As we start to think about our futures and college, it is important to build a resume. A resume is a tool for college admission representatives or an employer to see your achievements, work history, and qualifications all at once. Your resume is the very first impression of you without those individuals actually meeting you.

Step 1: Create a basic resume format. At the top of your resume, it will contain your full name, contact information (including a professional email address), and sections labeled: Objective, Skills/Abilities, Experiences, Education, and Leadership.

Step 2: Compose an objective statement. This is your life mission, educational or career based, compiled into 1 or 2 sentences. These few sentences must show your drive and ambitions and gather the attention of whomever is reading it. Remember, the goal of a resume is to sell yourself, make yourself marketable.

Step 3: Sit back and think over the years. What have you done that makes you shine as a person? Are you a leader? Do you have many volunteer hours? Do you have skills in anything is particular? Do you have an educational background, (high school and afterwards)?  Or do you have a work history? Then you can build a resume! Now it’s time to record your experiences, abilities and your objective.

Style tip: Your work history, leadership positions, and educational background must be listed to most recent to least recent.

Step 4: Read, reread, and revise! Grammar plays a major role in selling yourself. A person with poor grammar is viewed as unprofessional. Most companies and colleges want someone who will represent with them with only the best. Use words such as: obtain, conduct, overseen, facilitated to extend your vocabulary. Resume vocabulary guide here!

It is important to include all information listed above to obtain a strong resume. This is a form of self branding and gives you a head start in your career and postsecondary educational plans. Remember, a resume is a living document so always keep it up to date!!

Below is a link to my resume that you may use as a guide. This can be an example on how to build a decent and presentable resume: Resume Guide