1. Building Your Cover Letter
E. Siler

2. Four Samples with Commentary
• The four samples you are about to read were
taken from cover letters written by previous
students.
• In all cases details (country of
origin, languages, degrees, companies etc.) have
been changed to hide the identity of the
students.
• I have bolded places where the student directly
speaks to requirements asked for in the job
description.

3. Sample 1
• During the last four years at Washington State
University, I have studied micro-biochemistry where I
learned many laboratory skills in my
biology, microbiology, biochemistry, and organic
chemistry classes. I am familiar with basic lab
procedures and protocols, including the safety
procedures that minimize any risk of accidents that
will possibly occur in the lab. I know how to analyze
DNA sequences and I also have experience with
extracting and cloning DNA, and with the
maintenance and operation of genetics equipment.
Additionally, I am a sociable person and studied
abroad in England and Canada, which will help me
relate to students and talk with them.

4. Sample 2
• I am enthusiastic and willing to learn. As a member of the Swedish
Students Association in Washington State University, I have learned other
countries’ culture, and how I communicate with diverse people in the
world. Especially I taught basket making to children to introduce what
kinds of tradition Sweden have. While doing Swedish Night and campaign
to increase awareness about Sweden , I have more deep affection for my
country, and self-esteem as a Sweden. Therefore, I believe these
experiences have given me a good work ethic and have learned the ability
to work well as a team.
•
• I have lessons about communication and work ethics, so I think it is time
to get career for my major, finance. I am interested in finance analysis
which is related to balance sheet, income statement and statement of
cash flows, and want to work for these as a start. Furthermore, I desire to
build more strong knowledge for my major through this internship. Please
accept my resume and this letter as application for an internship position
at Bank of America.

5. Sample 3
• I am passionate about mechanical design and have
considerable experience in 3D-CAD modeling with
SolidWorks. My knowledge of injection molding comes
from my undergraduate level engineering manufacturing
processes class. However, I want to further enhance my
skills by gaining technical expertise in various
manufacturing techniques Samsung uses. Because
undergraduate level engineering projects involve extensive
group work, I am extremely comfortable at working with
people from diverse backgrounds and have always shared
a good rapport with all my teammates. This position is also
interesting because I enjoy travelling and am willing to
relocate regardless of time and place. My enclosed resume
gives further details about my background.

6. Sample 4
• Based on your description of the ideal candidate, I can offer the
Hilton Hotels a university degree in Business, well developed
fluency in English, German and French and organizational skills and
customer service orientation that I gained in almost four years of
working in Paris, the USA and Turkey. Some of that experience has
been as a guest relation officer as well as in the field of resort-level
entertainment, working with guests from Eastern and Western
Europe and the Middle East. My experience in the resort industry
enabled me to develop excellent inter-personal skills, and the
ability to work well with others, in both supervisory and support
staff roles. Extensive international experience has helped me to
build rapport with individuals from all cultural backgrounds and to
maintain an upbeat and welcoming outlook. I understand the
parameters of this position and am willing to relocate and travel.
Please see my resume for additional information about my
experience.

7. The Third Paragraph
• Features
• Short
• Restatement of the thesis in some way --- that
you hope to connect to the company.
• Invitation to look at your resume.
• Invitation/willingness to give more information
• Express a desire to meet.
• Point out your availability.
• Explain what your next steps are.

8. Sample 1
• I appreciate your taking the time to review my
credentials. To arrange an interview time that
is convenient for you, please contact me at the
above telephone number or email address. I
look forward to speaking with you about my
future in finance analysis.

9. Sample 2
• I hope you will agree that I possess the essential
credentials required for this position. If given the
chance, I would like to prove this to you in
person. Please feel free to contact me at your
convenience. I can be reached via cellphone
anytime during the day or via email. My contact
information is on the letterhead. Thank you for
taking time to consider my request and I am
looking forward to hearing from you.
•

10. Sample 3
• I hope it will be possible to arrange a personal
online or phone interview to discuss my
qualifications further. Should you need to
reach me, please feel free to call at 509-555-
1212, 8am- 12am Pacific Time, or email me at
whatagreatcandidate@who.com. Thank you
for considering my application and I look
forward to talking with you.
•