The Importance of a Portfolio for College Students: Valuable Asset or Unnecessary Burden?

By Taye Johnson

With the influx of layoffs, ghost jobs and hiring freezes in 2025, standing out from the crowd is more crucial than ever. College students, in particular, are often told that having a portfolio of their work projects or schoolwork is a key factor in distinguishing themselves from other job applicants. But is this true for all students, regardless of their major or intended career path? Is the investment of time and resources into creating a portfolio truly worth it?

The Case for Creating a Portfolio

A portfolio provides a tangible way for students to showcase their skills, creativity and learning progress. It goes beyond the limitations of a resume by offering a visual and interactive representation of a student's abilities and accomplishments. For students in creative fields such as graphic design, film, architecture or writing, a portfolio is a must-have asset. It allows them to showcase their best work, express their unique style, and illustrate their growth over time.

In an era where many job applications are processed through automated systems, a portfolio can make a significant difference. Including a link to a well-curated online portfolio on a resume or cover letter can help candidates stand out and encourage potential employers to engage more deeply with their applications. A portfolio provides a competitive edge by demonstrating a proactive approach to personal and professional development.

Portfolios aren't just for job applications; they are also invaluable for networking and building a personal brand. A professional portfolio can serve as a central part of your online presence, making it easier for mentors, peers and industry professionals to see your work and understand your expertise. Portfolios can open doors to opportunities like internships, freelance gigs and collaborative projects.

A portfolio can help students reflect on their learning experiences, highlight achievements and skills, and plan for future growth. (Photo credit: Freepik)

Challenges and Considerations

At the same time, creating and maintaining a portfolio can be time-consuming and may require financial resources, especially for students who need to purchase domain names, hosting services or professional tools and software. Balancing this with the demands of college coursework and extracurricular activities can be challenging.

While portfolios are essential in creative industries, their value in other fields can be less clear-cut. For students pursuing careers in areas like finance, engineering or healthcare, the benefits of a portfolio might not be as immediate or obvious. In these cases, other elements—such as internships, volunteer experiences, or certifications—might carry more weight on a resume.

A portfolio is only as good as its contents, and outdated or irrelevant work can detract from its effectiveness. Students need to commit to regularly updating their portfolio, which can be a daunting task amidst the busy college life.

For many college students, creating a portfolio is a wise investment that can pay dividends in terms of job opportunities, networking and personal branding. However, it's important to consider your field of study, career goals and available resources before diving in. A portfolio should be a carefully curated collection, not just a repository for every project or paper. With the right approach, it can be a powerful tool for launching a successful career.

Ultimately, the decision to invest in a portfolio depends on individual circumstances and goals. Like any aspect of college life and career planning, it requires thought, dedication and a clear understanding of its potential impact on your future.