This is your cover letter foundation and pre-work for a potential interview. Don’t skip it. 

Read the job description like a document, not marketing copy: 

• Highlight every skill, responsibility, and requirement listed 

• Note keywords that appear multiple times 

• Look for the strategic purpose of this job – every position is designed to support a specific business need 

Research the company:  

• Understand what they actually do (not just their tagline) 

• Read topics that are relevant for this specific role: recent news, their mission statement, what makes them different from competitors 

• Find one genuine thing that appeals to you about them—their impact, culture, or values 

Use this research to determine if the role is a good fit for your needs. 

Once you understand what they want and what you bring, organize your evidence. 

Create a simple list:  

• For each major requirement in the job description, write down 1-2 specific examples from your experience (coursework, projects, internships, volunteer work) that demonstrate that skill 

• Pull out 3-4 key themes or stories that best show your fit 

Identify why this experience connects to this specific role. 

Structure: 3-4 short paragraphs 

Paragraph 1: Your opening  

• Name the specific position (or address the “hiring manager”) and where you found it (this helps hiring managers track your application) 

• Connect your interest to this specific job 

• Summarize the key elements you’ll discuss in each paragraph (a “topic sentence” or “thesis statement”) 

• Be concise 

Paragraph 2 & 3: Your fit  

• Organize each paragraph around a key theme or skill from the job description 

• Use specific examples and accomplishments, not generic statements 

• Explain not just what you did but also why you made specific decisions – this helps show your thinking aligns with theirs 

• Reference how this experience connects to your preparation for this specific role 

• Avoid restating your resume; instead, put your accomplishments in context and explain what you learned or can contribute 

Paragraph 4: Your closing  

• Summarize what makes you a strong candidate without using the word “perfect” or “passion” 

• Reiterate your genuine interest  

• Include a clear call to action: “I’d welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background aligns with your needs” 

Formatting:  

• Use the same header as your resume  

• Keep it to one page 

Save as PDF to preserve formatting.

Typos and grammar mistakes can cost you an interview. 

• Read it out loud to catch grammatical issues and hear where sentences feel clunky 

• Have others review it. Ask a trusted friend, family member, advisor, or visit the Career Studio for feedback 

• Check the application instructions. Make sure you’re following their format and submission requirements exactly (some companies want the cover letter and resume in one document) 

• Take time between writing and reviewing. A few hours away helps you see mistakes you’d otherwise miss. 

Remember: You are responsible for the final product. It should use your voice and words. Consider feedback but ensure you stand behind what you submit.