Did Your High School Student Set Up a LinkedIn Profile Yet?
You may find this surprising, but the minimum age to create a profile on LinkedIn is only 14. While
most view it as a career-focused networking platform, getting a headstart on LinkedIn as a high
school student has numerous advantages.
College Admissions
With less than 10% of high school students using LinkedIn, a strong, professional profile is
a perfect opportunity to stand out from peers on college applications. Although there is no
official place for it on the Common App, sharing a profile link in the extra information
section may very well pique the interest of admissions officers during the evaluation
process. Also, visibility allows teachers to track progress and write stronger letters of
recommendation.
College Success
In college, an established LinkedIn profile enables students to nurture connections with
professors and mentors, enriching their college experience. Additionally, LinkedIn makes it
easy to search for specific companies, network with professionals, and become a stronger
candidate for internships and jobs.
Digital Footprint
As parents, we constantly warn our teens about the pitfalls of social media– no Snapchat
posts you wouldn't want Grandma to see– but is that enough? If we shift the focus from
what people shouldn’t see to what we want them to see, social media can actually be a
powerful tool for showcasing achievements. A significant LinkedIn presence allows
students to control their own narrative and show they are serious about their future.
Leveraging LinkedIn to Enhance College Applications:
✔ Post Updates: Share achievements, reflections on competitions, or articles.
✔ Engage with Colleges: Follow universities, comment on their posts, connect with alumni.
✔ Message recent graduates from your target colleges for insights.
✔ Join Groups: Participate in LinkedIn groups related to your intended major or industry.
✔ Find Scholarships & Internships: Organizations often post opportunities directly.
Want My Profile Template?
I’ve created a free, full-length guide that includes a profile template and tips to help high school
students stand out on LinkedIn. Send me your contact info, and I’ll deliver it straight to your inbox!
Allison@collegeboundfuture.com 516.551.2402
Up Next: Surprising ways to stand out in the Common App Activities Section!
