Creating a strong resume with limited work experience can feel challenging, but there are many ways to showcase your qualifications even if you're just starting your career. Employers understand that entry-level candidates won't have extensive professional histories, and they're looking for potential as much as experience.

1. Emphasize Education

As a recent graduate, your education section should be prominent. Include:

• Your degree and major
• University name and graduation date
• Relevant coursework (especially if it relates directly to the job)
• Academic honors or awards
• GPA (if 3.0 or higher)

2. Highlight Relevant Projects

Academic projects, research papers, or class assignments can demonstrate your skills and knowledge. Describe projects that required skills the employer is seeking, and emphasize your specific contributions and results.

3. Include All Work Experience

Even if your jobs weren't in your target industry, they likely helped you develop transferable skills. Retail jobs teach customer service, teamwork, and problem-solving. Restaurant work demonstrates multitasking and working under pressure. Focus on the skills you developed rather than just the tasks you performed.

4. Showcase Extracurricular Activities

Clubs, sports teams, volunteer work, and student organizations can all demonstrate valuable skills. Leadership roles are particularly impressive to employers. For example, serving as treasurer of a club shows financial responsibility, while organizing events demonstrates project management skills.

5. List Technical Skills

Create a skills section that includes both hard and soft skills. Include software programs you're proficient in, languages you speak, and any technical skills relevant to your field. Don't underestimate 'basic' computer skills - many employers are surprised by how many recent graduates aren't proficient with Excel or other common programs.

6. Use Action Verbs

Start each bullet point with a strong action verb like 'managed,' 'created,' 'analyzed,' or 'implemented.' Avoid passive language and vague terms like 'helped with' or 'assisted in.'