When it comes to college applications, it’s important to highlight as much as you can to ensure you stand out from all the other applicants. While grades and test scores are crucial, showcasing your extracurricular activities, achievements, and personal development through a student resume can significantly enhance your application. One of the most effective ways to submit this information is by uploading your resume to the Common App. Use the student resume template attached above to help you better organize your resume.
Highlight Your Unique Story
Your student resume is your opportunity to tell your unique story beyond grades and test scores. It allows you to highlight your passions, interests, and accomplishments in a concise and organized format. Admissions officers can gain a deeper understanding of who you are, what drives you, and how you contribute to your community.
Comprehensive Overview of Your Achievements
Unlike the limited space on the Common App’s activity section, a resume provides a comprehensive overview of your achievements. Include details such as leadership roles, awards, volunteer work, internships, and relevant coursework. This detailed information gives admissions officers a clearer picture of your abilities and potential contributions to their campus.
Demonstrate Your Skills and Abilities
A well-crafted student resume can effectively showcase your skills and abilities. Whether it’s communication, leadership, problem-solving, or teamwork, your resume can demonstrate how you’ve developed and applied these skills in various aspects of your life. This evidence can strengthen your candidacy and differentiate you from other applicants.
Personal Development and Growth
Your student resume can also reflect your personal development and growth throughout high school. Include experiences that have shaped your character, values, and aspirations. Admissions officers are interested in seeing how you’ve evolved over time and how you’ve overcome challenges or setbacks.
Steps to Upload Your Resume to the Common App
- Use Curvebreakers’ Student Resume Template to help craft your resume.
- Log in to your Common App account.
- Navigate to the “My Colleges” tab and select the college to which you want to apply.
- Click on the “Writing” section and scroll down to find the “Uploads” section.
- Click on “Upload” and select your resume file from your computer.
- Review your uploaded file to ensure it is correct, then click “Upload” to submit.
A student resume is a valuable addition to your college application, offering a comprehensive overview of your achievements, skills, and personal development. Uploading it to the Common App can provide admissions officers with a more holistic view of who you are and what you can bring to their institution. So, take the time to craft a compelling resume that highlights your strengths and sets you apart from the competition.