How to Write a Resume for a College Internship

How to Write an Internship Resume That Gets You Hired

Landing a college internship? Huge for your career! Your resume is your first impression – it's make-or-break. This guide will help you write a resume that gets you interviews. We'll cover everything: formatting, content, showing off your achievements, and tailoring it to each internship.

1. Pick the Right Resume Format

Before you start writing, choose a format. There are three main types:

1. Chronological Resume: Lists your work experience and education, newest first. Best if you have a steady work history. This is usually the best for internships.
2. Functional Resume: Focuses on your skills, not your work history. Use this if you don't have much work experience or are changing careers. Less common for internships.
3. Combination Resume: Mixes both! Shows your skills then lists your experience. Good if you have some experience but want to highlight skills first.

For most internships, a chronological resume is easiest to understand.

2. Make Your Contact Info Easy to Find

Keep it simple and clear:

• Your Full Name (Use a professional font)
• Phone Number
• Email Address (Use a professional email address, not party_animal88@...)
• LinkedIn Profile URL (Optional, but really helpful)
• Location (City, State – skip your full address)

3. Write a Great Summary or Objective Statement

This is your hook! An objective statement is for entry-level folks. A summary statement is for those with more experience.

Objective Statement (Limited Experience):

Example: "Highly motivated pre-med student seeking a summer internship in medical research. I want to gain practical experience and contribute to important research projects. I'm skilled in [mention relevant skills]."

Summary Statement (Some Experience):

Example: "Results-oriented student with experience in [relevant field]. I'm looking for a challenging internship in [field] to use my skills in [mention skills] and help the company achieve [mention company goals]."

4. Show Off Your Skills!

List your skills logically (like Technical Skills, Communication Skills, Soft Skills).

Examples:

• Technical Skills: Programming languages (Python, Java, C++), software (Excel, SPSS, R, Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office Suite)
• Communication Skills: Writing, speaking, presentations, listening
• Soft Skills: Teamwork, problem-solving, time management, critical thinking, adaptability, leadership

Match the skills to the internship description.

5. Highlight Your Experience (Even if it's not a "job")

Even volunteer work counts! Use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result. Use numbers to show your impact ("Increased sales by 15%," "Managed a team of 5").

Example:

Volunteer at Local Animal Shelter

• I helped care for animals (feeding, cleaning, socializing).

• I created a new fundraising plan that increased donations by 20%.

6. Your Education Section

Include:

• University Name
• Degree
• Major(s) and Minor(s)
• Expected Graduation Date
• GPA (If it's above 3.5)
• Relevant Coursework (Helpful if it relates to the internship)

7. Awards and Honors (Optional)

Got any awards or scholarships? List them! It shows you're awesome.

8. Proofread! Seriously.

Check for typos and grammar mistakes. Have a friend look it over too. A clean resume shows you pay attention to detail.

9. Tailor Your Resume to Each Internship

Don't use the same resume for every job. Read the description carefully and adjust your resume to match the keywords and requirements. This shows you're interested!

10. Use a Professional-Looking Template

A good template makes your resume look great. Choose a clean, modern template that's easy to read, but not too flashy.

Keyword Optimization

Use keywords from the internship description. Include them naturally in your skills, experience, and summary/objective sections. Don't overdo it!

Job Search Tips

Here's some extra advice:

• Network! Go to career fairs, connect with people on LinkedIn, and reach out to alumni.
• Practice your interviewing skills. Prepare for common questions.
• Follow up! After you send your resume, send a quick email showing you're still interested.
• Be persistent! Job hunting is tough. Don't give up!

Following these tips will greatly improve your chances of landing that internship. Good luck! Remember to stay organized, be persistent, and show off your best self!