<p>Is this really optional, or should 12th grader definitely create a resume? Is it just an expansion of the activities list part of the common application? My husband thinks the resume is intended just for nontraditional/returning students, not for 17 year olds. Any guidance definitely appreciated.</p>
<p>In the life of college apps, if it says “optional,” then it really is not optional if you are really interested in the school.
As for what to include: awards, ECs, paid work, volunteer work, community services, hobbies, interests etc. Yes, it’s basically and expansion of the activities list of the common app. Keep the descriptions short and sweet, meaning that if the title is self-explanatory, then it does not need much explanation which will make the “resume” read faster.</p>
<p>Honest it depends. Tufts finally got rid of their optional essays, because they couldn’t persuade applicants that optional meant optional. In the case of a resume, it is an opportunity to expand on the aggravating tiny activity boxes on the Common Application.</p>
<p>Optional ESSAY is not the same as resume. If the college says “resume” is optional, and your kid truly has more to explain than they can fit in the Common App space, then it it okay. If it is just repeat of what is in the Common App already, then don’t do it. Optional ESSAYs should always be done. </p>
<p>Thanks inparent. I know essays must be done. This is specifically about the resume. </p>
<p>I agree that if the Common App has enough space to include important activities, no need to do a resume in a supplement. Is there something important omitted by using only the Common App boxes?</p>
<p>I remember my kids didn’t worry about leaving out some activities on the Common App. They wanted to give a general impression of their interests and work.</p>
<p>But if they had put many years into music, or dance, or had created a business, something like that, then a resume was needed (for instance, a dancer would list teachers, choreopraphers worked with, date and locations of performances w/descriptions etc. And a DVD, letters of recommendation from teachers, that kind of thing as well.)</p>
<p>Resume is good for interviews. My kid’s GC encouraged students to have a resume. For adults, we usually put job experience on top. In a young student’s case, emphasis should be on academic and ECs. I would list some important courses he/she has taken, research, and go into more detail on main ECs. As an example, my kid danced most of her life, so she listed summer programs she attended and solos she did. </p>
<p>They’ll spend maybe 15 or so minutes on each read- do you need to distract them with a resume that rehashes the EC section? No. Unless there is something special to elaborate on. But remember, activities are not just about high school clubs. </p>