Cover Letters

A cover letter is a vital component of your job application and serves as an introduction to your resume or CV. More than just a formality, your cover letter is your opportunity to present your value proposition, highlighting the unique blend of skills, experiences, and accomplishments that make you a strong candidate for the role. It’s your chance to tell your professional story in a way that aligns with the specific needs and goals of the employer. In a competitive job market, a well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out by showcasing your enthusiasm, personality, and understanding of the organization’s mission or industry.

Cover letters should always be tailored to the specific position you’re applying for. While it might be tempting to reuse the same letter for multiple applications, hiring managers can easily tell when a letter is generic. A targeted letter that addresses the job description and explains how your background aligns with the role will be far more effective. You can often reuse certain elements for similar positions, but it’s important to customize key sections, especially your opening paragraph, examples of relevant achievements, and closing statement to match the language and priorities of each job listing.

Unless a job posting specifically states not to include one, it’s always recommended to submit a cover letter along with your resume. To help you get started, we’ve included a few examples and tips below. These resources will guide you in crafting a compelling and professional letter that strengthens your application and helps you make a positive first impression.

Cover Letter Writing Tips:

• Cover Letter Writing Guide

Cover Letters Examples & Template:

• Skills-Based Example
• Narrative Example
• Computational Social Science Internship Example
• Predoctoral Research (Economics) Example
• International Relations Internship Example
• Traditional Template