Most people likely get an education with one goal in mind: a job. To get one after you graduate or as an internship, you need a resume that showcases what you can offer. With these resume writing tips for college students, you can write such a resume.

A resume is what gets you through the door going to your job interview — something that’s in short supply these days. Use these surefire resume-building tips for college students like yourself, and you’ll be a step closer to that job you’ve always wanted.

Lead with Your Credentials or Accomplishments

Conciseness is key, and you can make a good impression early by leading with your credentials. Of course, you may still be in college as you write your resume. This means you’ll have little to no credentials to show off.

As an alternative, your accomplishments can be on the front page instead. Your accomplishments can be any of the following:

  • Clubs or organizations of which you’ve been a member
  • Projects for which your university or college recognized you
  • Competitions or other extracurricular activities
  • Current GPA

Keep It Specific to the Job or Company

In the absence of things to put front and center, it’s easy to mention anything you think will give you a competitive edge. Don’t make the mistake of writing a generic resume.

Potential employers want to see what you can offer their companies. For you to display what you have value to offer, mention only accomplishments or credentials specific to the job or the workplace.

Keep It Short and Simple

There’s a prevailing misconception that longer is better. While this may be true for most things like your 3,000-word term paper, it’s not the case for resumes.

Bear in mind that human resources officers go through hundreds — if not thousands — of resumes. Very few will pay attention to the length of your resume. It’s still best to highlight only relevant information, such as your achievements and credentials. Of course, your personal information and contact information are also a must.

If You’ve Had Work Experience, Lead with It

Related or not, work experience can trump academic credentials.

Employers want someone who can thrive in a work environment. Work experience may not necessarily be in the industry you’re after, but it shows that you’re familiar with work culture and etiquette. These two things, at least to many recruiters, are worth more than a lot of course credits.

Edit or Regret It

The resume is your chance to make a good and lasting impression on a prospective employer. For this reason, ensure everything is accurate and correct.

See to it that your work experience and achievements are in chronological order. Most important, check and correct mistakes in grammar, syntax, formatting, and spelling. Also, keep your contact information updated.

Leave a Lasting Impression Using These Resume Tips for College Students

Your resume is more than a statement of your achievements.

By making it a statement of what you can offer companies, you’ll be receiving calls for interviews by the dozen. Follow through with the right interview responses, and you’ll be landing a job in no time.