As a student, you might feel like you don’t have enough traditional work experience for a standard chronological resume. In my opinion, that’s where the combination resume comes in handy! It allows you to highlight your valuable skills alongside any work history you have. Here’s how to make yours shine:

1. Start with a Focused Summary or Objective.

Think of this as your introduction. Since you might have less formal work experience, a brief (1-3 sentences) objective can clearly state the type of role you’re seeking and what you hope to contribute. Alternatively, a short summary can highlight your key skills, academic achievements, and any relevant experiences (even volunteer work or projects). Tailor this to each specific job or internship you apply for.

2. Spotlight Your Skills and Abilities.

This is the core of your combination resume as a student. Create a dedicated “Skills” or “Areas of Expertise” section right after your summary/objective. Brainstorm all the skills you’ve gained through coursework, projects, extracurricular activities, and any part-time jobs or volunteering. Group these skills into relevant categories (e.g., Technical Skills, Communication Skills, Leadership Skills, Problem-Solving). Be specific! Instead of just saying “Communication,” mention “Public Speaking,” “Report Writing,” or “Team Collaboration.”

3. Quantify Your Achievements Whenever Possible.

Even if you don’t have an extensive work history, think about your accomplishments in your projects, coursework, or extracurriculars. Did you lead a student club and increase membership? Did you achieve a top grade on a challenging project? Use numbers and specific details to showcase your impact within your skills section or in your experience descriptions. For example, instead of “Worked on group projects,” try “Collaborated in teams of 4-5 on three semester-long projects, consistently receiving ‘A’ grades for final deliverables.”

4. Showcase Relevant Experiences (Beyond Traditional Jobs).

Don’t limit your “Experience” section to just paid employment. Include internships, volunteer work, relevant coursework projects, leadership roles in clubs, and even significant academic achievements. For each entry, list the organization/institution, your role/title, and the dates. Underneath, use bullet points to describe your responsibilities and, most importantly, your accomplishments that relate to the skills you highlighted earlier. Focus on transferable skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and time management.

5. Keep Your Education Section Clear and Concise.

Your education is a key asset as a student. Include the name of your institution, your degree, your major (and minor, if applicable), your expected graduation date (or actual graduation date), and your GPA if it’s strong (typically 90 or above). You can also include relevant coursework, academic honors (like Dean’s List), or scholarships.

6. Format for Readability.

Make your resume easy for recruiters to scan. Use clear headings, bullet points, and consistent formatting. Choose a professional font and ensure there’s enough white space on the page. Aim for a one-page resume, especially if you have limited work experience.

7. Tailor and Proofread Meticulously.

Every job or internship is different. Take the time to tailor your resume to each specific opportunity, highlighting the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job description. Finally, proofread your resume very carefully for any typos or grammatical errors. Ask a career advisor or a trusted friend to review it as well – fresh eyes can catch mistakes you might have missed!

I sincerely believe, by following these tips, you can create a compelling combination resume that effectively showcases your skills and potential, even as a student! Good luck with your job search!