Do You Put High School Education on Resume? And Why Does It Feel Like a Time Capsule?

Do You Put High School Education on Resume? And Why Does It Feel Like a Time Capsule?

When it comes to crafting the perfect resume, one of the most debated topics is whether or not to include high school education. For some, high school feels like a distant memory, a time capsule buried deep in the past. For others, it’s a foundational experience that still holds relevance. But does it belong on your resume? Let’s dive into this question from multiple angles, exploring the pros, cons, and the occasional absurdity of including high school education in your professional profile.


The Case for Including High School Education on Your Resume

1. You’re Just Starting Out

If you’re fresh out of high school or college, your high school diploma might be one of your most significant achievements. For entry-level positions, employers often look for basic qualifications, and a high school diploma can demonstrate that you meet the minimum educational requirements.

2. It’s Relevant to the Job

In some fields, high school education can be surprisingly relevant. For example, if you’re applying for a job that requires specific coursework or skills you developed in high school (like advanced math, science, or even extracurricular activities), it might be worth mentioning.

3. You Attended a Prestigious High School

Let’s face it: some high schools carry a certain cachet. If you attended a well-known or highly respected institution, listing it on your resume could catch an employer’s eye. It might not be Harvard, but it could still make an impression.

4. You Have Limited Work Experience

If your work history is sparse, your high school education can help fill out your resume. It shows that you’ve completed a significant milestone and have a foundation of knowledge and skills.


The Case Against Including High School Education on Your Resume

1. It’s No Longer Relevant

For many professionals, high school is a distant memory. If you’ve been in the workforce for years or have a college degree, your high school education is likely irrelevant to your current career trajectory.

2. It Takes Up Valuable Space

Resumes are typically one to two pages long, and every line counts. Including high school education might mean sacrificing space that could be better used to highlight more recent and relevant experiences.

3. It Can Make You Look Inexperienced

If you’re applying for a mid- or senior-level position, listing your high school education might make you seem less qualified. Employers might wonder why you’re emphasizing an achievement from so long ago.

4. It’s Not Always a Differentiator

Unless you attended a particularly prestigious high school or achieved something extraordinary, your high school education probably won’t set you apart from other candidates. Employers are more interested in your recent accomplishments and skills.


The Gray Area: When It Depends

1. Your Industry Matters

In some industries, like trades or technical fields, high school education might still hold weight, especially if it included specialized training or certifications. In others, like tech or creative fields, it’s less likely to matter.

2. Your Location Matters

In some countries or regions, high school education is highly valued and expected on resumes. In others, it’s considered unnecessary unless you’re just starting your career.

3. Your Career Stage Matters

If you’re a recent graduate, your high school education might still be relevant. If you’re a seasoned professional, it’s probably best left off.


The Absurdity of It All: Why High School Feels Like a Time Capsule

Let’s be honest: high school often feels like a different lifetime. The person you were in high school is likely very different from the person you are today. Including it on your resume can feel like unearthing a time capsule filled with awkward yearbook photos and questionable fashion choices. But sometimes, that time capsule holds valuable artifacts—skills, experiences, and achievements that still matter.


Practical Tips for Deciding Whether to Include High School Education

  1. Consider Your Audience

    • Who is reading your resume? If it’s an employer who values formal education, high school might be worth mentioning. If not, skip it.
  2. Evaluate Your Experience

    • If you have a strong work history or advanced degrees, high school is probably unnecessary. If not, it can help fill gaps.
  3. Think About Relevance

    • Is your high school education relevant to the job you’re applying for? If yes, include it. If no, leave it out.
  4. Keep It Concise

    • If you do include high school education, keep it brief. List the school name, graduation year, and any notable achievements.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Should I include my GPA from high school on my resume?

Only if you’re a recent graduate and your GPA is exceptional (think 4.0 or higher). Otherwise, it’s usually unnecessary.

2. What if I didn’t graduate from high school?

If you didn’t graduate, you can still list the years you attended and any relevant coursework or achievements. Alternatively, you can focus on other qualifications, like work experience or certifications.

3. Can I include high school extracurricular activities on my resume?

Yes, but only if they’re relevant to the job or demonstrate important skills (like leadership, teamwork, or creativity).

4. How do I format high school education on my resume?

Keep it simple. For example:

  • High School Diploma
    Springfield High School, Springfield, IL
    Graduated: May 2015

5. Is it ever too late to remove high school education from my resume?

Not at all! As you gain more experience, it’s perfectly fine to remove high school education to make room for more relevant information.


In the end, whether or not to include high school education on your resume is a personal decision. It depends on your career stage, industry, and the story you want to tell. Just remember: your resume is a living document. As you grow and evolve, so should it. And if high school feels like a time capsule, maybe it’s time to leave it buried—or at least keep it tucked away in the back of the closet.