What Should I Put on My First Resume?

The essential sections to include on a first resume when you have little or no formal work experience.


On a first resume, focus on the strongest evidence you do have: contact information, a short summary, education, projects, coursework, volunteer work, skills, and any part-time or informal work.

If you do not have much job history yet, projects, certifications, and school achievements matter more. A class project, club role, freelance task, or volunteer activity can all help show initiative and transferable skills.

The goal of a first resume is not to look senior. The goal is to show potential, reliability, and relevance for the kind of role you want next.