Landing your first job or internship while you’re still in high school can feel overwhelming. What do you even put on a resume if you haven’t worked before? Here’s the good news — you probably have more to include than you think. A great high school resume example can guide you in showcasing your strengths, even without formal experience.
Whether you’re applying for a part-time job, summer internship, or volunteer opportunity, your resume is your chance to show responsibility, motivation, and a willingness to learn. Let’s walk through exactly how to write a high school resume that gets noticed, and then look at a real, hand-crafted sample.
High School Resume Example (No Experience Needed)
Name: Jordan Taylor
Phone: (123) 456-7890
Email: jordan.taylor@email.com
Location: Chicago, IL
Objective
Motivated and dependable high school junior seeking a part-time retail associate position to gain hands-on experience in customer service. Known for strong communication skills, a positive attitude, and the ability to learn quickly.
Education
Lincoln High School, Chicago, IL
Expected Graduation: June 2026
GPA: 3.7/4.0
Relevant Coursework: Business Studies, Computer Applications, Public Speaking
Skills
Strong verbal and written communication
Basic knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel
Organized and detail-oriented
Punctual and responsible
Able to work independently and in teams
Extracurricular Activities
Student Council, 2023–Present
Organized school events, fundraisers, and meetings
Improved communication between students and administration
Yearbook Committee, 2022–Present
Contributed to layout and photo selection for the school yearbook
Met strict publishing deadlines under pressure
Volunteer Experience
Public Library Assistant, Summer 2024
Helped shelve books, organize reading sessions, and assist young readers
Greeted and guided visitors during summer reading events
Awards & Achievements
Honor Roll, 2022 & 2023
Perfect Attendance Award, 2023
Winner, School Speech Contest, 2024
Resume Tips for High School Students
Focus on what you have. Even if you don’t have job experience, school involvement, volunteer work, and coursework can all show your strengths.
Use action verbs. Words like “organized,” “led,” “assisted,” or “created” help make your accomplishments stand out.
Customize for each job. Adjust your objective and skills to match the role you’re applying for.
Keep it clean and simple. One page is perfect. Use a readable font and keep formatting consistent.
Proofread carefully. Typos can make a bad impression, so check your resume or have someone else review it.
FAQ: High School Resume Example
What should I include on a high school resume if I have no job experience?
Include your education, skills, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and any awards. These show your work ethic and interests.
How long should a high school resume be?
Keep it to one page. Focus on relevant and recent achievements that relate to the job or opportunity.
Should I include an objective on my high school resume?
Yes, a short and focused objective helps employers quickly understand what you’re looking for and why you’re applying.
Can I use the same resume for every job?
It’s better to tweak your resume for each role. Match the objective and skills to the job description to improve your chances.
By following the advice and using the high school resume example above, you’ll be ready to make a strong impression — even if it’s your very first application. Start simple, stay honest, and remember: your future employers care more about your potential and attitude than your past experience.