College Student Resume Example: Summary Statement Included
Creating a resume as a college student can be overwhelming. With limited work experience and a desire to stand out among other job applicants, it’s important to craft a strong summary statement to catch the attention of potential employers. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about crafting an effective summary statement, from what it is to how to write one that showcases your strengths and achievements.
What is a summary statement?
A summary statement, also known as a career objective or personal statement, is a brief introduction at the top of your resume that highlights your experience, skills, and career goals. It’s typically 2-3 sentences long and serves as a quick pitch to grab the attention of hiring managers.
Why is a summary statement important?
A strong summary statement can set the tone for the rest of your resume and help you stand out from other applicants. It gives potential employers a quick snapshot of your qualifications and career goals, and can help you make a positive first impression.
How to write an effective summary statement
1. Tailor your statement to the job you’re applying for
Read the job description carefully and identify the key skills and qualifications the employer is looking for. Use this information to craft a summary statement that specifically addresses the needs of the job. This shows the employer that you’ve taken the time to understand the position and are a good fit for the role.
2. Highlight your relevant experience and skills
Your summary statement should showcase your most relevant experience and skills. Use strong action verbs to describe your accomplishments and show how you’ve made an impact in previous roles. Avoid generic statements and focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your abilities.
3. Keep it concise and focused
A summary statement should be brief and to the point. Keep it focused on your career goals and the skills and experience you can bring to the job. Avoid filler words and unnecessary information that doesn’t add value.
4. Use keywords
Many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes for specific keywords. Make sure your summary statement includes relevant keywords from the job description to increase your chances of getting past the ATS and getting noticed by hiring managers.
5. Show your personality
While it’s important to be professional in your summary statement, don’t be afraid to show your personality and let your passion for your field shine through. This can help you stand out from other applicants and show that you’re a good fit for the company culture.
Example summary statements
Here are a few examples of strong summary statements for college students:
- Marketing intern: Results-driven marketing intern with experience in social media management and content creation. Passionate about utilizing data-driven strategies to increase brand awareness and engagement. Seeking a position that will allow me to apply my skills and gain valuable experience in the marketing field.
- Finance intern: Detail-oriented finance intern with experience in financial analysis and modeling. Proficient in Excel and experienced in creating financial reports and forecasts. Seeking a position where I can utilize my skills and learn from experienced professionals in the finance industry.
- Graphic design intern: Creative and innovative graphic design intern with experience in Adobe Creative Suite. Skilled in creating visually appealing designs for print and digital media. Seeking a position where I can apply my design skills and collaborate with a team of talented creatives.
Conclusion
A well-crafted summary statement can make all the difference in catching the attention of potential employers and landing your dream job. By tailoring your statement to the job you’re applying for, highlighting your relevant experience and skills, and showing your personality, you can create a strong introduction that sets you apart from other applicants.
FAQs
What should I include in my summary statement?
You should include your most relevant experience and skills, as well as your career goals and what you can bring to the job. Make sure to tailor your statement to the job you’re applying for and use keywords from the job description.
How long should my summary statement be?
Your summary statement should be 2-3 sentences long. Keep it brief and focused on your most important qualifications.
Should I include a summary statement on my resume?
Yes, a summary statement is an important part of your resume and can help you stand out from other applicants. It gives potential employers a quick snapshot of your qualifications and career goals.
Can I use the same summary statement for every job I apply for?
No, you should tailor your summary statement to each job you apply for. This shows the employer that you’ve taken the time to understand the position and are a good fit for the role.
How do I make my summary statement stand out?
To make your summary statement stand out, focus on specific accomplishments and use strong action verbs to describe your skills and experience. Show your personality and passion for your field, and make sure to include relevant keywords from the job description.
Sarah Thompson
Sarah Thompson is a career development expert with a passion for helping individuals achieve their professional goals. With over a decade of experience in the field, Sarah specializes in providing practical advice and guidance on job search strategies, cover letters, resumes, and interview techniques. She believes in empowering job seekers with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the competitive job market successfully.