The ideal length for your resume is one-page, especially if you have fewer than 10 years of experience. If you’re starting to increase the font size in order to make your resume more impressive, you’re ignoring the bigger problem: You need more content! In this article, we offer a few ways to help lengthen your resume so you can impress review committees. 

Skills

Having a range of skills listed on your resume helps you come off as well-rounded and resourceful. Take a look at some examples of how certain skills can help when you’re applying for jobs:

• Microsoft Excel: This skill will come in handy in fields that organize documentation and data. Careers that you might consider if you have this Excel expertise include medical librarians, healthcare documentation specialist and medical science liaison.
• Adobe Photoshop or Adobe Illustrator: If you’re aiming to work in design — think the tasks that medical illustrators/animators take on — being certified in Photoshop or Illustrator could be what puts you above the rest of the applicants to your ideal program.  
• Languages: Being able to speak different languages helps when assisting patients from different cultures. Specifically, health care interpreters need the ability to communicate fluently and clearly.

Certifications

While certifications aren’t necessarily expected if you haven’t even started college yet, they can make your resume look more impressive. They communicate that you’re proactive and dedicated to learning. You might consider the following certifications to add more bulk to your resume:

• CPR or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation certification certifies that you’re able to provide an emergency lifesaving procedure to those whose hearts have stopped beating.
• CNA or Certified Nursing Assistant certification lets you work in certain medical settings and work with nurses.
• First Aid training allows you to provide care to injured adults or children during a crisis.

Volunteer experiences

The average American volunteers about 23 hours a year, and 29% of high school students take part in community service. Here are some volunteer opportunities to consider:

• Volunteering in shelters could give you a chance to interact with those who you hope to work with in your professional career. Students interested in social work might consider volunteering in a homeless shelter, and those destined for veterinary studies would benefit greatly from volunteering at an animal shelter. 
• Students looking to learn about working with older patients should consider spending some time at nursing homes, rehabilitation facilities, senior centers or at retirement communities. Professions in geriatrics would benefit greatly from the experience.

Looking for other options to boost your resume? Check out our article on planning an alternative spring break.