posting describes that candidates should be “tech-savvy,” “progressive” or “forward-thinking,” make sure to include these in your resume. Again, the trick here is to incorporate the words organically.

Include any little work experience you may have

Did you go through an internship? Take a teacher’s assistant role? Work while studying? Paid or unpaid, work experiences such as these may be worth mentioning, especially if they have transferrable skills that relate to the job you’re applying for. Listing the little work experience that you may have can be helpful in conveying your drive to succeed, even if they are not directly related to the job you’re applying for.

Add hobbies and interests

If you’re having trouble filling up space on your resume, you can include Hobbies and Interests as your final section. Likewise, any presentation or publication will also work. If you have had the opportunity to present at any event or have your work published by a major publication, you can include these and other similar information at the bottom of your resume.

Check, recheck, then check again

Many recruiters and hiring managers take note of any spelling, grammatical, and punctuation errors in a resume. Often, they consider poorly-written resumes as an indication of a candidate’s overall work ethic, so carefully comb over your resume for any errors. Try to use clear, concise language and avoid bad writing techniques like keyword stuffing where you pad your resume with too many keywords that end up destroying your message. To be on the safe side, have someone adept in written English read it over as well.

Feeling anxious about your resume writing skills?

Don’t fret, Resumeble is here to help. Our professional resume writers will work with you one-on-one to craft a resume that not only grabs and sustains the attention of recruiters but also beats Applicant Tracking Software (ATS) widely used by many companies today to screen candidates. We guarantee you an interview call within 60 days of finalizing your resume. Send us your resume recent graduate today for a free, no-obligation evaluation!

• 7 seconds: this is how long your resume has either to impress or be ignored by the recruiter 
• 300+: average number of applications one corporate job opening posted online receives 
• 3%: number of sent resumes that result in interviews 

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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.

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