Resume Sections Every Teenager Should Include

Why Structuring Your Resume Matters More Than You Think

Imagine scrolling through countless applications as a hiring manager. What grabs your attention? A well-structured resume that flows naturally, showcases relevant details, and feels easy to scan. For teenagers, who often lack extensive experience, organization becomes even more crucial. The right layout and sections make it easier for recruiters to spot your strengths, rather than getting lost in irrelevant information or white noise.

In our experience, a clean, clear structure combined with strategic content can level the playing field. It’s not about padding your resume with fluff but about emphasizing what truly counts—whether that’s volunteer work, school projects, or soft skills.

Before we dive into the must-have sections, you might find it helpful to review this guide on creating a resume without any job experience. It complements what we discuss here by offering practical steps to frame your story effectively.

1. Contact Information – Your Professional Starting Point

The first section is straightforward but critical. Ensure your contact details are clear and professional. Many teens underestimate how sloppy email addresses or incomplete phone numbers can undermine their chances.

What to Include:

• Full Name: Use your legal first and last name.
• Phone Number: Provide a number you answer reliably.
• Email Address: Preferably a combination of your first and last name (avoid nicknames or casual handles).
• LinkedIn or Portfolio Link (optional): If you have a professional online presence or creative portfolio, list it here.
• Location: City and state are sufficient; no need for full address.

Tips: Double-check that your voicemail greeting sounds professional—many teens overlook this simple gatekeeper.

2. Objective or Summary Statement – Set the Tone

This section is optional but can be a valuable addition for teenagers. Instead of a generic “objective,” frame it as a concise summary of what you bring to the table and what you’re seeking.

How to Craft an Effective Objective:

• Keep it brief: One to two sentences are enough.
• Highlight relevant strengths: Think about soft skills or coursework related to the job.
• Express enthusiasm and goals: Show genuine interest in the role or industry.

Example: “Motivated high school student with strong organizational skills and experience in community volunteer work, eager to apply teamwork and communication skills in a retail assistant role.”

We’ve noticed that a focused objective can guide recruiters’ eyes, especially when experience is limited—it clarifies your intent and potential.

3. Education – More Than Just a School Name

For most teenagers, education is a cornerstone of their resume. But it’s not just listing your school and expected graduation year. How you showcase education can illustrate your dedication and intellect.

Key Details to Include:

• School name and location.
• Expected graduation date.
• GPA (if strong): Only include if 3.0 or above, or when specifically requested.
• Relevant coursework: Include classes relating to the job (e.g., computer science for tech roles, business class for retail).
• Academic honors or awards: Scholarships, Dean’s List, or any notable achievements.

Pro tip: If you’re applying for a job in a specific field, tailoring this section to highlight related classes or projects can be a game changer. This shows recruiters you’re already invested in learning those skills.

4. Experience – Broadening the Definition Beyond Paid Jobs

Many teenagers believe experience means paid employment only, but that’s a misconception. In our experience, including any role where you’ve demonstrated responsibility, teamwork, or skill counts.

Types of Experience to Consider:

• Part-time or summer jobs.
• Volunteering: Especially if it involved leadership, customer interaction, or skills relevant to the position.
• Internships or apprenticeships.
• School projects or extracurricular activities: These can be framed to show skill sets and commitment.

How to Present Experience Effectively:

• Job title or role: Be clear and straightforward.
• Organization name and location.
• Dates of involvement.
• Responsibilities and achievements: Use action verbs and quantify results when possible. For example, “Organized fundraising events that raised $500 for local charity.”

Recruiters appreciate seeing effort and impact, regardless of whether it was paid. So frame your achievements like you would a formal job to convey professionalism and reliability.

5. Skills – Show What You Bring to the Table

Listing skills might seem obvious, but many teens struggle to identify which skills matter most or how to express them well. Skip generic buzzwords like “hardworking” and think about tangible skills and traits that suit the role.

Essential Skill Categories:

• Technical skills: Computer programs, social media platforms, or tools you’ve used.
• Soft skills: Communication, problem-solving, teamwork, adaptability.
• Language skills: Fluency in multiple languages if applicable.
• Certifications: CPR training, first aid, Microsoft Office Specialist, or other relevant certificates.

Practical tip: Tailor your skills to the job description. If you’re applying to a food service job, highlight customer service and cash handling if you have experience.

6. Extracurricular Activities – A Window into Your Character

Employers often look for well-rounded candidates, especially when hiring teenagers. Activities outside of the classroom or work reveal your interests, leadership, and interpersonal skills.

Examples to Include:

• Clubs and organizations (e.g., debate team, student council).
• Sports teams and roles held (team captain, etc.).
• Arts and music involvement.
• Community service or special interest groups.

Describe any leadership roles or notable accomplishments here—these demonstrate initiative and responsibility effectively.

7. Awards and Achievements – Highlight Your Distinctions

Awards don’t have to be national-level accolades to matter. Even small-scale recognitions or certificates show dedication and success.

What to Include:

• Academic awards (e.g., Honor Roll, writing contests).
• Sporting achievements (team MVP, scholarship).
• Community service or volunteer recognition.
• Special achievements relevant to the job (e.g., tech competition wins).

These can set you apart from other applicants who rarely include them.

8. References – When and How to Share Them

Many teens instinctively add “References available upon request,” but this is often unnecessary. We advise focusing on getting strong references ready but sharing them only when asked.

Who to Ask for References:

• Teachers or school counselors.
• Coaches or club advisors.
• Volunteer supervisors.

Make sure you ask permission and provide your references with context about the job you’re applying for to help them prepare.

Common Resume Mistakes Teenagers Should Avoid

Building a first resume comes with a learning curve. Here are frequent pitfalls and how to sidestep them:

• Overloading with irrelevant information: Stick to sections that add value and back it up with specifics.
• Typos and grammatical errors: Proofreading is non-negotiable—these mistakes can cost you interviews.
• Using an unprofessional email address or contact details.
• Including personal information that’s unnecessary: Avoid listing age, marital status, or a full home address.
• Not tailoring the resume for each application: Generic resumes rarely impress; customize your objective, skills, and experience sections.

Practical Takeaways for Teens Crafting Their Resume

• Focus on clarity and relevance: Each section should answer the question, “Why should they hire me?”
• Use bullet points and action verbs: Keep it scannable and dynamic.
• Keep it to one page: At this stage, brevity and impact matter more than length.
• Leverage volunteer work and extracurriculars: They’re valuable just like paid jobs.
• Seek feedback: Share your resume draft with mentors, teachers, or career counselors.

Conclusion: Your Resume is Your Story—Tell It With Confidence

When we think about teen resumes, we shouldn’t see a blank page as a barrier but as a blank canvas. Including the right sections—contact info, education, a compelling objective, experience beyond paid jobs, skills, extracurricular activities, and acknowledgments—creates a narrative of your readiness and potential.

Remember, every teen's path is unique. Presenting a thoughtful, recruiter-friendly resume means reflecting your best qualities in a way that connects with the job and employer. So take a deep breath and start building your resume with these essential sections in mind—it’s your first step toward professional success.

For additional insights on how to build a resume without formal experience, visit this detailed guide.