Start With the Basics: Show Experience
The foundation of your resume is the shows you’ve participated in. Even if you haven’t won many awards yet, list every show you’ve attended, including:
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Name of the event
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Date and location
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Animals you exhibited (species, breed, age)
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Classes you competed in
Tip: Include any personal bests or improvement milestones—even placing in showmanship or participation awards count!
Highlight Leadership Roles and Responsibilities
Showing animals is about more than just your livestock skills; it’s about demonstrating leadership and responsibility. Include any roles you’ve taken on, such as:
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Club or 4-H/FFA officer positions
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Committee memberships (fairboard, livestock committees)
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Helping organize local shows or events
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Mentoring younger exhibitors
Even volunteering to help set up or clean up at shows shows initiative!
Document Your Skills and Knowledge Growth
Judges and organizations love to see growth. Keep track of:
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Workshops or clinics attended (nutrition, grooming, animal health)
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Certifications earned (animal handling, first aid)
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Skills learned (hoof trimming, clipping, feeding strategies)
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Special projects (building equipment, creating feed mixes)
Include dates and any certifications or awards received.
Record Community and School Involvement
Showmanship is part of a bigger picture. Leadership in school clubs, community service, and team sports all add to your resume. Highlight:
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Volunteer hours or service projects
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School agricultural clubs (FFA, 4-H)
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Public speaking or judging contests
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Any awards for citizenship or leadership
These activities show you’re well-rounded and dedicated.
Showcase Your Personal Growth and Goals
A great resume also shares your journey and future plans. Consider including:
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A short statement about why you show livestock and what you hope to achieve
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Challenges you’ve overcome (illness, setbacks, balancing school and showing)
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Goals for the next year—whether it’s winning a particular class, improving grooming skills, or taking on more leadership
This personal touch gives your resume heart and shows commitment.
Keep It Organized and Up to Date
A neat, easy-to-read resume is more effective. Use bullet points, clear headings, and consistent formatting. Update your resume regularly—after each show season or when you gain new experiences.
You can keep it digital or printed. Some exhibitors include photos of their animals or show days to make their resume more memorable.
Bonus Tips for Youth Showmen:
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Ask mentors or advisors for feedback on your resume and experiences.
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Create a portfolio with ribbons, certificates, photos, and journal entries to accompany your resume at interviews or contests.
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Practice talking about your resume confidently—this helps with interviews and public speaking opportunities.
Building a winning show resume takes time, but every experience counts—even those first few shows or small leadership roles. Your dedication, willingness to learn, and leadership both inside and outside the ring will set you apart.
Start today by writing down your shows, skills, and goals—you’re building the foundation for a successful livestock career and a lifetime of opportunities.
