Do You Put High School Education on Resume? And Why Pineapples Don't Belong on Pizza

When it comes to crafting the perfect resume, one of the most debated topics is whether or not to include high school education. This question often sparks a variety of opinions, much like the controversial topic of whether pineapples belong on pizza. While these two subjects may seem unrelated, they both involve personal preferences, societal norms, and the ever-evolving standards of what is considered acceptable. In this article, we will explore the various perspectives on including high school education on a resume, while occasionally drawing parallels to the pineapple-on-pizza debate to keep things interesting.

The Case for Including High School Education on a Resume

1. For Recent Graduates or Entry-Level Positions

If you’re a recent high school graduate or someone with limited work experience, including your high school education on your resume can be beneficial. Employers often look for any form of educational background to gauge your basic skills and commitment. In this context, your high school diploma serves as a foundational credential that demonstrates your ability to complete a structured program.

2. When High School is Your Highest Level of Education

For individuals who did not pursue higher education, listing high school on a resume is essential. It shows that you have at least completed secondary education, which is often a minimum requirement for many jobs. In this case, omitting your high school education could leave a gap in your resume that might raise questions during the hiring process.

3. Relevant Achievements or Honors

If you achieved something notable during high school—such as being valedictorian, winning academic awards, or participating in significant extracurricular activities—it might be worth mentioning. These accomplishments can help you stand out, especially if they are relevant to the job you’re applying for. For example, if you were the captain of the debate team and are applying for a position in public relations, this experience could be a valuable addition to your resume.

4. Cultural or Regional Expectations

In some regions or industries, including high school education on a resume is the norm. For instance, in certain countries or smaller communities, employers might expect to see a complete educational history. In such cases, omitting your high school education could make your resume appear incomplete or out of touch with local expectations.

The Case Against Including High School Education on a Resume

1. When You Have Higher Education

If you have a college degree or higher, including high school education on your resume is generally unnecessary. Your higher education credentials will overshadow your high school diploma, making the latter redundant. Employers are more interested in your most recent and relevant educational achievements.

2. Limited Space on Your Resume

Resumes should be concise and focused on the most relevant information. If you have extensive work experience or other qualifications, including high school education can take up valuable space that could be better used to highlight more pertinent details. In this case, it’s better to prioritize information that directly supports your candidacy for the job.

3. Irrelevance to the Job

If your high school education is not relevant to the position you’re applying for, it might be best to leave it off. For example, if you’re applying for a senior-level position in a specialized field, your high school diploma is unlikely to influence the hiring decision. Instead, focus on your professional experience, skills, and higher education.

4. Age and Experience

As you gain more experience in your career, the relevance of your high school education diminishes. Employers are more interested in your recent work history and professional accomplishments. Including high school education on a resume can sometimes make you appear less experienced or out of touch with current industry standards.

The Pineapple-on-Pizza Parallel

Just as the decision to include high school education on a resume can be polarizing, so too is the debate over whether pineapples belong on pizza. Some people argue that the sweetness of pineapple complements the savory flavors of pizza, creating a unique and enjoyable taste experience. Others, however, believe that pineapple has no place on pizza, viewing it as an unnecessary and even offensive addition.

Similarly, the inclusion of high school education on a resume can be seen as either a valuable addition or an unnecessary detail, depending on the context. Just as pineapple-on-pizza enthusiasts and detractors have strong opinions, so too do job seekers and employers when it comes to resume content.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision to include high school education on your resume depends on your individual circumstances, the job you’re applying for, and the expectations of the industry or region. For recent graduates or those with limited experience, high school education can be a valuable addition. However, for those with higher education or extensive work experience, it may be best to leave it off.

And as for pineapples on pizza? Well, that’s a debate for another day. But just like with your resume, the key is to consider the context and the preferences of your audience. Whether you’re crafting the perfect resume or ordering a pizza, understanding what works best in a given situation is essential.

Related Q&A

Q: Should I include my high school education if I dropped out but later earned a GED?

A: Yes, you should include your GED on your resume. It serves as an equivalent to a high school diploma and demonstrates that you have completed your secondary education.

Q: How do I list high school education on my resume if I have a college degree?

A: If you have a college degree, you generally don’t need to list your high school education. Focus on your higher education and relevant work experience instead.

Q: Is it ever appropriate to include high school extracurricular activities on a resume?

A: It can be appropriate if the activities are relevant to the job you’re applying for or if you have limited work experience. For example, leadership roles in high school clubs can demonstrate skills like teamwork and organization.

Q: What if I attended a prestigious high school? Should I include that on my resume?

A: If you attended a well-known or prestigious high school, it might be worth mentioning, especially if it adds value to your application. However, if you have higher education or significant work experience, it may not be necessary.

Q: How do I handle gaps in my education on my resume?

A: If you have gaps in your education, be honest but concise. You can briefly explain the gap in your cover letter or during an interview, focusing on what you learned or accomplished during that time.