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Home > Table of Contents > Chapter 9. Professional Letters > Sample Cover Letters

Sample Cover Letters
As with resumes, great cover letters tend to be based on excellent models, so below is a pdf where you can download a variety of models that
you can use. The letters are organized by level of experience, beginning with a letter from a sophomore seeking an internship and moving on
through a graduate student seeking a research position. Along the way you’ll also find a letter from a returning adult student with military service
and a graduated senior seeking an international sales position outside of her field. Despite this variety, all of these sample letters are successful,
for reasons analyzed below.

From a form standpoint, all ten sample letters are kept to one page, in some cases by the writer using size 11 font rather than size 12, and by
skipping fewer lines or no lines between letter sections. All of the letters include ample white space with lines skipped between paragraphs so
that the material is not crowded, and they all include full addresses with the writer’s address and signature aligned with each other. Note also that
the sample letters include a minimum of three paragraphs and in some cases even use one-sentence paragraphs—thus the letter recipient is not
daunted by the task of reading. Finally, in one letter emphasizing skills that the writer has to offer, she goes so far as to enumerate and physically
underscore her skills, indenting the paragraphs in which they appear as well, so that those skills stand out for the reader. Such an approach
exudes confidence without the letter breaking any fundamental rules of form.

As far as content and rhetorical stance, even the first letter by a sophomore includes some specialized material, mentioning CVD reactors, while
other letters provide relevant quantitative information (“I have assisted with . . .nearly 100 Unix workstations”) and qualitative assessment ( . . .
an experience that made me a confident public speaker.”). Most importantly, we see these writers showcasing their homework about the
companies, noting IBM’s “constant striving to become a six-sigma company,” citing part of the company’s mission statement verbatim, and
dropping names of company employees. Through these tactics, we realize that these letters have been tailored to the specific job circumstances,
and we recognize that we are reading purposeful, informed writing. One of the most impressive sentences in these letters tackles the difficult
rhetorical challenge head-on:

“Admittedly, I do not have a specifically business- or technology-related degree; nonetheless I have some proficiency with both as
well as a sharp, probing mind and a keen, demonstrated interest.”

In her letter, this student goes on to prove her bold claim, and the letter got her the interview, which landed her the job.

Click here to download a pdf of ten sample cover letters. [1]

Source URL:https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/c9_p3.html

Links
[1] https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/sites/www.e-education.psu.edu.styleforstudents/files/file/chapter 9/Letters1_new

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/node/1786

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/c9.html

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/sites/www.e-education.psu.edu.styleforstudents/files/file/chapter%209/Letters1_new

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/c9_p3.html

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Home > Table of Contents > Chapter 9. Professional Letters > Sample Professional Letters

Sample Professional Letters
In the sample letters available in pdf form below, we trace the story of one particular job seeker from her query for company information to her
thank you letter after her interview to a sample letter of acceptance (as well as a sample letter of decline) once she receives a job offer. Though
these letters are hypothetical, they are modeled on real letters that I have worked on with students over the years, and they represent real
scenarios and decisions that students are faced with—scenarios that must be responded to in writing.

In form, the letters are all professional and conventional, following the same overall format guidelines that apply to cover letters. In tone, the
letters are increasingly warm and personal, especially as the writer develops a relationship with the company representative whom she has met.
In content, the letters are specific to the circumstances (“‘Project Paradigm’ holds a special interest for me . . .”) and both efficient and
purposeful, so that they can read quickly and comprehended easily. Note that even in the final example, which declines the job offer, the writer
remains cordial, specific and explanatory, and hopeful that she may have further contact with the company in the future. In a word, she remains
professional.

Click here to download a pdf of five sample professional letters. [1]

Source URL:https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/c9_p5.html

Links
[1] https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/sites/www.e-education.psu.edu.styleforstudents/files/file/chapter 9/Letters2_new

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/node/1786

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/c9.html

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/sites/www.e-education.psu.edu.styleforstudents/files/file/chapter%209/Letters2_new

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/c9_p5.html

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Home > Table of Contents > Chapter 9. Professional Letters > Professional Letters

Professional Letters
Beyond the cover letter, you will undoubtedly be faced with the need to write other professional correspondence, be it by e-mail or envelope.
These letters are just as important in that they can also become part of a file devoted to all of your correspondence with a company or individual.
Professional letters you write are likely to be kept in a file along with your resume as part of your permanent record. Letters are also your
opportunity to show professional courtesy, impress companies with your knowledge of and interest in them, and allow readers to know you as a
person. Good letters humanize you. And employers tend to choose people they feel they know—not strangers.

In addition to the cover letter, the other types of professional correspondence you are most likely to write include:

A Query Letter, making a specific request for information.
A Thank You Letter, expressing thanks for an interview or invited visit.
An Acknowledgment Letter, acknowledging the receipt of a job offer or some materials.
A Letter of Decline or Letter of Acceptance, declining or accepting a job offer.

While writing a letter for any of these circumstances, follow the same basic guidelines for tone, appearance, mechanics, and format as you do for
cover letters. However, keep these letters brief—just a few short paragraphs—so they can be read in one-minute’s time. Using a gracious,
professional tone, fill your letter with specifics particular to the circumstances, for example:

The date of your previous correspondence or interview.
The names of any other individuals relevant to the correspondence.
Details about what action, if any, you want your audience to take.
Clarifications of any points worth repeating or open to potential misunderstanding.
Carefully worded, warm, personal remarks, especially if you have had repeated contact with the same person, and especially if you are
asking for a favor.

Follow these guidelines carefully and you can be assured that your letter will inspire your reader to take appropriate action, whether that is simply
to place your letter into a file respectfully or perform a more involved task that you requested professionally.

Self-Study

For further advice on writing professional letters, I recommend:

“Writing the Basic Business Letter” article from Purdue’s Online Writing Lab (OWL) [1]

“Writing Professional Letters” guide from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay [2]

Source URL:https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/c9_p4.html

Links
[1] http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/653/01/ [2] http://www.uwgb.edu/careers/PDF-Files/Professional-Letters-Guide

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/node/1786

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/c9.html

http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/653/01/

http://www.uwgb.edu/careers/PDF-Files/Professional-Letters-Guide

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/c9_p4.html

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Home > Table of Contents > Chapter 9. Professional Letters > Writing Cover Letters

Writing Cover Letters
When reading cover letters, the key benchmark I use is simple: Do I get to know both the person and the professional? As we read a cover letter,
we should have a sense that no other candidate could have written this particular document in this particular way. Hence, we respect and honor
the individual.

In conversation, the term “cover letter” is used loosely to mean any professional letter that you write in an attempt to get a job, with the term
“cover” denoting that the letter is usually a “cover piece” designed to introduce and accompany your resume. Thus, too many writers think of the
cover letter as mere mechanical introductory fluff—disposable goods—when in fact it can be more important than your resume.

The best tip that I have heard on cover letter writing is that the letter is for the audience, not for you. Certainly you are selling yourself, but you do
that best by molding your skills to what an employer needs and by knowing all that you can about your audience. This tells you that you should
visit a company’s website, read the company literature, and have a specific person’s name and title to write to (you can always request this by
phone or e-mail before you write). In sum, know what your audience is interested in and how you might fit into a company’s plans, not the other
way around. Unless an employer instructs you otherwise, always include a cover letter with your resume as you apply for a job.

Tone: Making it Sound Good

The proper tone for the cover letter is one of an informed, straightforward, courteous, relaxed, literate writer.
Use “I” comfortably as a sentence subject, but avoid being too informal—overusing contractions or jargon could make you appear
unprofessional.
Avoid being too cocky, aggressive, idealistic, or unrealistic; come off as mature, self-aware, and confident.

Appearance and Mechanics: Making it Look Good

Limit cover letters to one page, and type them using single-spaced or 1.5-spaced typing, with about one-inch margins or more on all sides
of the page.
Skip lines between paragraphs.
Favor short paragraphs over long ones.
Use highly readable, tight, fonts, such as Helvetica or Times, and point sizes no larger than 12 and no smaller than 10.
Spell check, then proofread the hard copy carefully. Present the final version of the letter on durable white or off-white paper.
Mail your letter and resume flat in a large envelope rather than folded in a small one. That way they will be easier to read and Xerox.

The Heading and Greeting: Following the Formats

At the top right or left corner of the page, type your address, your phone number, your e-mail address, and the date. Below that, at the left
margin, put the name, title, and address of the person receiving the letter.
Skip a line or two, then type “Dear,” the person’s title (Dr., Ms., Mr.), name, and a colon.
If possible, find out the proper title, spelling, and gender of the receiver of the letter (all it usually takes is a phone call or a little web
surfing). If you cannot be certain of the recipient’s gender, it is acceptable to use both the first and last name (i.e., “Dear Jan Morris”). If no
name is available, use a logical title such as “Dear Human Resources Representative.” Greetings such as “Dear Sir or Madam” and “To
Whom it May Concern” are old-fashioned—some even find them offensive—and should be avoided.

The Opening Paragraph: Showcasing Your Homework

Ideally, open with a reference to how you derived knowledge of the company or position.
If possible, provide context by some artful name dropping (“Ms. Judith Sowers, a Quality Control Specialist in your Meredith plant, informs
me that you are seeking . . .”). Otherwise, simply be forthright about why you are writing the letter (“I am writing to you because . . .”).
Include particulars about the company’s activities and vision—prove that you have done your homework and know something about the
company’s products and mission. Even quote a mission statement if you can.
Establish your own professional context by naming your major and school.

The Body Paragraphs: Selling your Skills

One paragraph may suffice here, but use more if necessary, especially if you have several different skills or experiences to sell. Stick to
one topic per paragraph.
Through concrete examples, provide evidence of your work ethic and success—cite courses, co-ops, papers, projects, theses, or
internships you have completed. Make your examples both quantitative and qualitative. Some writers use a bulleted list to introduce
narrative examples of their skills. Some even provide URLs for their home pages or other web pages they helped to create.
Introduce your resume (“As the enclosed resume shows . . .”) and interpret it for your audience rather than simply repeat its details. Apply
your education, work experience, and activities directly to the job, proving that you are a highly capable candidate.

The Closing Paragraph and Signoff: Exiting Gracefully

Keep your closing short and simple. Do not waste time. Be gracious and sincere, not falsely flattering nor pushy. Respectfully indicate your
desire for further action, reminding the company of your availability.
Remembering that a company could try to call you over a break or during the summer, indicate relevant phone numbers right in the text.
Provide your e-mail address as well.

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents

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https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/node/1786

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/c9.html

Under the final paragraph, skip a line or two, then, directly under your heading address, type “Sincerely,” then handwrite and type your
name beneath.
Indicate that a resume is included along with the letter by typing the word “Enclosure” at the left margin near the bottom of the page.

Self-Study

Loads of sample cover letters are available online. Here are four URLs:

Sample cover letters from LiveCareer website [1]

Advice and sample cover letters from careermatch.com [2]

Source URL:https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/c9_p2.html

Links
[1] https://www.livecareer.com/cover-letter-examples [2] https://www.careermatch.com/job-prep/apply-for-a-job/cover-letters/cover-letter-full-guide/

https://www.livecareer.com/cover-letter-examples

https://www.careermatch.com/job-prep/apply-for-a-job/cover-letters/cover-letter-full-guide/

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/c9_p2.html

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/target=’_blank’

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/target=’_blank’

“Blind” Cover Letter by a Sophomore Seeking an Internship

444 Montrose Avenue
State College, PA 16801
(814) 235-6783
jsample88@psu.edu

February 8, 2009

Ms. Gale DeLaveaux
E304/C216
DuPont Experimental Station
Wilmington, DE 19880-0304

Dear Ms. DeLaveaux:

At the suggestion of Dr. John Lerner, Associate Professor of Materials Science and
Engineering at the Pennsylvania State University, I am writing to inquire about any possible
summer internship positions for 2009. I understand that you are working with thermodynamic,
kinetic, and finite element modeling of reactions and flow in CVD reactors.

I am currently a sophomore in Materials Science and Engineering at Penn State. I have a
thorough background in mathematics, chemistry, and physics, and I am enthusiastic about
applying this background in a summer position where I will learn from experienced scientists in
a research environment. My primary interests are in thermodynamics and processing, and my
interests continue to expand as my education broadens.

I am eager to discuss my background with you at your convenience. Dr. Alan Kimel
(814-865-4962), Associate Head of the Materials Science and Engineering Program at Penn
State, is also happy to speak with you about my credentials. My daytime phone number is (814)
235-6783, and my e-mail is jsample88@psu.edu.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
John Sample
John Sample

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Cover Letter by a Junior Seeking an Internship, Stressing Company Information

642 Irvin Hall
University Park, Pa. 16802
(814) 862-7650
jsample99@psu.edu

8 December, 2008
Stephen Rometo, Performance Engineer
General Electric International, Inc.
1 River Road, Building 55, Room 236
Schenectady, NY 12345

Dear Mr. Rometo:

Reading the recent Fortune article declaring GE the most admired company in America for the
fourth year in a row, I was inspired to learn more about your company. I explored the GE
website and attended a recent GE information session held at Penn State, and I am writing to
inquire about possible summer internship opportunities for 2009. The valuable experience in
manufacturing I gained in a previous internship makes me a strong candidate for an internship
position with the Power Systems Performance Evaluations Group.

My search for the best way to apply my electrical engineering degree sent me last summer to an
internship with Motorola in a wafer fabrication lab. I found that I thrived in the manufacturing
environment. During this time, I was the owner of a metal deposition machine and a screen print
tool. I acquired many crucial skills such as writing specifications and maintaining equipment. I
also learned many valuable lessons about manufacturing, including the nuances of
communication between operators and engineers and effective methods of implementing process
changes. While completing my internship, three documents I authored made their way into the
factory’s specification literature and I initiated three process changes. I was also honored with a
scholarship award given to one summer intern who shows exceptional leadership skills.

Knowing first hand the value of an internship with a company well-respected for excellence in
manufacturing, I am especially interested in GE Power Systems. I am impressed with your
company’s attention to its customers, especially in its new e-commerce initiatives such as the
power turbine simulation web pages—a creative way to include the turbine industry in this new
type of business. Finally, I respect your company’s attention to the community, as seen in the
number of community service projects that GE consistently undertakes.

My resume is enclosed for your reference, and I am readily available for an interview. If you
need any further information, I can be reached at (814) 862-7650. Thank you.

Sincerely,
Jane Sample
Jane Sample
Enclosure: resume

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Cover Letter by a Senior Enumerating and Emphasizing Skills

927 W. Barnard St., Apt.#1
State College, PA 16801
(827) 841-6836
April 8, 2008

Wilson Geosciences
379 Sonoma Lane
Sonoma, CA 95476

Dear Personnel Representative:

I will be graduating in May from Penn State University with a degree in Geosciences
(emphasizing hydrogeology) and am seeking employment as an entry-level hydrogeologist.
There are three primary skills that I have developed to apply as an entry-level hydrogeologist:

1. Field skills and experience, which are usually primary responsibilities in entry-level

positions. I have conducted my own research for my senior thesis, which involved
implementing borehole dilution tests to determine the groundwater velocity in a coal
aquifer. I also have extensive coursework field experience, ranging from summer field
school to water and soil sampling at polluted sites.

2. A strong interest in contaminant transport and groundwater modeling. This interest,

coupled with good computer skills, provides opportunities for the use of groundwater and
chemical modeling software packages. Hydrogeology and geochemistry coursework have
equipped me with the theoretical basis for modeling, and an introduction to software
packages. My work experience has also involved extensive PC skills. Although I have
had only preliminary opportunities to apply these skills to groundwater modeling
packages, I am confident that I can become proficient with such packages.

3. Good communication skills. Good writing and speaking skills allow for effective

communication within a company and with clients. My studies have provided me with
quality writing experience. I am currently completing my senior thesis, which involves a
written and a 30-minute multimedia public presentation. Throughout my studies, I actively
worked to improve my writing and gain experience writing for a variety of audiences.

My resume is enclosed for your reference. I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to
discuss my career opportunities with your company. Please feel free to contact me at (827) 841-
6836. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,
Jane Sample
Jane Sample

Enclosure

These pages were downloaded from Style for Students Online, available at https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/

Cover Letter by a Senior Emphasizing IT Skills

999 Lions Hall
University Park, PA 16802
(814) 585-1000
jsample99@psu.edu

October 1, 2008

William Peterson, Director of Development
Atlas Information and Technology Systems
101 Stevens Drive, Suite 303
Lester, PA 19113-1564

Dear Mr. Peterson:

After recently speaking with Dora Plath, Human Resources Representative, I am responding to
your advertisement for a Systems Administrator in the “Careers in Science and Technology”
section of the September 24 edition of The Philadelphia Inquirer. I am highly interested in
helping Atlas Information and Technology Systems in its “twin mission to provide educational
software products and produce state-of-the-art computation accelerators.” I will graduate from
Penn State in December, 2008, with a B.S. in Information Technology.

As my resume shows, through both coursework and internships I have accrued extensive web
experience. By working as a team member in my Computer Project Design class–aiding in the
creation of three websites–I developed a fluency in HTML, JavaScript, and Java. I also learned
how to administer a website, and I now support several different sites for research groups and
students at Penn State.

I also possess large-site administration skills, having assisted with the administration of nearly
100 Unix workstations, spread over several workgroups with over 500 users. Communicating
with the users, assessing software needs, debugging user code, and writing scripts to make the
administrator’s job easier are but a few of my daily tasks.

Finally, my experience is not limited to the Unix world. As a student intern in a computer lab for
two years, I have administered over 20 Macintoshes and 40 PC-compatibles, including initial
configuration of hardware, software, and network facilities.

I am confident that my package of skills will make me a versatile systems administrator with
your company. I welcome the opportunity for an interview, and can be reached by phone at (814)
585-1000 or e-mail at jsample99@psu.edu.

Sincerely,
Jane Sample
Jane Sample
Enclosure

These pages were downloaded from Style for Students Online, available at https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/

Cover Letter by a Senior Stressing Previous Experience at the Target Company

846 Hammond Hall
University Park, PA 16802
(814) 860-2233

September 23, 2008
Dr. Timothy Brown, Manager
General Technology Division
International Business Machines Corporation
Burlington, VT 19000

Dear Dr. Brown:

After working for IBM and speaking with you about ceramic substrates in electronic packages
over the summer, I have become interested in permanent employment in your Burlington branch.
As you know, I am currently a senior Materials Science and Engineering student (Ceramic
Science Emphasis) at Penn State, and I am seeking an entry-level position that involves working
with the materials utilized in electronic packages.

Experiencing IBM first-hand was gratifying and exciting. Not only was I impressed with the
concern IBM has for the safety of its employees, but I was intrigued by its constant striving to
become a six-sigma company. Along with this goal, IBM faces the challenge of producing
electronic packages that operate faster and are not limited by the speed of the substrates. I want
to be part of a team that faces and meets these kinds of challenges.

As my enclosed resume shows, I have gained valuable experience from both school and
employment. My academic background includes studies of various properties of ceramics with
an emphasis in electrical properties of materials and integrated circuits. I have also expanded my
studies by taking electives in the computer graphics area. Through my employment as a summer
pre-professional for Quality Assurance under Dr. George Slusser, I was exposed to several
analytical techniques to ensure the purity of materials used in chip production. In particular, I
was faced with the task of developing procedures to analyze materials using x-ray fluorescence.
As a result, I was able to validate my findings by comparing them to the findings obtained from
accurate though more tedious analytical techniques. I am confident that my background,
particularly my previous employment at your Quality Assurance division, will be of interest to
you.

After you have reviewed my qualifications, I would welcome the opportunity for an interview. I
can be reached at 814-860-2233. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely yours,
Jane Sample
Jane Sample
jsample99@psu.edu
Enclosure

These pages were downloaded from Style for Students Online, available at https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/

Cover Letter by a Returning Adult Student Stressing Previous Experience

166 Regina Circle
State College, PA 16803
(814)-414-5046
jsample88@psu.edu

March 9, 2008
Maureen O’Neill, Corporate Recruiter
Ecology and Environment, Inc., 368 Pleasant View Drive
Lancaster, NY 14086

Ms. O’Neill:

I am writing to explore the possibility of becoming a part of the Ecology and Environment, Inc. (E & E)
GIS team. This past December I spoke to Kim Powell, an engineer with your company, concerning E &
E’s comprehensive use of GIS technologies to meet the needs of a wide range of clientele. After exploring
the E & E website, I was excited to see that customized GIS application development, 3D analysis and
visualization, and the exploitation of remotely sensed imagery are important components in E & E’s
mission accomplishment. Furthermore, I note that E & E incorporates a wide range of disciplines and
technologies to solve complex, multi-faceted environmental problems. I am a firm believer that the
world’s problems cannot be solved by a single approach or discipline, and it excites me to know that this
concept is part of your company’s vision.

I have specific skills that I believe would make me a solid addition to the E & E GIS team. I have recently
completed a comprehensive course in GIS customization: Programming ArcObjects with VBA.
Additionally, this September, I will complete an advanced course in GIS application development which
covers advanced ArcObjects programming, application packaging and deployment, and web services
development. I have a keen interest in the development of innovative custom-made GIS applications, and
I am eager to become increasingly proficient in this area.

While serving as a Geographic Intelligence Specialist in the U.S. Marine Corps, I had extensive
interaction with clients, developing project requirements, explaining the potentials and limitations of
available technology, and fine-tuning end products. Additionally, I had many opportunities to present
analytical findings and project results to both clients and superiors—an experience that made me a
confident public speaker. I have also had the opportunity, both at the university and in the military, to
train entry-level geospatial analysts in the principles of GIS and remote sensing. I truly enjoy sharing the
knowledge that I acquire alongside others and learning from those around me who are more experienced.

As indicated in my resume, my university education is not yet complete, but will be soon. This summer I
will spend the semester completing 12 credits of required general electives and geography core courses,
graduating in August. I am available for full-time employment at the beginning of September, with the
possibility of working part-time this summer—an opportunity that may facilitate a seamless transition
into the E & E GIS team. I am excited about the prospect of working at this dynamic environmental firm,
and look forward to speaking to you about my career opportunities with Ecology and Environment, Inc.

Sincerely,
John Sample
John Sample
Enclosure

These pages were downloaded from Style for Students Online, available at https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/

Cover Letter by Graduating Senior Stressing Business Background and Training

302 Tener Hall
University Park, PA 16802
(814) 852-1729
jsample88@psu.edu

26 October 2008
Mr. Brian Roberts
Anadarko Petroleum
1201 Lake Robbins Drive
The Woodlands, TX 77380

Dear Mr. Roberts:

At the suggestion of Dr. Mark Lowrey, Professor of Geography at the Pennsylvania State University, I am
writing to inquire about a possible full-time position beginning June 2009. I understand that Anadarko
makes use of ESRI programs and Spotfire DecisionSite Map Interaction Services (Map IS) across the
fields of geology and business analysis to aid in the decision of oil basin exploration – topics that I have
researched thoroughly at Penn State.

I am currently a senior in Geography in the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) option and minoring
in Global Business Strategies in the Earth, Energy, and Materials Industries. As my resume shows, I was
recently an intern at Dewberry and Davis, LLC, an engineering consulting group that works closely with
the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). At Dewberry, I received extensive training in GIS
programming and data conversion and analysis. Last semester, I undertook an independent study, under
the guidance of Dr. Lowrey, where I explored the applications of remote sensing in the oil and gas
industry.

I am enthusiastic about applying my experiences in a full-time position where I hope to learn from
professionals involved in the many areas of oil and gas exploration using the most up-to-date
technologies. I also hope to gain a better understanding of the use of analytics tools to more efficiently
find and strike oil. Furthermore, I would relish the chance to apply my minor of Global Business,
especially within Energy Economics, in the industry to further enhance my experience with Anadarko.

I admire Anadarko’s strong position in the field of exploration in a small but competitive market. I am
especially interested in the company’s willingness to provide extensive training to employees in their
associated projects. On a more personal note, Nigeria being my home country, I am aware that Anadarko
was recently awarded an operatorship of Block 3 in the Nigeria-Sao Tome Joint Development Zone.

I am eager to further discuss my background with you at your convenience. If you need any further
information, please refer to my electronic portfolio www.personal.psu/jsample88/. By phone, I can be
reached at (814) 852-1729. Thank you.

Sincerely,
John Sample
John Sample

Enclosure: Resume

These pages were downloaded from Style for Students Online, available at https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/

Cover Letter by Recent Graduate Stressing Education and Experience

278 McElroy Dr.
Charlottesville, VA 22903
(824) 247-5707
jsample99@hotmail.com

May 24, 2008

Ms. Tisha Malenovsky
Science Applications International Corporation
800 Oak Ridge Turnpike
P.O. Box 2502
Oak Ridge, TN 37831

Dear Ms. Malenovsky:

I am writing to you because I recently learned of an open position as a geologist with SAIC in
Reston, Virginia, as I was searching the web site Career Path (Job Code TLM003695). I became
interested in your company as I learned that SAIC has a focus not only on the environment, but
also on maintaining high quality assurance standards, heavily focusing on implementing the ISO
9000/14000 as one of your provided services. I am a recent graduate from The Pennsylvania
State University with my B.S. degree, and I am highly interested in working as a geologist for
SAIC.

As my enclosed resume shows, my focus in the Geosciences within my Earth Sciences
curriculum has trained me in many different areas of science. I have taken several courses in
field geology in which I gained experience in coring, mapping, using GPS units, and surveying.
Other relevant coursework I have completed includes soils, a geography course that focused on
programming in Arc View, and the geology of oil and natural gas. I have also completed a
Bachelor of Arts in the French language in which I had extensive communication training. I have
spoken publicly at formal events on numerous occasions, and I’ve had several documents
published, both in journals and on the web. In my work as a QA intern at Asea Brown Boveri, I
had much exposure to standard QA procedure such as testing incoming material, creating
warranties, and implementing ISO 9000 standards within the QA department.

I am readily available to meet with you and discuss possible opportunities with SAIC, and I
would welcome the opportunity for an interview. I can be reached at (824) 247-5707 or at
jsample99@hotmail.com. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,
Jane Sample
Jane Sample
Enclosure: Resume

These pages were downloaded from Style for Students Online, available at https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/

Cover Letter by a Recent Graduate Stressing Transferable Skills; Letter Sent Via E-mail

Dear Andersen Consulting Representative:

I am a recent graduate from The Pennsylvania State University, with a BS degree in Geography
and a minor in Natural Sciences. I am interested in an entry-level position with Andersen
Consulting, especially within the Process Competency. I would be grateful for an opportunity to
meet with you to discuss employment possibilities. Per your website instructions, I am
expressing my interest via e-mail and a pdf of my resume is attached.

Admittedly, I do not have a specifically business- or technology-related degree; nonetheless I
have some proficiency with both as well as a sharp, probing mind and a keen, demonstrated
interest. Through the acquisition of my degree and parallel experiences I have accrued a highly
diverse education, gaining technical as well as cultural knowledge. My technical, computer-
related knowledge is based in Geographic Information Systems, using both ArcView and
ArcINFO, with some knowledge of programming with Avenue for ArcView, as well as
Microsoft Office and statistics-oriented programs such as Excel and SPSS. Much of my cultural
experience, in addition to my coursework, can be attributed to my interest in travel, resulting in
participation in study abroad programs in England and Italy and a previous exchange program in
Japan, besides my own personally contrived adventures. My traveling has helped heighten my
international awareness while scaffolding my independence, whereas my steady participation in
athletic clubs has taught me skills to work well as a team player.

I am an accelerated-thinking and highly motivated individual with an innovative spirit and
continuous interest in learning. My variegated background has provided me with the ability to be
both tech-minded and analytical as well as communicative and able to employ
international/cross-border thinking. I would be very willing to relocate nationally or
internationally and travel frequently. I am confident that my self-styled education will afford me
the ability to perform very well in a position for Andersen Consulting.

I am drawn to Andersen for its solid reputation and challenging work environment and am highly
interested in discussing employment opportunities with you further. I can be contacted through
my e-mail address at any time.

Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to speaking with you soon.

Sincerely,
Jane Sample
jsample88@hotmail.com

Attachment: Sampleresume

These pages were downloaded from Style for Students Online, available at https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/

These pages were downloaded from Style for Students Online, available at https://www.e-education.psu.edu/styleforstudents/

Cover Letter by a Graduate Student Seeking a Research Position

614 Waupelani Drive
State College, PA 16801
(814) 843-8674
jsample99@psu.edu

March 25, 2008
Sarah Brooks
Phelps Dodge Mining Company
9780 E. Sanchez Road
Safford, AZ 85546

Dear Ms. Brooks:

At the suggestion of Dr. Earl Kaya, Senior Research Engineer at Phelps Dodge Mining
Company, I am writing to apply for the position of Research Engineer. I am confident that my
graduate and research experiences in mineral processing engineering make me an excellent
candidate for this position.

My current research at the Pennsylvania State University is focused on the use of ultrasonic
energy to enhance the performance of dense-medium cyclones for fine coal recovery. In the lab,
I have designed and built two pilot-scale cyclone circuits. My sample analysis has exposed me to
a wide variety of analytical techniques (e.g., float-sink analysis, size analysis, ash and sulfur
analyses) and various types of laboratory equipment (e.g., wet-drum magnetic separator, light
scattering size analyzer, pumps, and controllers).

In the large scale of my research project, I supervise two undergraduate work/study students. I
am responsible for assigning them daily tasks, overseeing their work, and ensuring their safety in
the lab. I am also a teaching assistant for an undergraduate mineral processing laboratory class.
Along with grading laboratory reports, I monitor groups as they complete their exercises. My
primary duties are to ensure the students’ safety, promote appropriate laboratory behavior, and
teach the proper use of equipment.

More broadly, my graduate school experience has awarded me valuable professional ties.
Quarterly Industrial Advisory Board meetings provide an open forum for the discussion of my
research. The Department of Energy, which funds my project, requires stringent quality
assurance and accuracy in the data we provide. Next month, I will attend a chemical waste
management training program, sponsored by my department, as part of our ongoing mission to
meet EPA compliance standards.

I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
John Sample
John Sample
Enclosure: Resume