good objective for resume high school

10 High School Student Resume Objective Examples

As a high school student embarking on your professional life, you should not overstate the importance of a well-written resume.

As the first section of your resume, the objective statement serves as a brief introduction and a powerful encapsulation of your energetic potential and passion.

Below are 10 excellent objective examples you can use on your resume as a high school student.

Each is crafted to assist you in leveraging your strengths and goals to create a lasting impression in a competitive job marketplace.

Through these carefully constructed examples, you can learn how to effectively combine your ambitions with a professional demeanor, ensuring that your resume stands out as a dynamic invitation for potential employers.

10 Exemplary Resume Objectives for High School Students

Crafting an Outstanding Objective for a High School Student Resume

Writing an impressive resume objective for a high school student can set the foundation for a favorable impression among potential employers. Here’s a concise guide to crafting an exceptional resume objective:

1. Clarity and Brevity:

• Keep your objective compact, using a sentence or two to underline the primary skills and aspirations you bring to the table.

2. Personalization is Key:

• Construct your resume objective with the specific role or internship in mind, ensuring alignment with the prospective organization’s requirements and culture.

3. Your strengths in the Spotlight:

• Emphasize the personal abilities and knowledge pertinent to the job, from scholastic success to relevant extracurricular activities.

4. Use Action-Oriented Language:

• Initiate your objective with powerful verbs that command attention, presenting yourself as a candidate of action and determination.

5. Show Enthusiasm:

• Let your genuine excitement for the industry or field shine through, showing potential employers your zeal and readiness to engage and learn.

To enhance your objective, ensure it reflects your unique experiences and goals. Remember to revise your objective for each job application, targeting it to the specific role and company.

Reader Reviews and Comments

“These examples are incredibly helpful! I’m updating my resume for a summer job, and these objectives align perfectly with my experiences and aspirations.”

“Thank you for this post! I was struggling to express my goals in my resume, and these examples gave me the direction I needed.”

“The clarity and brevity tips were game-changers for me. My resume objective had been a bit too long, and now it feels much more concise and impactful.”

Michael R.:

“Fantastic resource for any high school student starting out in the job market. The action-oriented language suggestions made my objective pop!”

“I appreciate the emphasis on personalizing the resume objective. It really helped me tailor my resume to the specific job I’m applying for.”

“Great post! The examples and tips provided are practical and easy to adopt. I feel much more confident about my resume now.”

“Loved this! The step-by-step guide on crafting a high school student resume objective was exactly what I needed. Thanks for the clear advice!”

• 21 High School Teacher Resume Objective Examples
• 10 High School Student No Experience Resume Summary Examples
• 8 High School Science Teacher Resume Objective Examples
• 15 School Coordinator Resume Objective Examples

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18 High School Student Resume Examples Created for 2024

High school student resume.

• High School Student Resumes by Experience
• High School Student Resumes by Role

High school is one of the best times of your life, but it can also be one of the most difficult when looking for your first or second job. You’ve got to fill out applications, prep for interviews, and write your resume.

Using ChatGPT for resumes  is a cool idea, but can still feel daunting and overwhelming. We’ve all been there, and what you really need is a free AI resume builder and solid student cover letters to get you on your way.

We’ve analyzed countless high school resumes to discover  what would get students job interviews in 2024 . While you may want to start with a simple  resume outline , keep reading to find 18 high school resume samples (plus writing tips) that are jam-packed with essential techniques and tricks.

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• If you choose to use a template, make sure you adjust the  resume’s formatting  so that your text is big enough to read with one-inch margins on the side.
• However, you should write your bullet points like you would for a job. Highlight any responsibilities and accomplishments relevant to the job you’re applying for now.
• For example, if you’re looking for a job in sales, emphasize your ability to work in groups and create a good customer experience.

High School Student No Experience Resume

• If you don’t have work history, include projects and volunteer work instead. Treat them like a job and write bullet points according to your responsibilities.
• Make sure you start every bullet point with active verbs, and always double-check for typos. You’ve got this!
• Include your unique skills, your desired position, and the company you hope to work for to make your objective stand out from the rest!

First Job High School Student Resume

• To remedy that problem, add a  skills section on your resume  to give hiring managers an important overview of your strengths.
• To really highlight your abilities, incorporate the same skills in your work experience, too. Demonstrate how you used your skills to better your workplace, and you can’t go wrong!
• Adding stylistic elements like color and different fonts can help you show a bit of your personality (and make your resume more fun to read). 

Experienced High School Student Resume

• Remember, your resume is a highlight reel, so you need to include what’s most important (like your achievements and relevant metrics). 
• You can adjust your layout, font sizes, and margins, but keep it easy to read. 
• Use a bit of color and some fun fonts, provided it still looks professional. You’ve got this!

High School Senior Resume

• This statement must align with the potential employer’s needs, proving you understand the job requirements and have gone the extra mile to address doubts about your capabilities. As for experiences that might have prepared you for the job, workshops and volunteering programs you’ve participated in are prominent candidates.

Out of High School Resume

• Leisure activities range from soccer, hiking, drawing and sketching, robotics, and photography to journalism. But how do they fit in the picture? Well, a penchant for drawing and sketching could reflect creativity and an eye for detail, while journalism stints could hint at strong communication and critical thinking.

High School Graduate Resume

• Right from the first line of the career objective, you can see the candidate’s passion and willingness to work in this field. Notice how Serai’s love for photography is clearly backed by a previous project for a school newspaper.
• These details will be perfect when Serai’s ready for the AI cover letter generator to bring her application to perfection.

High School Diploma Resume

• In the education section of your high school diploma resume, include your diploma, the school’s name, and your start and end date. Add some useful software skills to the mix to secure your seat in any undergraduate program.

Recent High School Graduate Resume

• Begin with clearing which stream and degree you want to pursue. Next, follow suit with your mission and what you hope to gain by completing the program. Try some more personalization by linking your career goal with the college’s agenda.

High School Student Scholarship Resume

• Your high school student scholarship resume should vividly show your positive contributions to noble causes, such as offering ADLs to seniors, and emphasize your impact on society.

High School Student College Application Resume

• Ensure your high school student college application resume shows your practical and classwork achievements that emphasize your grand vision to make a positive contribution to society.

High School Student for College Resume

• Before hitting “submit,” always  check your resume  for typos and other minor errors. It’s amazing what you can miss during your first few reviews.
• A good GPA can demonstrate, at least in part, your willingness to work hard. We’d recommend including your GPA only if it’s above 3.5, but anything above a 3 is a good average.

High School Student for Customer Service Resume

• Including projects, volunteer work, or club memberships is a great way to add value to your resume.
• Your resume should focus on your abilities and other activities you’ve engaged in that will show your value.
• Read the responsibilities and qualifications to look for key skills and tasks. Then, incorporate some of those skills and responsibilities into your high school student customer service resume.

High School Student Internship Resume

• For example, if the job description lists responsibilities like writing and analyzing data, include “written communication” and “data analysis” in your skills section.
• One easy way to customize your resume is by focusing your  resume skills  on things that apply to the internship. 
• Make sure you keep your resume professional and to the point. You don’t want to include anything too personal about your beliefs, religion, politics, or personal information.
• For example, you can list “volunteering at local church,” but avoid saying “fasting every weekend.” It doesn’t show off relevant skills and is a bit too forward for a resume.

High School Student Office Worker Resume

• Good projects include anything that demonstrates your leadership abilities or desire for knowledge. Senior projects, personal blogs, or even being on a sports team are all good examples to include!
• Add work experience directly under your contact information and name, then add any relevant projects if you’re low on space. 
• While there are plenty of  resume writing tips , your resume should be as unique as you. Don’t get so caught up in what you think you “should” do that your resume is bland and cookie-cutter. 

High School Student Sales Resume

• Numbers demonstrate your value, and they’re useful tools for the Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) software that hiring managers use to sort through job applicants.
• Trust us, and incorporate metrics into at least 80% of your bullet points!
• For example, you know that different  resume templates  can change your resume’s appearance, but different templates can also stretch or streamline your content. 
• Mess with multiple templates to see what your content will look like—you may find a template that allows for more room, or one that allows you to highlight your skills better.

High School Student Athlete  Resume

• Think of a time you proved you were the MVP on your team—Did you lead your team to a championship? Perhaps you made the game-winning shot in a crucial, nail-biting game?

High School Student Music Resume

• When you include hobbies like songwriting or your interest in classical music in your high school student music resume , it conveys to your recruiter that you’re super dedicated and passionate about your craft.
• You can also include hobbies that are different, too. For example, if you enjoy experimenting with new recipes from around the world, that can show you’re ready to give new genres a whirl or that you understand that music—while art—is still supposed to be fun and adventuresome.

Related resume guides

• Entry Level

High School Resume - How-To Guide for 2024 [11+ Samples]

Whether you’re preparing your college application, applying for an internship, or looking for a part-time job, you’ll notice that every single place is asking for your resume. 

You sit down, work on your resume for an hour, trying to come up with what you can include.

And all you end up with is the name of the high school you’re attending.

“What gives?” you wonder.

“What else can I add to my resume, when I have zero work experience?”

That’s a more than valid concern and it’s exactly what we’re going to discuss in this article! 

We’re going to tell you exactly what to write so that your resume is as convincing as any other (even with zero work experience). 

• What to include in a high school resume
• 4 Free high school templates you can use
• A real-life high school resume example
• FAQ on high school resumes

Let’s start with the question you’ve been repeatedly asking yourself:

What to Include in My High School Resume?

At the end of the day, resumes are about showing an employer that you are the right person for the job. 

You want to show you’re a competent, passionate, and responsible individual, with the right skills to get the job done.

Well, work experience isn’t the only way to convince recruiters of that. 

Instead, you can focus on the following sections:

• #1. Contact Information - This is where you write down your personal and contact information (no surprise there) like first and last name, phone number, e-mail address, or links to other profiles.
• #2. Resume Objective - In 3-4 sentences, you should be able to describe your career goals and aspirations as well as list your skills.
• #3. Education - As you probably guessed, this is where you list your education history and relevant certifications.
• #4. Extracurricular Activities - These include participation in high school clubs, competitive events, and volunteer work.
• #5. Projects & Gigs - You can mention relevant projects you have participated in, as well as any internships.
• #6. Work Experience (optional) - If you don’t have any work experience, you can mention apprenticeships or volunteer work instead.
• #7. Languages - Language skills are always a plus for your application.
• #8. Hobbies & Interests - These offer some insight into your personality and can show that you’re passionate and interested in the industry.

As you can see, there’s a lot that can go into your resume to make up for the missing work experience. 

Now, we’ll dive into each of these sections in detail and teach you how to do each of them right!

So, let’s start with:

#1. Contact Information

The contact information isn’t too hard to pull off.

Here’s what you need to include here:

• First and Last Name
• Phone Number
• Email Address

Make sure to use a professional email address , something like: [email protected]. Using your middle school [email protected] account will not leave the right impression. 

#2. Resume Objective

A resume objective is a 3-4 sentence statement of your skills, achievements, and career goals . 

Think of it as a short summary of why you’re applying for this specific position and why you’d be a good candidate for it.

You should try your best to link this summary to the role you are applying for. 

For example, if you’re applying for a position as a sales associate, you should make a point of your good social skills, proficiency in math, and teamwork skills.

Let’s have a look at a concrete example of a resume objective for this case:

Hard-working, responsible high school student looking to contribute a positive and collaborative attitude in the retail field. Math-oriented individual with good attention to detail.

#3. Education

In a typical resume, this comes after the work experience section. 

For a high school resume, though, you’d want to do it the other way around, since you want to put more focus on your academic achievements.

This section will most probably consist of only one entry: your high school education. 

Here’s how you can format your education section:

• Name of the Degree
• Name of the Institution
• Years Attended
• GPA (if above 3.5)
• Honors (if applicable)
• Relevant Courses

High School Diploma (Honor Roll)

AB High School

09/2015 - 06/2019

• Relevant courses: AP Calculus, Statistics, Leadership

#4. Extracurricular Activities

Now, this section could be one of your biggest selling points. 

Even if you have a not-so-special GPA, extracurriculars can turn your resume around. These activities are typically school-related, like participation in clubs or student societies. 

Involvement in such, especially in leadership positions like club president or team captain, shows you are sociable and active in your pursuits. 

When listing your extracurricular activities, you should format each entry like this:

Student Body Treasurer

Student Government, AB High School

• Managed the student council’s funds and expenses, kept financial records, and worked with the president and vice president to create budgets and allot funds for clubs and events.
• Participated in organizing student activities like dances, spirit weeks, community service, and fundraising movements and assemblies.

#5. Projects & Gigs

Here you can mention (or even link to) any independent projects you’ve worked on - something you’ve done on the side, unrelated to academics. 

This could be a personal project, small business or startup, side-gig, blog, etc.

Such activities add a lot of value to your resume. They show you’re a self-starter and that’s a quality that’s very much appreciated in any role and industry.

Neighborhood Book Club 

2019 - Present

• Founded a local book club, initially for my friends, and later for all the teenagers of my neighborhood.
• Prepared a monthly book calendar for the club, combining trending, relevant, and classic books.
• Organized weekly meetings to discuss the progress on the books and our thoughts upon finishing them.

#6. Work Experience (Optional)

If you have some work experience, awesome! Here’s how you’d format it on your high school resume:

• Company Name
• Dates Employed
• Achievements & Responsibilities

Sandwich Artist

Joe’s Sandwich Emporium

06/2020 - 09/2020

• Prepared several types of sandwiches for customers.
• Promoted new products on the menu directly to customers.
• Worked with the cash register.
• Interacted with dozens of customers on a daily basis.

If you don’t have any work experience, though, worry not! You can always replace it with another “Other” section.

Volunteer work, for example, is another great addition to your resume. If you also have any informal work experiences like babysitting or dog walking, you should include them in the section. 

Even if you didn’t get a paycheck out of that work, such experiences show you are skilled and reliable. 

For example, an entry for volunteering experience can look like this:

Educational Team Member

Save the Children

2018 - Present

• Assisted in giving weekly art history and drawing lessons to children at the local orphanage
• Helped organize visits at local museums and art galleries

#7. Language skills

Are you bilingual or can speak another language apart from your native one?

Make sure to mention it on your high school resume!

Wherever you might be applying, you can rest assured that they’re going to appreciate your language skills.

Even if you’re applying for a job in the service or retail industry, proficiency in an extra language or two is going to give you an advantage over other applicants, especially if you write your CEFR level , and can back up the claim in conversation.

Who knows when some foreign customers will come in and your knowledge will come in handy!

With that scenario in mind:

Be mindful not to exaggerate your skills, as lying on your resume can only get you in trouble.

#8. Hobbies & Interests

It might feel like you’re just filling up some space, but actually, the hobbies and interests you list on a resume can be significant, especially if you don’t have a lot of extracurriculars or work experience.

You need something to hint as to who you are as a person and employee, and listing hobbies and interests will do that for you. 

They also show that you are an engaged individual and well-rounded applicant. 

However, you should be selective with what you mention here. 

Listing 6+ hobbies will end up having the opposite effect - it will look like you’re just throwing in some random words, hoping some of them will be impressive. 

A good strategy is to look for hints on the job ad i.e. if they are looking for a team player, mentioning a team sport as one of your hobbies is a great idea. 

Keep in mind, though, that you should also avoid hobbies that don’t add to your profile as a candidate.

E.g.: your gaming hobby doesn't make you a better candidate for the role of a sales manager.

4 Free High School Resume Templates

So we’re all done with theory at this point. 

There’s one thing left for you to do: sit down and start preparing your resume. 

To help you with that, we’ve gathered 4 free resume templates , perfect for a high school resume. 

All you have to do is pick the ones you like best & get started with your resume!

#1. Simple Resume Template

This versatile template works for all kinds of applicants - from those with plenty to those with zero work experience. 

The neutral colors emphasize information over flashiness and the structure is easy to follow.

#2. Professional Resume Template

This next template is an all-time favorite of ours. 

Unlike the first template, the Professional one is formatted into two columns. It’s simple, yet stands out with its blue accent color (which you can change into any color you like). 

#3. Modern Resume Template

The Modern template adds something more to the traditional resume look. There is a faded design in the background and some of the sections are boxed by large brackets.

It’s a template that stands out without being too loud or wild. 

#4. Creative Resume Template

If you’re applying for a position in a creative field (marketing, design, etc.), this is the template for you. 

It uses accent colors and has a bold header that makes a statement. 

High School Resume Example

As important as picking the right template is, the content of the resume is what’s going to seal the deal. 

Here’s one example of a high school student resume, so you can get a clearer idea of what it should look like!

High School Resume FAQ

If you still have some questions regarding your high school resume, check out the FAQ and our answers below:

1. How can I write a high school resume with no work experience?

As a high school student, it’s more than normal for you to have no work experience. This shouldn’t scare you. 

There’s a lot of activities you can add to your resume that can substitute work experience.

Extracurricular activities, like participation in school clubs, projects, and gigs, are a great indicator of your skills and personality. Any informal work experiences should also be mentioned.

As long as you are showing the recruiter that you are capable of doing the job, your resume will be just fine without a work experience section.

2. How long should a high school resume be?

When it comes to high school resumes, the answer is undebatable: one page. 

A 2018 eye-tracking study showed that recruiters spend about 7 seconds skimming a resume before deciding whether to discard it or not. 

A 2-page resume will be simply excessive. 

Heck, even if you’re a professional with 10 years of work experience, we’d still recommend sticking to 1 page.

For more on resume length best practices, check out our article.

3. What’s the best way to make a high school resume?

An important and time-consuming part of making a resume is getting the formatting right. 

This means meticulously editing a Word or Google doc in order to get the right typeface, font size , line spacing, margins, etc.

What we’re getting at here is, if you’re making your resume manually, it can take you hours…

And then you make a tiny change on your layout, and your resume starts spilling into the second page!

Want to save time and effort?

Just use a resume builder ! The formatting is done for you, and all YOU have to do is fill in the resume!

Key Takeaways

That pretty much covers all you need to know about writing a high school no-experience resume . 

Quite simple and doable, right?

Finally, here’s a recap of what you should keep in mind when writing your high school resume:

• Instead of work experience, talk about extracurriculars like school clubs, personal projects, or gigs.
• Use sections like education, hobbies & interests, and languages to emphasize your skills and give an idea of your personality.
• Grab the recruiter’s attention with a concise resume objective that clearly highlights your top skills and career goals.
• Keep your resume at a maximum of 1 page.

And finally, good luck with your job search!

Related Resume Examples

• No Experience Resume
• Internship Resume
• College Resume
• Research Assistant Resume
• Students and Graduates Resume
• Teacher Resume

Suggested readings:

• The Complete Guide to Remote Work [W/ Tips & Tricks]
• 101+ Achievements to List On Your Resume [In 2024]
• The Ultimate Guide to Job Hunt - Land Your Next Job in 2024

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20 Best Resume Objective Examples for High School Student with No Work Experience

This post presents best resume objective examples for high school student with no work experience, to help you learn how to make one for your resume/CV and improve your chances of having the recruiter/employer read it.

If you are writing a resume/CV for a high school student position without work experience, it must begin with a very good objective statement before it can convince the recruiter/employer that you are the one they are looking for.

It is important to have the employer/recruiter get into your high school student resume to read all parts of it and not just a section of it.

This will make your offer known to the recruiter/employer and enable them to decide if you are the candidate they are looking for and therefore give you an interview even if you have no work experience.

To make a great resume that gets you an interview with an employer/recruiter, it is important to learn about various resume statistics before writing your resume. According to novoresume, these resume statistics will give you helpful insight into the prevailing HR trends, guide you in making the right decision about your job hunting, and in creating an effective resume.

How to Make a Great Resume Objective Statement for High School Student Position Without Experience

To make a resume objective statement for a high school student position that does not need any work experience, you need to first learn about the position from the recruiter/employer with a view to understanding what they want for the position.

You will be able to learn about the high school student position by studying the job description and requirements published by the employer/recruiter.

You will be able to discover the duties and responsibilities associated with the role and the qualities, skills, education, etc. needed by the recruiter/employer that candidates should meet to be hired or approved for the position.

The above information will help you to make an assessment of your qualification for the high school student position and to craft an impactful objective statement for your resume.

To be highly impactful, your resume objective statement should highlight some of the major skills, abilities, knowledge, relevant activities, and projects that match what the recruiter/employer stated in the published job description and requirements for the high school student position.

Remember that you have no work experience to show in your resume objective, so you need to emphasize other qualities and activities, including project work and internship that you have had.

Now, let’s see some examples of high school student resume objective statements to further increase your knowledge of writing one for your resume/CV.

• Team-oriented individual willing to work at LIKS ICE CREAM as an Ice Cream Scooper with excellent interpersonal communication, math, and problem-solving skills. Looking to utilize the ability to maintain a friendly, high energy attitude when interacting with Liks’ customers and other employees.
• Energetic individual with a team player, reliable, positive attitude, and hard-working skills seeking to apply for a Server position with Texas Roadhouse. Coming with the ability to demonstrate great salesmanship and create a wonderful rapport with guests. Also bringing the ability to use the POS system effectively and handle cash without losses.
• To obtain a position with Starbucks to deliver legendary customer service to all customers. Bringing strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships, work as part of a team, and understand and carry out verbal and written instructions. Also coming with the competence to follow Starbucks operational policies and procedures.
• Passionate individual seeking a lifeguard position with Onelife Fitness, to utilize profound ability to greet all members, guests, and visitors as they enter the pool area. Also bringing excellent verbal and nonverbal communication skills, exceptional listening skills, strong work ethic, demonstrated knowledge of first-aid practices and techniques, and knowledge of swimming pool operations.
• Safety conscious individual with the ability to follow established food safety guidelines, recipes, standards, and procedures, desirous of a Prep Cook position with Outback Steakhouse, to passionately prepare, portion, and cook food items to quality specifications.

More Resume Objective Examples for High School Student with No Work Experience [6-10]

6. Individual with a strong ability to learn fast interested in the position of a Box Office Cashier at Star Cinema Grill, to apply exceptional customer service and communication skills on the job. Also bringing a positive and helpful attitude and great personal drive.

7. Team-oriented individual eager to work at Old Republic Title Holding Company as a Receptionist, bringing detailed oriented skills and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment. Also coming with the ability to consistently meet deadlines, demonstrate a strong follow-through, and work as a team player.

8. Passionate individual hopeful for a High School Student position with CRH, to work as a Production Laborer. Coming with the ability to apply common sense of understanding to accomplish detailed written and verbal instructions. Also bringing the capability to operate a variety of hand tools, and assist the lead operator in preparing for shift production.

9. Seeking a Construction Laborer position with McGuire and Hester where the ability to operate jackhammers and drills to break up concrete and pavement will be applied. Also coming with strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, planning and organizational skills, flexibility, and dependability, as well as the ability to use spray guns to apply materials on surfaces.

10. Extremely organized individual interested in securing a Landscaping Laborer position with Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, to bring the competence to perform heavy physical activity during snow removal. Also coming with profound skills to install and maintain the exterior landscape at the Foxwoods Casino and the Reservation.

More Resume Objective Examples for High School Student with No Work Experience [11-15]

11. Individual with strong reasoning proficiency seeks a Dog Walker position at Austin Pets Alive. Coming with exceptional ability to handle large dogs safely and walk them and other dogs to playgroup. Also coming with skills in ensuring dogs have water, and the ability to perform daily wellness checks, lock checks, and other opening and closing duties.

12. Seeking the job of a Pet Sitter where the willingness to enjoy walking and some light jogging with pets will be utilized. Coming with a valid driver’s license and pet-friendliness. Also bringing strong ability to commit to the position for more than 12 months from the date of hire, as well as strong ability to pass a background check and become a local full-time resident of CT.

13. Hardworking individual seeking a Babysitter position with New York Sports Club looks to apply the willingness to care for children. Also bringing a High School diploma, excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong interpersonal skills, and good judgment, and strong attention to detail.

14. Certified student with a High School Diploma longs for a Housekeeper position with Crimmins Residential Staffing to oversee children’s schedules and activities, and drive them to and from school each day. Also coming with a driver’s license, and a professional, good listening and proactive, honest, discreet, and completely trustworthy personality.

15. Talented individual seeking to work with PPD Industries as a Delivery Driver. Coming with great driving skills, a valid driver’s license, and the ability to work flexible retail hours including weekends. Also bringing strong ability to assist customers, calculate surface volume and paint tint, and make local deliveries to customers.

More Resume Objective Examples for High School Student with No Work Experience [16-20]

16. Hopeful to gain employment with Salem Keizer Public School District as an Avid Tutor to conduct virtual and in-person tutorial sessions that underscore the principle of collaborative learning and the practice of students teaching other students through a discussion of class and text notes. Also bringing NYS Certification in Elementary and the ability to provide constructive feedback online and in-person on student work.

17. To obtain a position with Hannaford as a Part-time Grocery Store Associate to leverage the ability to communicate with and assist customers in the selection of products. Bringing effective communication, customer service, and selling skills to the job. Also coming with effective interpersonal skills and the desire to work in a team environment and scan customers’ purchases into the cash register efficiently and accurately.

18. Highly skilled individual seeking a Variety Stocker position at WinCo Foods where strong ability to maintain an atmosphere of friendly, enthusiastic interpersonal communication with an emphasis on taking care of the customer. Also bringing the capacity to consistently provide world-class customer service to internal and external customers.

19. Hopeful to gain employment with Trader Joe’s as a Crew Member to answer questions, offer suggestions, and ensure customers know they are welcomed and cared for. Also coming with strong ability to work on teams to accomplish goals and create signage to inform and delight customers.

20. A well-organized individual with the ability to identify, price, and tag special orders and notify customers of their arrival. Seeking employment with LifeSource Natural Foods as a Grocery Clerk to utilize strong ability to answer staff and customer questions regarding out of stocks, ETA’s, and product discontinuations.

Your objective statement for a resume or CV for high school student with no experience position should show relevant qualities, skills, knowledge, etc. that are required to succeed on the job.

This post provides great ideas and examples to help you learn and master writing an effective objective for your high school student resume when you don’t have work experience yet.

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How To Write A Resume Objective Statement (Examples Included)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

UPDATED 5/18/2022

Resumes. We all know what they are. We all know how important having a good one is…and how much a bad one can hurt your ability to get your dream job. That’s why reviewing different resume objective examples is essential, ensuring you can create well-crafted, carefully targeted resumes for hiring managers.

So, how do you make sure your resume objective – and entire application – stands out? We’ll tell you. Come with us as we explore some resume objective statement examples, as well as tips on how to ensure yours shines.

What is a Resume Objective?

“My objective? Well, that’s easy. My objective is to get the job.”

Absolutely, we couldn’t agree more. But an objective on your resume is so much more than just writing, “Hey, hire me. I’m super awesome.”

So, what is an objective for a resume?

Well, according to the Marquette University College of Business Administration , “an objective statement is a concise, position-centered statement describing the value you can add and the needs you can fulfill.”

Our friends over at Indeed.com take it a step further, saying: “A well-written resume objective statement can be customized for the job you’re applying for and add value to your resume that sets it apart from other applicants.”

Essentially, a resume objective is a targeted snippet that clearly outlines your career direction while simultaneously positioning you as someone who fits what the employer is looking for exactly.

Sounds pretty ingenious, right? So why don’t more people have them on their resumes?

Resume objectives can be a bit controversial. Some people think they can make you look amateurish…which, if you don’t do it correctly, is absolutely true. But that can be said for any section of your resume.

Other schools of thought think that the objectives should be taken out entirely and replaced with the more popular “ resume summary statement .”

You may be wondering, “What if I use a resume objective and the hiring manager looks at it and laughs? Are they going to throw out my resume…or worse, put it on the wall of shame?”

Now, nobody is going to laugh at your resume objective as long as you use the right approach. Additionally, if your career is moving in certain directions, using a resume objective makes more sense than the alternatives.

When Should You Use a Resume Objective?

Are you relatively new to the job search market or lack work experience?

Are you changing industries?

Are you targeting a specific job or position?

If you answered “YES” to any of these above questions, then the resume objective is potentially perfect. If you answered “NO” to all of the above questions, you might be better off with a “Resume Summary Statement.”

For those of you in the middle of a career change or who might just be starting out, a resume objective statement allows you to define your goal to a potential employer…something that your work history might not otherwise be able to do for you.

Imagine how confused a hiring manager would be if they were looking for candidates to fill an office coordinator position and you sent in a resume with ten years of experience in marketing. Without an objective statement, the hiring manager might just assume your resume has been accidentally sent to them and simply discard it.

With an objective statement, you can not only let the hiring manager know that your resume IS in the right spot but also explain that you’re making the switch and show that your skill set does align with this new career path.

If you’re targeting a specific job or position, a resume objective statement can help reinforce that idea that you know EXACTLY what you’re after. That can work in your favor, too.

Overall, and most importantly, the biggest reason to put an objective on your resume is…it’s better than having nothing. Remember, your goal is to catch the hiring manager’s eye and stand out from the rest of the paper in that pile.

Common Mistakes

There are several common mistakes job seekers can make when writing their statement with the number one being using the same objective for every job application.

1) Using the Same Objective For Every Job Application

To obtain a job within my chosen field that will challenge me and allow me to use my education, skills and past experiences in a way that is mutually beneficial to both myself and my employer and allow for future growth and advancement.

Your goal is to be the ideal candidate and that means making sure you’re exactly what the hiring manager is looking for…and unless you’re applying to a cookie cutter factory in a cookie cutter job town where every job every employer is listing is exactly the same then I guarantee you 100% that your statement will NOT be a “one size fits all” statement.

2) Making It All About You

This is a trap that many job seekers fall into, as they can’t resist to use the objective to list off all of the things that they want to get out of the position.

Hi, I’m Joe Jobseeker and I really want a job in a company where I make a ton of money doing as little as possible. Oh, and a corner office. A company car would be nice too. While we’re at it, let’s talk benefits, retirement…and the company vacation policy.

Yes, we’re being over the top with this one, but we need you to look at this and laugh…because even a slightly toned down one where you list only what YOU want is going to come off just as ridiculous to the hiring manager as the one we’ve blown out of proportion.

3) Being Too Vague

Mistake number three is being vague. Like we said, this isn’t a one size fits all so by being ambiguous in the hopes of somewhat fitting what they’re looking for is going to get your resume sent directly to the circular file. (In case you don’t know, the circular file is the trash can. It just sounds fancier but the end result is the same…no job.)

Looking for a long term full time job where I can apply my extensive skills and knowledge to the position for which I am hired.

Blah. Who is this person? All we know by reading this statement is that they have skills and knowledge…but other than that, not much else. What skills do they have? Do they really apply to the job? And what knowledge can they draw from that will benefit the company? See what we mean? It’s so generic you could literally fit anything into those blanks…it’s like Resume Mad Libs!

4) Going On… And On… And On… And On… and zzzzzzzzzzzzz….

Mistake number four is being too long. This isn’t a novel. It’s a quick little blurb to catch their attention so they can bring you in for an interview…then you can get into more detail!

Not going to put one here. Why? Because the example we were going to do was going to be so long and ridiculous that you and everyone else reading this post would just get bored and move onto another article. Just remember, it’s all about short and sweet. Anything over a sentence or two is TOO LONG. Remember that.

5) Adding Absolutely No Value

Mistake number five is probably the worst…and the easiest to fall into (outside of mistake number two, the “all about me” statement.) Mistake number five is writing a statement that basically fills space but doesn’t tell the hiring manager anything about the value you bring to the table. This can also be confused with the too vague statement…

To obtain a position within my chosen field where I can utilize my skills as a hard-working, well-educated employee in exchange for a steady market-fair paycheck.

Congratulations. You’re educated and you’re hard working and you want to make money. So what? So are 90% of the people you’re going up against. Why are YOU the ideal candidate? What makes the hiring manager want to bring YOU in over everyone else? See what we mean?

AND MOST IMPORTANTLY:

How are you going to fulfill the needs of the company?

When writing your resume objective, you should always have the intention of answering this question.

How To Write An Effective Resume Objective

So how do you write a GOOD resume objective?

One thing every one of these bad examples has in common is the fact that not a single one of them is tailored to the position you’re looking for. Any hiring manager who looks at a resume with objectives like those is going to immediately move on to the next candidate.

Because whoever those potential hires are, they’re not ideal candidates. You need to not only catch the hiring manager’s eye; you must make sure that they look at your statement and say, “Here’s the perfect fit!”

So, how do you make it happen? Well, a really good place to start is by looking at the job description. According to Indeed.com , “…when you include an objective that’s specific to the job role, the recruiter is more likely to dig deeper and learn more details about your professional experience.”

After that, make sure it’s tailored to not only the position but the company as well. By incorporating a few tidbits that speak to the company’s mission and values, you can take that quick statement up a notch.

Nice, right?

Additionally, focus on how you’re a benefit to the company, not how the company can benefit you. Showcase value, ensuring you point out what you bring to the table.

Keep it short and sweet, too. Skip overblown adjectives in favor of action verbs, which will help “raise the energy levels” of your objective and ensure that it is more dynamic and interesting.

If you’re someone who is changing careers, demonstrate how your past experiences relate to your future tasks. The same goes for those who are just starting out or who are relatively inexperienced.

Resume Objective Examples

In some cases, nothing makes the points above clearer quite like a few resume objective examples. Here are a handful of samples, each targeting different situations.

New to Workforce, No High School Diploma

“Diligent, dedicated individual looking to apply communication and collaboration skills in a fast-paced customer service role. A self-motivated team player with an outgoing personality who’s ready to learn the ins and outs of a new industry and provide ample value to a retail employer.”

New to Workforce, No College

“Well-organized high school honor graduate with exceptional problem-solving and collaboration skills seeking opportunities in the office administration field where strong communication, time management, and research skills can provide excellent value to an employer.”

College Student, Aspiring Intern

“Current accounting student with an emphasis on accounts payable and accounts receivable seeking developmental opportunities with a local firm. Diligent, focused, and tech-savvy, looking to provide value to a skilled team.”

Recent College Graduate

“Hard-working business administration graduate with proven leadership and organizational skills. Looking to leverage knowledge or operational processes, emerging commercial trends, and supply machine management to increase efficiency and support broader productivity goals.”

Recent College Graduate with Internship Experience

“Honor graduate with a Bachelor’s in Human Resources and one year of experience at a leading staffing firm looking to leverage a deep understanding of leading ATS solutions, modern interview techniques, and conflict resolution strategies to support the goals of an enterprise-level HR department.”

Career Change

“Ambitious professional looking to leverage 5+ years of customer service experience and exceptional communication skills in the fast-paced field of real estate. Proven ability to build lasting, long-term relationships, understand client needs, and find solutions designed to ensure customer satisfaction.”

Career Change with New Education

“Experienced accounting professional and recent college graduate with a Bachelor’s in IT looking to leverage mathematical and analytical capabilities in a data analyst role with an enterprise-level employer. Impeccable attention to detail and organizational skills, as well as strong desire to learn and grow on the job.”

Targeting Specific Role

“Skilled software developer with 7+ years of experience with Java, Python, and C++ seeking out opportunities in team-oriented environments that prioritize Agile methodologies, Lean strategies, and DevOps principles to accelerate timelines and achieve challenging goals.”

Speaking of specific roles, we thought that it might be prudent to dig deeper into a couple careers that we get the most questions about (in terms of resume objectives). Here are our deep-dive articles into Teacher Resume Objectives , Customer Service Resume Objectives and Nursing Resume Objectives . Enjoy!

Putting It All Together

So, there you have it. We’ve covered what a resume objective statement is, who should use one, and how to properly execute it. Plus, there are some handy resume objective examples that can serve as inspiration.

While some people might claim that the objective statement for a resume is outdated, if done properly, it can make a difference. Use all of the information above to your advantage. That way, you’ll be one step closer to your dream job.

FREE : Resume Objective PDF Cheat Sheet

Ok the next thing you should do is get our handy Resume Objective Cheat Sheet PDF .

In it you'll get word-for-word sample resume objectives covering a variety of scenarios you can use right away .

CLICK HERE TO GET THE RESUME OBJECTIVE CHEAT SHEET

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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Top 16 High School Teacher Resume Objective Examples

Updated July 10, 2023 12 min read

A resume objective is a concise statement that communicates to the hiring manager why you are the ideal candidate for the high school teacher position. It should be tailored to the specific job and highlight your unique skills, qualifications, and experience. When writing a resume objective for a high school teacher position, consider including your relevant teaching experience, certifications, and any specialties or areas of expertise that make you an ideal fit for the role. For example, “Highly organized and experienced high school teacher with 8 years of teaching experience in mathematics and science seeking to join ABC High School’s faculty as a math teacher.” Additionally, include any additional qualities that may set you apart from other candidates such as your knowledge of technology or ability to work well with diverse student populations.

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Top 16 High School Teacher Resume Objective Samples

• To help students reach their highest potential as a high school teacher.
• To motivate and inspire students to become lifelong learners.
• To create an engaging and stimulating learning environment for all students.
• To develop innovative strategies to effectively teach curriculum material in an engaging manner.
• To foster a positive and supportive classroom atmosphere that encourages student growth.
• To use creative teaching methods to engage students and promote critical thinking skills.
• To provide individualized instruction to meet the needs of each student.
• To mentor, guide, and support students in their academic journey.
• To establish positive relationships with parents, administrators, and other staff members.
• To implement effective classroom management techniques to ensure a safe learning environment.
• To assess student progress regularly and adjust instruction accordingly.
• To collaborate with colleagues to develop best practices for teaching high school-level courses.
• To integrate technology into the classroom experience to enhance learning opportunities for students.
• To use data-driven decision making to inform instructional decisions and improve student outcomes.
• To serve as a role model for students by displaying integrity, respect, and professionalism at all times.
• To continuously seek professional development opportunities to remain current on best practices in education

How to Write a High School Teacher Resume Objective

A resume objective is an important part of a high school teacher’s resume. It is the first thing potential employers will read, so it should be concise, clear, and well-written. A good resume objective should communicate your qualifications and experience in a way that sets you apart from other candidates.

When writing a high school teacher resume objective, start by introducing yourself as a professional educator with relevant experience in the field. Provide a brief overview of your education background, such as any degrees or certifications you have earned. This can include any specializations or areas of expertise that you possess. Next, explain why you are interested in teaching at the high school level. Emphasize any previous teaching experience and highlight how it has prepared you for this role. You may also want to mention any specific skills or knowledge that make you qualified for this position.

Finally, conclude your resume objective by expressing your enthusiasm for the job and explaining why you believe you are the best candidate for the position. Be sure to focus on how you will contribute to both student learning outcomes and classroom success. By doing this, employers will know that you are serious about the job and ready to hit the ground running!

By crafting a compelling resume objective tailored to the high school teacher position, potential employers will gain an understanding of who you are as an educator and be motivated to learn more about what makes you stand out as a candidate.

Related : What does a High School Teacher do?

Key Skills to Highlight in Your High School Teacher Resume Objective

In the competitive field of education, your resume is your first chance to make a lasting impression on potential employers. A crucial part of this document is the resume objective where you summarize your career goals and key qualifications. For high school teachers, this section should highlight specific skills that are most relevant to the job. This includes not only your expertise in a particular subject area but also your ability to manage classrooms, engage students, and implement effective teaching strategies. In this section, we will discuss which key skills you should emphasize in your high school teacher resume objective to stand out from other candidates.

1. Lesson planning

A High School Teacher needs the skill of lesson planning to effectively prepare and deliver educational content to students. This skill is crucial for a resume objective because it demonstrates the teacher's ability to organize, plan, and implement instructional activities that meet curriculum standards and cater to the learning needs of diverse students. It also shows their commitment to providing high-quality education, improving student performance, and achieving academic goals.

2. Classroom management

A high school teacher needs strong classroom management skills to maintain control and discipline in the classroom, ensuring that all students have a conducive learning environment. This skill is essential for a resume objective as it demonstrates the teacher's ability to effectively manage diverse student behaviors, promote engagement, and facilitate productive learning experiences. It also shows potential employers that the candidate can create and implement strategies to foster positive behavior, respect, and cooperation among students.

3. Differentiated instruction

Differentiated instruction is a critical skill for a high school teacher because it demonstrates the ability to adapt teaching methods and materials to meet the diverse learning needs of students. This skill is important for a resume objective as it shows potential employers that the candidate can effectively manage classrooms with diverse learners, thereby enhancing student engagement, understanding, and academic performance.

4. Assessment design

A High School Teacher needs the skill of assessment design in order to create effective and appropriate tests, quizzes, and assignments that measure student understanding and progress. This skill is crucial for a resume objective as it demonstrates the teacher's ability to evaluate student performance, adapt teaching methods, and contribute to curriculum development. It also shows the teacher's commitment to ensuring students meet learning objectives and standards.

5. Curriculum development

Curriculum development is a crucial skill for a high school teacher as it involves planning, designing, and developing educational programs and instructional materials for students. This skill is essential to ensure that the content being taught aligns with the standards set by the education system. It also shows the ability of the teacher to create engaging and effective learning experiences tailored to meet diverse student needs. Including this in a resume objective demonstrates strategic thinking, creativity, and understanding of pedagogical theories and principles - all key qualities for an effective high school teacher.

6. Parent communication

A high school teacher needs the skill of parent communication as they are responsible for regularly updating parents about their child's progress, behavior, and any issues that may arise. This skill shows that a teacher can effectively convey information and collaborate with parents to support student success. Including this in a resume objective demonstrates an understanding of the importance of parent-teacher relationships in education.

7. Student engagement

A high school teacher needs the skill of student engagement to ensure that students are actively participating in the learning process. This skill is crucial for a resume objective as it demonstrates the teacher's ability to create interactive and stimulating lessons, maintain classroom discipline, motivate students, and foster a positive learning environment. It also shows their commitment to student success and achievement, which are key objectives in any teaching role.

8. Conflict resolution

As a High School Teacher, conflict resolution is an essential skill because it enables the teacher to mediate disputes between students, resolve classroom issues effectively and maintain a positive learning environment. This skill also helps in fostering better communication and understanding among students, thereby promoting teamwork and mutual respect. Including this skill in a resume objective demonstrates the ability to manage classroom dynamics and contribute to the overall growth and development of students.

9. Google Classroom proficiency

Google Classroom proficiency is a crucial skill for a high school teacher as it demonstrates the ability to utilize digital platforms for educational purposes. This skill is particularly important in today's tech-driven learning environment, where remote and blended learning are becoming increasingly common. A teacher proficient in Google Classroom can effectively manage online classes, distribute assignments, communicate with students, and track their progress. Thus, showcasing this skill in a resume objective can highlight the candidate's adaptability to modern teaching methods and their commitment to providing accessible education for all students.

10. Time management

A High School Teacher needs to have excellent time management skills in order to effectively plan and execute lessons, grade assignments, manage classroom activities, and meet educational goals within a set timeframe. This skill is essential to mention in a resume objective as it demonstrates the candidate's ability to efficiently handle multiple tasks and responsibilities, which is crucial for maintaining a productive learning environment.

In conclusion, the objective section of your high school teacher resume is a vital component that can significantly influence an employer's first impression of you. Highlighting key skills in this section will not only showcase your capabilities but also demonstrate how these abilities align with the job requirements. Remember to tailor your skills to each specific role and ensure they are relevant to the position you're applying for. This strategic approach could set you apart from other candidates and increase your chances of securing an interview.

Related : High School Teacher Skills: Definition and Examples

Common Mistakes When Writing a High School Teacher Resume Objective

When writing a high school teacher resume objective, there are several common mistakes that applicants often make. The most frequent mistake is not customizing the objective to fit the position. An effective resume should be tailored to each job application, so it’s important to ensure that your objective is specific and relevant to the position you’re applying for. Additionally, many applicants forget to include key skills and qualifications in their objective. Even if you don’t have extensive teaching experience, be sure to highlight any related skills or experiences you have that could be beneficial for the role.

Another mistake is using overly general language in your resume objective. While it can be helpful to use industry jargon and terminology, avoid using generic phrases such as “I possess excellent communication skills” or “I am a highly motivated individual” without specifying how these qualities could benefit the school district. Instead, focus on describing how your unique background and skillset will help with their specific needs.

Finally, many high school teachers fail to mention why they are passionate about teaching in their resume objectives. A strong candidate should be able to demonstrate their enthusiasm for the profession and explain why they would be an ideal fit for the job. By including a few sentences expressing your commitment to helping students learn and grow, you can set yourself apart from other applicants who simply list generic qualifications or experiences on their resumes.

Overall, when crafting a resume objective for a high school teacher position, it’s important to carefully consider what makes you unique while avoiding generic language or clichés. By focusing on specific skills and qualifications that match the job description as well as expressing your passion for teaching, you can create an effective resume objective that stands out from other candidates and helps land an interview.

Related : High School Teacher Resume Examples

The right resume objective for a high school teacher should focus on the candidate's ability to help students learn, while the wrong objective should focus on personal career goals.

Editorial staff

Brenna Goyette

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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Five things to know about Tim Walz

On Tuesday, Vice President Kamala Harris decided on Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate in her bid for the White House.

Minnesota voters gathered outside Governor Tim Walz’s residence react as Walz was announced as the running mate of Kamala Harris in the U.S. presidential election. (AP Video by Mark Vancleave)

Vice President Kamala Harris has picked Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to be her running mate, turning to a Midwestern governor, military veteran and union supporter who helped enact an ambitious Democratic agenda for his state.

FILE - Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, right, laughs as he stands with Fridley, Minn., Mayor Scott Lund during a visit to the Cummins Power Generation Facility in Fridley, Minn., Monday, April 3, 2023. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File)

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FILE - Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz applauds as President Joe Biden speaks at Dutch Creek Farms in Northfield, Minn., Nov. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, File)

FILE - Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz listens after meeting with President Joe Biden, July 3, 2024, at the White House in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File)

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz speaks during a news conference for the Biden-Harris campaign discussing the Project 2025 plan during the third day of the 2024 Republican National Convention near the Fiserv Forum, Wednesday, July 17, 2024, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Joe Lamberti)

FILE - Minnesota Governor Tim Walz greets reporters before Vice President Kamala Harris speaks at Planned Parenthood, March 14, 2024, in St. Paul, Minn. (AP Photo/Adam Bettcher, File)

FILE - Rep. Betty McCullum, D-Minn., left, and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, listen as Vice President Kamala Harris speaks at Planned Parenthood, March 14, 2024, in St. Paul, Minn. (AP Photo/Adam Bettcher, File)

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MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Vice President Kamala Harris has decided on Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate in her bid for the White House. The 60-year-old Democrat and military veteran rose to the forefront with a series of plain-spoken television appearances in the days after President Joe Biden decided not to seek a second term. He has made his state a bastion of liberal policy and, this year, one of the few states to protect fans buying tickets online for Taylor Swift concerts and other live events.

Some things to know about Walz:

Walz comes from rural America

It would be hard to find a more vivid representative of the American heartland than Walz. Born in West Point, Nebraska, a community of about 3,500 people northwest of Omaha, Walz joined the Army National Guard and became a teacher in Nebraska.

He and his wife moved to Mankato in southern Minnesota in the 1990s. That’s where he taught social studies and coached football at Mankato West High School, including for the 1999 team that won the first of the school’s four state championships. He still points to his union membership there.

Walz served 24 years in the Army National Guard, rising to command sergeant major, one of the highest enlisted ranks in the military, although he didn’t complete all the training before he retired so his rank for benefits purposes was set at master sergeant.

He has a proven ability to connect with conservative voters

In his first race for Congress, Walz upset a Republican incumbent. That was in 2006, when he won in a largely rural, southern Minnesota congressional district against six-term Rep. Gil Gutknecht. Walz capitalized on voter anger with then-President George W. Bush and the Iraq war.

During six terms in the U.S. House, Walz championed veterans’ issues.

He’s also shown a down-to-earth side, partly through social media video posts with his daughter, Hope. One last fall showed them trying a Minnesota State Fair ride, “The Slingshot,” after they bantered about fair food and her being a vegetarian.

He could help the ticket in key Midwestern states

While Walz isn’t from one of the crucial “blue wall” states of Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania, where both sides believe they need to win, he’s right next door. He also could ensure that Minnesota stays in the hands of Democrats.

That’s important because former President Donald Trump has portrayed Minnesota as being in play this year, even though the state hasn’t elected a Republican to statewide office since 2006. A GOP presidential candidate hasn’t carried the state since President Richard Nixon’s landslide in 1972, but Trump has already campaigned there .

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When Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton decided not to seek a third term in 2018, Walz campaigned and won the office on a “One Minnesota” theme.

Walz also speaks comfortably about issues that matter to voters in the Rust Belt. He’s been a champion of Democratic causes, including union organizing, workers’ rights and a $15-an-hour minimum wage.

He has experience with divided government

In his first term as governor, Walz faced a Legislature split between a Democratic-led House and a Republican-controlled Senate that resisted his proposals to use higher taxes to boost money for schools, health care and roads. But he and lawmakers brokered compromises that made the state’s divided government still seem productive.

Bipartisan cooperation became tougher during his second year as he used the governor’s emergency power during the COVID-19 pandemic to shutter businesses and close schools. Republicans pushed back and forced out some agency heads. Republicans also remain critical of Walz over what they see as his slow response to sometimes violent unrest that followed the murder of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer in 2020.

Things got easier for Walz in his second term, after he defeated Republican Scott Jensen , a physician known nationally as a vaccine skeptic. Democrats gained control of both legislative chambers, clearing the way for a more liberal course in state government, aided by a huge budget surplus.

Walz and lawmakers eliminated nearly all of the state abortion restrictions enacted in the past by Republicans, protected gender-affirming care for transgender youth and legalized the recreational use of marijuana.

Rejecting Republican pleas that the state budget surplus be used to cut taxes, Democrats funded free school meals for children, free tuition at public colleges for students in families earning under $80,000 a year, a paid family and medical leave program and health insurance coverage regardless of a person’s immigration status.

He has an ear for sound-bite politics

Walz called Republican nominee Donald Trump and running mate JD Vance “just weird” in an MSNBC interview last month and the Democratic Governors Association — which Walz chairs — amplified the point in a post on X . Walz later reiterated the characterization on CNN, citing Trump’s repeated mentions of the fictional serial killer Hannibal Lecter from the film “Silence of the Lambs” in stump speeches.

The word quickly morphed into a theme for Harris and other Democrats and has a chance to be a watchword of the undoubtedly weird 2024 election.

Hanna reported from Topeka, Kansas.