Resume Guide 2.0: Land the Best Student Job!

Regardless of the position you're applying for, it's essential to have an updated resume in your toolkit—arm yourself with the resume tips from Y Generation Student Cooperative! 😉

The Format of Your Resume

We know that the Europass resume format is still popular in schools, but we recommend avoiding it. The same goes for the free templates available on major HR portals: think about it—if every student uses the same template, how will you stand out from the dozens of applicants? Instead, choose free tools that allow you to customize your document’s appearance.

A great tool for this is Canva, which you can use via Google or Facebook registration. It offers numerous templates, including those for resumes. You can choose from a variety of creative templates, making it easy to select a style that suits you and fill it in with the appropriate information.

What Should I Include in My Resume?

Let's start with what you shouldn’t include. Forget the long narratives like "I am John Doe, born on August 21, 2000, in Budapest, my mother’s name is XY, my father’s name is YX…” The function of a resume is to briefly and clearly show your future employer your educational background and any relevant work experience. Recruiters review many applications for each position and don't have time to read your entire life story. A good resume grabs and holds the reader’s attention at first glance.

The simplest approach is to divide your document into two columns, placing your educational details on one side and your work experience and other skills on the other. It’s important to list your details in reverse chronological order, with the most recent at the top (as this is likely the most relevant). Don’t forget to include your contact details so that your future employer can reach you if your application is successful. While not mandatory, we recommend including a photo to personalize your introduction and create a positive impression. This should be a simple, high-quality ID photo—save the beach bikini shots and weekend party pictures for your personal albums.

Must-Haves for Your Resume:

• High School Information: Name of the school and program (class, specialization), duration of the study
• University/College/OKJ Information: Name of the institution, field of study, duration of the study
• Work Experience: Name of the workplace and position, key responsibilities, duration of employment
• Language Skills: Specify the proficiency level (e.g., intermediate or advanced)
• Computer Skills: Specify programs you are proficient in (e.g., Microsoft Office, Adobe programs)
• Other Skills: Highlight your positive attributes (e.g., good team player, can work independently, patient, precise)
• Driver’s License: If applicable
• Interests: What you enjoy doing in your free time
• Date of Document Creation

If you are applying for multiple positions at the same time, it’s important to tailor your resume to each specific position. Different skills will be important for a financial position versus a tourism job, so always emphasize the experiences that make your resume more attractive to HR professionals.

Avoid These Mistakes

It’s natural to want to present your best self in a resume, but be careful not to overdo it. If your application impresses your potential employer, an interview will likely follow. It will become clear if you’ve exaggerated or included false information in your resume. For example, if advanced English proficiency is a requirement for a position, be prepared to demonstrate this skill in person. Embarrassing situations can arise if you wrote something in your resume that you can’t back up in real life. Avoid unnecessary pitfalls: be honest, objective, and show what you can do without exaggerating!

If you’re looking for the best student jobs, you’ve come to the right place! Click and check out our current student job offers!