What's the deal with a resumé?

I’m hearing a lot of people say that it’s recommended you submit a resume for schools you’re applying to. I know a lot of colleges have a place on the app where you can upload one, but I have no plan on doing so at this point, since I feel like I’ve explained most of my accomplishments in the activities, honors, and additional info section.

What’s the general norm regarding this? Do most students applying submit a resume? If so, why? It’s basically just a list of your accomplishments/achievements, so I’m sure it would be quite a pain for an admissions officer to re-read everything all over again.

You’re exactly right - they don’t want to re-read. If you choose to include a resume, it needs to contain NEW information - not achievements that are already discussed elsewhere in your app. I only chose to submit a resume because I had several jobs throughout HS and during my gap year.

The resume is optional for a reason: HS students typically don’t have a ton of stuff to put on a resume, and that’s totally fine. Stick to a solid description of your activities and accomplishments in the appropriate sections, and you’ll do great!

^^^ I agree with the above.

Keep in mind that the AO will probably spend 15 minutes on your app. Anything they read needs to have value. A resume may water down your accomplishments or detract from other parts of your app. I feel the same way when I hear people sending in 5 letters of rec (not to get off topic, but same result). Bottom line, if it offers something new and worthwhile, add it.

Good luck.

Unless a college specifies a resume, you do not need to submit one. Agree with the others.