How to Write a Student Athlete Resume
I have to admit, I have a soft spot for college and student athletes. Having been one myself, and having many student athlete friends, I understand the challenges one faces when it comes to career planning or writing a student athlete resume.
All of a student athlete’s time outside of class is devoted to his or her sport leaving little time to think about or plan for the future. Then, before they know it, the college days are over. Many are left wondering how to write a student athlete resume that will appeal to an employer in the job search. If you are wondering, “Do you put college athlete on resume?” I’ll answer this question and more!
Gaps that Often Exist on a College Athlete Resume
It can be a bit harder to help assist in the writing process with a student athlete resume. Why? Because these individuals’ schedules are so consumed by their sports that they typically have little time for other activities. As a result, many athletes struggle to think of relevant content for a resume.
Here are some common issues athletes face when writing a resume.
- Lack of Experience – An athlete’s schedule is so consumed with class, practice, weights, and games that little time usually remains for career planning and/or part-time work. It is not uncommon for an athlete to reach graduation without much work experience because their sport has been like a job for so many years.
- Uncertainty about a Career Path – Being a successful student athlete requires a tremendous amount of dedication and focus. While other students have the time and space to engage in career exploration, an athlete often does not. I have worked with a number of student athletes in my career who are nearing graduation and have uncertainty about their career path. Their focus has been required elsewhere. If this is something you can relate with, I would love to chat with you about career planning!
- Emphasis on Achievements – Many student athletes begin by listing a plethora of athletic achievements on their resume. Is this wrong? Not necessarily; however, many employers will not understand what that achievement means or be able to directly relate it to their organization, business, or available role.
Now that the common gaps have been identified, let’s look at what we can do to fill them on a student athlete resume.
Skills & Attributes to Highlight on a Student Athlete Resume
I have some great tips for content on a student athlete resume. By implementing the items below, you can take your resume from generic and athletic-focused to industry-relevant.
- Emphasize your education – if you can relate with the lack of job and internship experience noted above, simply spend more time and space emphasizing your education on your resume. You can do this by including a list of relevant coursework that would be appealing to the job for which you are applying or emphasizing large projects (such as a capstone project).
- Highlight your soft skills – when employers hire new grads, they seek the right fit in terms of work ethic, personality, and innate characteristics. Rather than listing out your athletic achievements, translate those to skills you demonstrated so it is relevant for the employer. For example, instead of listing “Team Captain” on your resume, elaborate and emphasize a skill set. “Developed leadership skills and demonstrated the ability to calmly make decisions under pressure as Team Captain.”
- Include strong references – If you still feel like your student athlete resume is lacking an industry focus or has white space remaining, consider adding three, strong references at the bottom. References should only be used if extra space remains (don’t exclude other content just to provide reference information). Strong references, especially professors, people you know in the industry, etc. can help increase your credibility and provide connections that can help you acquire the interview.
College Athlete Resume Help
Implementing the three items above on your resume can definitely help student athletes stand out in a sea of other applicants! If you want professional help writing a student athlete resume, you can book a free consultation to learn more about my resume writing and revision services. I also offer assistance to student athletes throughout their job search!
Don’t let starting your career intimidate you! As a student athlete, you have so much to offer a company. Let’s work together to get your career started and continue your success! Are you interested in professional help? Send your resume to me and I’ll provide a list of revisions and examples to help you strengthen your professional resume! Get expert eyes on your resume to ensure you get the interview!
More Helpful Guides for Student Athletes
- How to Write a LinkedIn Profile for Student Athletes
- Writing a Standout Cover Letter as a Student Athlete
- Case Study Examples of Student-Athlete Resumes
- The Key to Communicating Athletic Experience in a Job Interview
Want help with your resume or job search?
I sit down with students and young professionals one-on-one with their career endeavors! Whether you want tailored resume help or assistance finding and landing your dream job, I can help!
Book a free consultation today!
