How Long Should Your Common App Resume Be? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Not a Marathon)
You’re staring at your computer screen, surrounded by a sea of half-written essays and a looming Common App deadline. You’re thinking about your resume, that crucial document that’s supposed to showcase your awesomeness to college admissions officers. But a question lingers in your mind, like a persistent mosquito buzzing around your head: How long should this darn resume be?
Fear not, aspiring college student! We’re here to demystify the length of your Common App resume and give you the lowdown on how to make it impactful, without sending admissions officers into a coma.
The Short Answer: One Page, Maybe Two
Think of your Common App resume as a concise, attention-grabbing elevator pitch. You want to make a strong first impression, highlighting your best qualities and achievements. In the world of college applications, that means aiming for one page, with a maximum of two pages if absolutely necessary.
Why One Page? Because Time is Money (and Admissions Officers Have Limited Time)
Let’s face it, college admissions officers are swamped. They’re reading hundreds, if not thousands, of applications every year. They’re not gonna be poring over a four-page resume detailing every single school club you ever joined or every volunteer hour you logged. They want the highlights, the “I’m a rockstar” moments that make them sit up and take notice.
But What If I Have a Ton of Stuff to Include?
We get it. You’re a busy bee, buzzing with accomplishments. You’ve been the president of your debate club, a star athlete, and a volunteer extraordinaire. But remember, quality over quantity is the name of the game.
Think of your resume as a curated art exhibition. You wouldn’t cram every single piece you’ve ever created into a tiny gallery, would you? No, you’d pick the best, most impactful pieces that showcase your unique artistic vision. The same principle applies to your resume.
Focus on the Big Stuff
Don’t get hung up on every single extracurricular activity or volunteer project. Prioritize your leadership roles, achievements with tangible results, and experiences that highlight your skills and passions.
Here’s a breakdown of what to include (and what to leave out):
Include:
- Leadership positions: Were you captain of the soccer team? President of your student council? Highlight these roles and emphasize the skills you developed (e.g., teamwork, communication, problem-solving).
- Awards and accomplishments: Did you win a science fair? Receive a national merit scholarship? Brag about it!
- Unique experiences: Did you intern at a research lab? Participate in a global exchange program? These experiences show your drive and initiative.
- Relevant skills: Are you proficient in coding? A master of public speaking? Don’t be shy about showcasing your skills.
Leave Out:
- Basic extracurricular activities: Unless you held a leadership position or achieved something significant, you don’t need to list every club you joined.
- Every single volunteering hour: Focus on your most impactful volunteer experiences, not just the number of hours you clocked.
- Generic statements: Avoid clichés like “team player” or “hard worker.” Show, don’t tell, with concrete examples.
- High school grades: Your GPA is already on your transcript.
Remember, Your Resume is a Supplement
Don’t think of your resume as your only chance to impress. The Common App provides ample opportunities to showcase your personality, achievements, and interests through essays, extracurricular activities lists, and recommendation letters.
Think of your resume as a supporting act, adding depth and detail to the main performance.
Making Your Resume Shine: Tips for Success
- Use strong action verbs: Instead of “Worked as a tutor,” say “Tutored students in mathematics.”
- Quantify your achievements: Instead of “Organized school events,” say “Organized five school events, raising $1,000 for charity.”
- Use keywords: Research the keywords used by colleges and admissions officers.
- Proofread meticulously: Typos and grammatical errors are a big no-no.
Finally, Relax and Trust Your Instincts
Sure, the Common App process can be stressful, but remember, you’ve got this! Don’t get bogged down by the “how long” question. Focus on creating a resume that genuinely reflects your personality, skills, and achievements.
And if you’re still feeling lost in the resume jungle, don’t hesitate to seek help! Talk to your guidance counselor, teachers, or even a college admissions consultant.
Good luck, and remember, your resume is just one piece of the puzzle. Let your personality and passion shine through, and you’ll be well on your way to college acceptance.
Need more help with your Common App resume or any other aspect of the college application process? Join the JobLoving community – a supportive network of students, parents, and educators ready to offer guidance and encouragement.