12 answers
Camilla
Student
Daly City, California
4
Questions
Asked
3021 views
What are some skills to put on a resume as a college freshman with no work experience (For entry-level jobs)?
Thank you so much to anyone who answers, It would be a lot of help!
12 answers
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1879
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Camilla !
The only skills that you should put on a resume are the skills that you have experience in and know how to do. It is not going to help to ask what skills you should put on your resume from other people because you will have to evaluate what you are good at and have been doing for a while. Only you know your skills. A resume is a reflection of your experience, skills and education. The skills that you write on your resume should be things that you know how to do very well because the prospective employer will expect you to be able to do those skills independently.
Everyone has a first resume and you very well can write a resume without having any experience if that is the case because you want to know what skills to put on a resume. There are many samples of how people write their resume when they do not have any work history. I have left links below for you to see some samples. As you can see, you list your education, internships, volunteer experience and skills. Some skills that employers like to see are any computer programs that you know how to use, presentation or public speaking skills, report writing, customer service, child care and various other skills that would be helpful for the job you're applying for if you can do them well.
Always be truthful on your resume as it will reflect your true abilities and preparedness for the job. Many employers understand that you are seeking a first job and have no experience and provide on the job training for the particular position. Don't worry about it because we all have to start somewhere.
When you apply for Financial Aid every year at college, choose the Work Study option because that will be a way that you can get a job without a resume (possibly). Work Study is awarded to students as part of their financial aid package and you can select a job that is open on campus in your major department or any building where there are Work Study jobs. Visit the Student Center, Career Center or financial aid office on your campus to learn more about it for your specific college.
While you are at your campus Career Center, ask if there is someone there who can write your resume for you. If there is, they will interview you to discover every bit of experience you have and ask you questions to establish what skills you have that would be good for different jobs. Sometimes when you have little or no experience and a professional resume writer or a volunteer writes one for you, they can spark things that will suddenly have you realizing that you do have things to put on a resume. As time goes on, your resume will be easier to write. We've all been there.
I hope that my advice and the links below are helpful. Best wishes in all you do !
HOW TO WRITE A RESUME WITH NO EXPERIENCE https://novoresume.com/career-blog/resume-advice-for-students-with-no-experience
HOW TO MAKE A RESUME WITH NO EXPERIENCE (EXAMPLES) https://zety.com/blog/resume-with-no-work-experience
RESUME EXAMPLES https://www.beamjobs.com/resumes/high-school-student-resume-examples
The only skills that you should put on a resume are the skills that you have experience in and know how to do. It is not going to help to ask what skills you should put on your resume from other people because you will have to evaluate what you are good at and have been doing for a while. Only you know your skills. A resume is a reflection of your experience, skills and education. The skills that you write on your resume should be things that you know how to do very well because the prospective employer will expect you to be able to do those skills independently.
Everyone has a first resume and you very well can write a resume without having any experience if that is the case because you want to know what skills to put on a resume. There are many samples of how people write their resume when they do not have any work history. I have left links below for you to see some samples. As you can see, you list your education, internships, volunteer experience and skills. Some skills that employers like to see are any computer programs that you know how to use, presentation or public speaking skills, report writing, customer service, child care and various other skills that would be helpful for the job you're applying for if you can do them well.
Always be truthful on your resume as it will reflect your true abilities and preparedness for the job. Many employers understand that you are seeking a first job and have no experience and provide on the job training for the particular position. Don't worry about it because we all have to start somewhere.
When you apply for Financial Aid every year at college, choose the Work Study option because that will be a way that you can get a job without a resume (possibly). Work Study is awarded to students as part of their financial aid package and you can select a job that is open on campus in your major department or any building where there are Work Study jobs. Visit the Student Center, Career Center or financial aid office on your campus to learn more about it for your specific college.
While you are at your campus Career Center, ask if there is someone there who can write your resume for you. If there is, they will interview you to discover every bit of experience you have and ask you questions to establish what skills you have that would be good for different jobs. Sometimes when you have little or no experience and a professional resume writer or a volunteer writes one for you, they can spark things that will suddenly have you realizing that you do have things to put on a resume. As time goes on, your resume will be easier to write. We've all been there.
I hope that my advice and the links below are helpful. Best wishes in all you do !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Thank you for your reply! I will for sure keep in mind the things you have written.
Camilla
You are very welcome, Camilla !
Michelle M.
Elizabeth Salisbury
Software Development
3
Answers
Jacksonville, Florida
Updated
Elizabeth’s Answer
It's worth noting that your high school experiences carry significant weight, especially during your first year. Plus, any volunteer work you've done can be a fantastic addition to your resume, giving it that extra boost!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6175
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Camilla,
Soft Skills
As a college freshman with no work experience, it’s essential to highlight your soft skills on your resume. Soft skills are personal attributes that enable you to interact effectively and harmoniously with other people. Here are some soft skills to consider:
Communication: Clearly expressing ideas and information through written and verbal communication is vital in any job. Highlight any experience you have in public speaking, writing, or interpersonal communication.
Teamwork: Emphasize any group projects or activities where you collaborated with others to achieve a common goal. This skill is essential in most entry-level jobs.
Problem-solving: Highlight any instances where you demonstrated the ability to analyze a problem and come up with a solution. This skill is crucial in many industries, including technology, engineering, and business.
Adaptability: Showcasing your ability to adapt to new situations is vital in today’s fast-paced work environment. Highlight any experiences where you had to adjust to new environments or challenges quickly.
Education and Extracurricular Activities
As a college freshman, your education is one of your most significant assets. Highlight your academic achievements, such as your GPA, relevant coursework, and academic honors. You can also include any extracurricular activities that demonstrate your leadership, teamwork, or problem-solving skills. These activities can include:
Clubs and organizations: Involvement in clubs or organizations related to your major or career interests can demonstrate your passion and dedication. Highlight any leadership roles you held or accomplishments achieved while participating in these groups.
I
nternships: Even if they are unpaid or for academic credit, internships can provide valuable work experience that can set you apart from other candidates. Highlight any skills you gained or projects you completed during your internships.
Volunteer work: Volunteer work can demonstrate your commitment to giving back to your community while showcasing your skills and abilities. Highlight any volunteer experiences that align with the values or mission of the company you are applying to.
Technical Skills
Depending on the industry or job you are applying for, having specific technical skills can be a significant advantage. Here are some technical skills to consider:
Computer literacy: Basic computer skills such as Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) are essential in most entry-level jobs. Highlight your proficiency in these programs and any other relevant software applications.
Language skills: If you are fluent in multiple languages, this skill can be a valuable asset for many companies operating internationally. Highlight your language proficiency level and any relevant experience using these languages in professional settings.
Coding/Programming: If you have experience coding or programming, this skill can be particularly valuable in the tech industry. Highlight any relevant programming languages or projects you have completed using these skills.
Authoritative References Used:
What Are Soft Skills? Examples of Soft Skills.” The Balance Careers, https://www.thebalancecareers.com/soft-skills-list-2059631.
God Bless!
JC.
Soft Skills
As a college freshman with no work experience, it’s essential to highlight your soft skills on your resume. Soft skills are personal attributes that enable you to interact effectively and harmoniously with other people. Here are some soft skills to consider:
Communication: Clearly expressing ideas and information through written and verbal communication is vital in any job. Highlight any experience you have in public speaking, writing, or interpersonal communication.
Teamwork: Emphasize any group projects or activities where you collaborated with others to achieve a common goal. This skill is essential in most entry-level jobs.
Problem-solving: Highlight any instances where you demonstrated the ability to analyze a problem and come up with a solution. This skill is crucial in many industries, including technology, engineering, and business.
Adaptability: Showcasing your ability to adapt to new situations is vital in today’s fast-paced work environment. Highlight any experiences where you had to adjust to new environments or challenges quickly.
Education and Extracurricular Activities
As a college freshman, your education is one of your most significant assets. Highlight your academic achievements, such as your GPA, relevant coursework, and academic honors. You can also include any extracurricular activities that demonstrate your leadership, teamwork, or problem-solving skills. These activities can include:
Clubs and organizations: Involvement in clubs or organizations related to your major or career interests can demonstrate your passion and dedication. Highlight any leadership roles you held or accomplishments achieved while participating in these groups.
I
nternships: Even if they are unpaid or for academic credit, internships can provide valuable work experience that can set you apart from other candidates. Highlight any skills you gained or projects you completed during your internships.
Volunteer work: Volunteer work can demonstrate your commitment to giving back to your community while showcasing your skills and abilities. Highlight any volunteer experiences that align with the values or mission of the company you are applying to.
Technical Skills
Depending on the industry or job you are applying for, having specific technical skills can be a significant advantage. Here are some technical skills to consider:
Computer literacy: Basic computer skills such as Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) are essential in most entry-level jobs. Highlight your proficiency in these programs and any other relevant software applications.
Language skills: If you are fluent in multiple languages, this skill can be a valuable asset for many companies operating internationally. Highlight your language proficiency level and any relevant experience using these languages in professional settings.
Coding/Programming: If you have experience coding or programming, this skill can be particularly valuable in the tech industry. Highlight any relevant programming languages or projects you have completed using these skills.
Authoritative References Used:
What Are Soft Skills? Examples of Soft Skills.” The Balance Careers, https://www.thebalancecareers.com/soft-skills-list-2059631.
God Bless!
JC.
Eileen An
Intern
1
Answer
Jacksonville, Florida
Updated
Eileen’s Answer
As a college freshman, you can put down some high school experiences (clubs, sports, volunteering, leadership roles, etc.) as well as part-time jobs if you've had any. In the meantime, try to get involved with different clubs and organizations at college that you can replace the high school experiences with.
More things you can put on your resume include classes that are relevant to the field you are trying to enter, projects that you've completed (especially if you are pursuing computer science), GPA, and skills/certifications/awards that you have. Hobbies and interests are also good to include to show your personality.
More things you can put on your resume include classes that are relevant to the field you are trying to enter, projects that you've completed (especially if you are pursuing computer science), GPA, and skills/certifications/awards that you have. Hobbies and interests are also good to include to show your personality.
Himani Dittakavi
Technology
4
Answers
Cary, North Carolina
Updated
Himani’s Answer
What are the ideal abilities to include in a resume for a college freshman seeking entry-level jobs, particularly when they lack work experience?
Participate actively in numerous clubs during your freshman year and strive for leadership roles within these organizations. For instance, I held the role of Vice President of Administration in a business organization for women, which I included on my resume. This position often sparked interest during job interviews and provided me with valuable hands-on experience. Including any volunteer work, team projects, or extracurricular activities from high school can also enhance your resume, as they demonstrate skills such as teamwork and communication. When detailing any roles you've held, try to include quantifiable data in your descriptions.
Participate actively in numerous clubs during your freshman year and strive for leadership roles within these organizations. For instance, I held the role of Vice President of Administration in a business organization for women, which I included on my resume. This position often sparked interest during job interviews and provided me with valuable hands-on experience. Including any volunteer work, team projects, or extracurricular activities from high school can also enhance your resume, as they demonstrate skills such as teamwork and communication. When detailing any roles you've held, try to include quantifiable data in your descriptions.
Alexandra Veneck
Analyst
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Alexandra’s Answer
Any experience you have in leadership positions from clubs or organizations at school is great to add!
Michael Esposito
Director, Financial Reporting
22
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hello,
The first thing I'd say is that there will always be MANY people without work experience with the same question/concern you're having right now.
Now, obviously you'd want to frame some of these based on the job you're taking a closer look at, but try to identify the areas where you had measurable impact.
It could be to others, or even just yourself.
I was helping my nephew with his first resume and we zero'd in on areas like:
* I wanted to increase my grade in chemistry so I joined a study group
* I noticed I was mentally comfortable presenting to people/groups, but would get tripped up with the delivery. I would record myself explaining how to play board games and go back and listen to see how many umm's and like's I had said.
In general you want to give the potential employer ideas about how your dedication can be shaped for their specific needs.
The first thing I'd say is that there will always be MANY people without work experience with the same question/concern you're having right now.
Now, obviously you'd want to frame some of these based on the job you're taking a closer look at, but try to identify the areas where you had measurable impact.
It could be to others, or even just yourself.
I was helping my nephew with his first resume and we zero'd in on areas like:
* I wanted to increase my grade in chemistry so I joined a study group
* I noticed I was mentally comfortable presenting to people/groups, but would get tripped up with the delivery. I would record myself explaining how to play board games and go back and listen to see how many umm's and like's I had said.
In general you want to give the potential employer ideas about how your dedication can be shaped for their specific needs.
Kate Michelini
College
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Kate’s Answer
Hello there,
Absolutely, it's perfectly okay to include your high school activities since you're just stepping into college. This could also be a gentle nudge for you to join clubs and societies at your college. By doing so, you'll have more college-related experiences to add to your resume. Don't forget to list your skills, hobbies, and any certifications you have at the end of your resume.
I trust this advice will be beneficial to you!
Absolutely, it's perfectly okay to include your high school activities since you're just stepping into college. This could also be a gentle nudge for you to join clubs and societies at your college. By doing so, you'll have more college-related experiences to add to your resume. Don't forget to list your skills, hobbies, and any certifications you have at the end of your resume.
I trust this advice will be beneficial to you!
anahu d
10
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
anahu’s Answer
As a college freshman with no work experience, you can still create a compelling resume by emphasizing relevant skills, achievements, and activities that showcase your potential and readiness for entry-level jobs. Here are some skills and sections you can include on your resume:
### Skills to Include on Your Resume
1. **Academic Skills:**
- Highlight any specific coursework or projects relevant to the job you're applying for. For example, if you're applying for a data entry position, mention any courses in data analysis, statistics, or computer science.
2. **Technical Skills:**
- Include any technical skills you have, such as proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Google Suite, programming languages (e.g., Python, R), or familiarity with specific software relevant to the job.
3. **Communication Skills:**
- Even without work experience, you can demonstrate communication skills through activities such as public speaking, debate club, writing for the school newspaper, or participating in group projects.
4. **Organizational Skills:**
- Mention your ability to manage time effectively, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines. This could include balancing coursework, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments.
5. **Problem-Solving Skills:**
- Highlight instances where you identified a problem and implemented a solution, either in academic projects, group assignments, or personal initiatives.
6. **Adaptability/Flexibility:**
- Showcase your ability to adapt to new environments, learn quickly, and work effectively in diverse teams or settings.
7. **Leadership Skills:**
- Mention any leadership roles you've held in clubs, organizations, or volunteer activities. This could include being a team captain, club officer, or organizing events.
8. **Research Skills:**
- If applicable, mention any research projects you've been involved in, including methodology, data collection, analysis, and presentation of findings.
9. **Language Skills:**
- Fluency in multiple languages can be a valuable asset. Include any proficiency certifications if you have them.
### Sections to Include on Your Resume
1. **Education:**
- List your college or university, expected graduation date, GPA (if it's strong), and any relevant coursework related to the job.
2. **Projects:**
- Create a section for academic projects where you can detail specific assignments or research projects that demonstrate relevant skills (e.g., data analysis, programming, problem-solving).
3. **Extracurricular Activities:**
- Include clubs, organizations, sports teams, or volunteer work where you've been actively involved. Highlight leadership roles or significant contributions.
4. **Honors and Awards:**
- Mention any academic honors, scholarships, or awards you've received.
5. **Certifications and Courses:**
- If you've completed any relevant certifications or courses outside of your regular coursework (e.g., online courses, workshops), list them here.
6. **Skills Summary:**
- Consider adding a brief skills summary section at the top of your resume highlighting key skills and strengths that are relevant to the job you're applying for.
### Tips for Creating Your Resume
- **Tailor Each Resume:** Customize your resume for each job application by emphasizing skills and experiences that align with the job description.
- **Use Action Verbs:** Start bullet points with strong action verbs (e.g., organized, managed, developed) to describe your experiences and achievements.
- **Keep It Concise:** Since you're a college freshman with limited experience, aim for a one-page resume unless you have significant relevant experiences to highlight.
- **Proofread:** Check for typos, grammatical errors, and formatting consistency. Have someone else review your resume for feedback.
### Skills to Include on Your Resume
1. **Academic Skills:**
- Highlight any specific coursework or projects relevant to the job you're applying for. For example, if you're applying for a data entry position, mention any courses in data analysis, statistics, or computer science.
2. **Technical Skills:**
- Include any technical skills you have, such as proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Google Suite, programming languages (e.g., Python, R), or familiarity with specific software relevant to the job.
3. **Communication Skills:**
- Even without work experience, you can demonstrate communication skills through activities such as public speaking, debate club, writing for the school newspaper, or participating in group projects.
4. **Organizational Skills:**
- Mention your ability to manage time effectively, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines. This could include balancing coursework, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments.
5. **Problem-Solving Skills:**
- Highlight instances where you identified a problem and implemented a solution, either in academic projects, group assignments, or personal initiatives.
6. **Adaptability/Flexibility:**
- Showcase your ability to adapt to new environments, learn quickly, and work effectively in diverse teams or settings.
7. **Leadership Skills:**
- Mention any leadership roles you've held in clubs, organizations, or volunteer activities. This could include being a team captain, club officer, or organizing events.
8. **Research Skills:**
- If applicable, mention any research projects you've been involved in, including methodology, data collection, analysis, and presentation of findings.
9. **Language Skills:**
- Fluency in multiple languages can be a valuable asset. Include any proficiency certifications if you have them.
### Sections to Include on Your Resume
1. **Education:**
- List your college or university, expected graduation date, GPA (if it's strong), and any relevant coursework related to the job.
2. **Projects:**
- Create a section for academic projects where you can detail specific assignments or research projects that demonstrate relevant skills (e.g., data analysis, programming, problem-solving).
3. **Extracurricular Activities:**
- Include clubs, organizations, sports teams, or volunteer work where you've been actively involved. Highlight leadership roles or significant contributions.
4. **Honors and Awards:**
- Mention any academic honors, scholarships, or awards you've received.
5. **Certifications and Courses:**
- If you've completed any relevant certifications or courses outside of your regular coursework (e.g., online courses, workshops), list them here.
6. **Skills Summary:**
- Consider adding a brief skills summary section at the top of your resume highlighting key skills and strengths that are relevant to the job you're applying for.
### Tips for Creating Your Resume
- **Tailor Each Resume:** Customize your resume for each job application by emphasizing skills and experiences that align with the job description.
- **Use Action Verbs:** Start bullet points with strong action verbs (e.g., organized, managed, developed) to describe your experiences and achievements.
- **Keep It Concise:** Since you're a college freshman with limited experience, aim for a one-page resume unless you have significant relevant experiences to highlight.
- **Proofread:** Check for typos, grammatical errors, and formatting consistency. Have someone else review your resume for feedback.
Shirley L
Accountant
64
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Shirley’s Answer
Hi Camilla,
Looking for an entry-level job can be very difficult because your first job should help you obtain experience, but entry-level jobs require at least one year of work experience. Nonetheless, you have valuable skills:
1) Time Management: Did you balance extracurricular activities with your classes? If so, how were you able to find time to do both?
2) Project Management: Were you a team leader of a group project? Did you come up with a schedule, and ended up making adjustments? Were you able to deliver results? Focus on the impact of your leadership.
3) Computer Applications: Did you learn how to use Microsoft Excel or learn how to code using a programming language in high school? If not, browse through YouTube videos as a way to pick up a new skill.
Looking for an entry-level job can be very difficult because your first job should help you obtain experience, but entry-level jobs require at least one year of work experience. Nonetheless, you have valuable skills:
1) Time Management: Did you balance extracurricular activities with your classes? If so, how were you able to find time to do both?
2) Project Management: Were you a team leader of a group project? Did you come up with a schedule, and ended up making adjustments? Were you able to deliver results? Focus on the impact of your leadership.
3) Computer Applications: Did you learn how to use Microsoft Excel or learn how to code using a programming language in high school? If not, browse through YouTube videos as a way to pick up a new skill.
Bonnie Garza
Revenue Sales Operations VP
58
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Bonnie’s Answer
Hello Camilla, let's start by acknowledging that you're not the only one in this situation. It's quite common for many young adults to lack work experience before they graduate from college. One great option for you is to consider a work-study program on campus. This will provide you with valuable work experience, whether it's administrative, lab-based, or something else. Also, don't underestimate the value of including projects and activities on your resume. These can effectively demonstrate your sense of responsibility. Remember, entry-level positions are often designed for those with little to no experience, so employers understand that applicants may not have an extensive employment history. Keep your spirits high and good luck!
Ria Saraswat
Investment Banking
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Ria’s Answer
If you don't have any professional experience, it's good to list your high school activities (clubs, sports, academic honors, volunteering) and extrapolate skills you have developed as a result. If you have experience with programming, programming languages are often relevant skills to add. You can list soft skills as well, but make sure to have some tangible stories and experiences that can substantiate those.
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