by Can you put middle school achievements on a resume? It’s a question many students ask when crafting that first teen resume for a summer job, internship, or school application.
While these early accomplishments for resume can seem impressive, especially when there’s not much else to include, it’s important to understand when and how to use them effectively.
In this article, we’ll explore whether middle school awards for resume, activities, and recognitions truly belong on a resume—and when it might be time to leave them off.
Can I put middle school achievements on a resume?
- When it’s okay to include middle school achievements?
Not everyone needs to list academic accomplishments—but for some, it can be a smart move. Here’s who might benefit most.
Middle School Students
If you're in 7th or 8th grade and writing your resume for the first time, you probably don’t have much experience to showcase yet. That’s totally fine! Your middle school achievements might be your strongest selling points right now.
You might be applying for:
- Academic programs or school clubs
- Summer camps that want to see your hobbies and interests and involvement
- Volunteer positions with community organizations
- Your first internship or part-time job
Focus on accomplishments that show initiative, responsibility, or creativity—like starting a recycling project, winning a spelling bee, or helping organize a school event.
High School Freshmen or Sophomores
If you’re in 9th or 10th grade and your resume feels a little empty, including one or two major academic success examples from middle school can help fill the gap—as long as they’re still relevant.
For example, you might still mention:
- A science fair award if you're now in a STEM club
- A leadership role in student council if you're running for something again
- A published short story if you're applying to a writing program
But remember: as your high school experience grows, those earlier highlights should gradually fade out.
- When you should leave achievements in school off?
If you’re already deep into high school or college—or looking for jobs where professional experience matters—then middle school awards may seem outdated or unprofessional. When in doubt, ask yourself:
“Does this still reflect who I am today?”
If the answer is no, it’s time to leave it off.
- Can you put middle school achievements on college application?
In most cases, colleges prefer to see what you’ve done during high school, since those years better reflect your current skills, maturity, and interests.
That said, there are a few exceptions—especially if your accomplishments are truly significant or laid the foundation for something you continued in high school.
When it might make sense:
- The award was national-level or highly competitive
- You continued the activity or built on it through high school (e.g., you started a science blog in 8th grade and still maintain it)
- It reflects a long-term interest or passion that aligns with your intended major
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How to present middle school achievements on a resume?
Choose the Right Section Header
You don’t need to label it “Middle School Stuff”—that'll only make it stand out in the wrong way. Instead, use a broader, more polished heading that blends these experiences into your document naturally. Try something like:
- Notable Achievements
- Awards and Honors
- Leadership & Activities
- Academic Highlights (if most achievements are school-related)
- Early Accomplishments (great if your resume includes later honors too)
Avoid putting these items in the Education section unless they relate directly to academics—like a national essay contest or perfect attendance award.
Keep Descriptions Short and Impactful
Don’t over-explain. One line is usually enough—two at most. Focus on what you did and why it mattered. Always lead with action and results.
Instead of this:
Participated in a school event that helped raise money.
Try this:
Organized a school talent show that raised $600 for local shelters (7th grade).
See the difference? One sounds passive; the other is proactive.
Use Dates Carefully (or Not at All)
If you're still in 8th or 9th grade, including the year is fine. But if you're a sophomore or older, refrain from drawing attention to how long ago something was—especially if it's no longer relevant. You can simply say:
Regional Finalist, National History Bee
No need to mention it happened when you were 12.
Connect It to Present-Day Skills
Whenever possible, tie your past achievement to who you are now. This adds depth and makes older wins feel more relevant. For example:
1st Place, State Science Fair (8th grade) — sparked interest in biology, now pursuing AP Biology and pre-med track.
Here's a great resume example:
What to include instead of school achievements?
If middle school achievements no longer serve your current goals, don’t worry—you’ve got plenty of other things you can highlight. Even without formal work history, there are many ways to show initiative and growth.
Informal Experience
You don’t need an official job title to prove you’ve handled responsibility. Think of any situation where you contributed your time or skills.
Examples:
- Babysitting for neighbors or family friends
- Dog walking, lawn care, or house sitting
- Tutoring younger students or helping classmates study
- Assisting with family business or community events
Treat these like mini jobs—describe what you did, how often, and the result.
Personal Initiatives
Did you create something outside of school? Organize an event? Start a small business or passion project? These efforts speak volumes. You might include:
- Built a personal website to showcase artwork
- Designed a study guide used by peers for finals
- Created a digital newsletter for a school club
- Launched a small Etsy store for handmade crafts
These types of experiences demonstrate creativity, commitment, and problem-solving—qualities employers and admissions teams appreciate.
Relevant Coursework
Academic effort counts too, especially if you’ve gone beyond the basics. Think of classes or certifications that reflect your interests and potential.
Completed “Intro to Python” through Codeacademy — applied concepts to build a budgeting app.
Extracurricular Activities
Clubs, sports teams, and school organizations aren’t just hobbies—they’re proof you know how to collaborate, commit, and contribute.
Good options are:
- Debate, drama, robotics, or academic teams
- Band, orchestra, or choir performances
- Student government or school events
- Athletic participation with notable milestones (team captain, MVP, regional tournaments)
Conclusion
Including middle school achievements on a resume is okay in specific situations—especially for younger teens just starting out with no other experience.
But as you move forward and gain more relevant accomplishments, it’s best to replace older entries with current ones. Think of your application as a snapshot of who you are now, not just who you were.
If these academic success examples still reflect your strengths and goals today, add them strategically. Otherwise, it’s a good sign you’ve outgrown them—which is exactly the point of growing up.
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