Writing a Cover Letter for an Internship

Crafting a compelling cover letter for an internship can be a gateway to securing valuable professional opportunities. This crucial document serves as your introduction to potential employers, offering insights into your skills, experiences, and enthusiasm.

This comprehensive guide will take you through the essential steps for creating an impactful internship cover letter. We'll provide examples and templates to help you seize the attention of the hiring team.

Understanding Internships

What is an internship?

An internship is a temporary position typically offered by organizations to students or recent graduates. It allows them to apply their classroom learning to real-world professional situations.

These positions are designed to provide a glimpse into the practical aspects of a particular field. Internships can vary in duration, from a few weeks to several months. They also can be either paid or unpaid, depending on various factors, including location, industry, and company policies.

When you apply for an internship, you usually need to submit several documents:

• A professionally written resume (even if you don't have any experience yet).
• A cover letter (that we're discussing in this article).
• One or several letters of recommendations from your professors or mentors.

Even if you're looking for a summer internship as a sophomore, you can still create a resume as a student, mentioning your school or volunteer activities, and other relevant facts.

While not always a mandatory requirement, a meticulously composed cover letter can be the key that will strengthen your chances of getting the desired internship. It goes beyond the basic repetition of your resume, allowing you to paint a fuller picture of who you are.

Types of Internships

Type	Description
Paid	Intern receives monetary compensation for their work.
Unpaid	Intern does not receive compensation; focuses on gaining experience and skills.
Work Research	Internship focused on conducting research related to the company's projects or goals.
Graduation or Dissertation	Remote internship for graduate students working on their thesis or dissertation research.
Virtual	Internship conducted entirely online, allowing students to work remotely from anywhere.
Apprenticeship	Structured program where interns learn a specific trade or skill under experienced mentors.
Fellowship	Competitive program for postgraduates or professionals involving research, study, or professional development under expert guidance.
Academic Credit	Internship undertaken as part of academic coursework, meeting specific academic criteria and overseen by a faculty member.
Externship	Short-term job shadowing experience where participants observe professionals to gain insight into a specific industry or job role.

Did you know these people started their careers as interns?

• Mary Barra (General Motors CEO). Breaking barriers as the first female CEO of the company, Barra commenced her career as a factory floor intern at the age of 18.
• Steven Spielberg (Film director). Spielberg's cinematic odyssey commenced with an unpaid, full-time internship at Universal Studios.
• Ursula Burns (Former Xerox CEO). Before leading the organization from 2009 to 2016, Burns launched her career as an intern. She made history as the first African American woman to head a Fortune 500 company.
• Elon Musk (Tesla Motors CEO). Musk pursued multiple internships, gaining experience at various renowned organizations such as the Bank of Nova Scotia, Microsoft Canada, Rocket Science Games, and Pinnacle Research.

Intern's resume examples:

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Why Are Internships Important?

• Real-world experience. Internships offer a unique chance to bridge the gap between theory and practice. While academic coursework provides valuable knowledge, internships allow individuals to implement it, gaining practical experience directly relevant to their chosen field.
• Skill development. Internships provide an environment for honing hard and soft skills. Whether technical skills like programming or data analysis or soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, internships offer the opportunity to enhance and refine these abilities.
• Networking. Building a professional network is essential for career growth. Internships allow individuals to connect with industry specialists, mentors, and colleagues, opening doors to future job opportunities and providing valuable guidance and insights.
• Resume enhancement. A well-executed internship can significantly strengthen your resume. Employers often look for candidates with practical experience. Having an internship on your resume demonstrates your commitment to your chosen field and your readiness to contribute to a company's success.
• Personal growth. Internships offer personal growth opportunities beyond career benefits. They require adaptability, the ability to learn quickly, and the resilience to navigate new challenges. All these qualities contribute to your overall development as a professional.
• Exploration and clarification. Internships are opportunities to explore different career paths within a specific industry. Many individuals enter internships with a general idea of their career goals. However, some may find new interests and passions as they gain exposure to various roles and responsibilities.
• Confidence building. Successfully completing an internship can boost an individual's self-confidence and self-assuredness. This experience provides a sense of accomplishment and a tangible demonstration of one's abilities, which can be especially valuable when seeking employment.
• Competitive advantage. In today's job market, having internship experience sets you apart from other candidates when looking for an entry-level job. Employers are more likely to consider applicants with relevant internships as they offer a degree of practical knowledge and adaptability that can be invaluable in the workplace.
• Job offers. Many employers use internships as a recruitment pipeline. You may receive a job offer from the same organization if you excel during your internship. Even if you don't secure a position immediately, your internship experience can be a stepping stone to future employment within the industry.

Technology companies often hire individuals who have previously interned with them. For example, 80.2% of Facebook's staff have participated in an internship, as have 78.3% of Google's employees. Similarly, 70.1% of IBM's workforce has previous internship experience with the company. (Chegg)

Ultimately, the knowledge and experience gained through internships are invaluable assets that can propel you toward a fulfilling and prosperous future in your chosen field.

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship?

1. Start with a Clear Expression of Intent

As you begin writing your cover letter, add your contact details at the top as well as the information of the recipient (hiring managers, director, etc.). Address the person by name if you know it.

Open your cover letter for internship by presenting yourself and explicitly stating the internship role you are applying for. Start with your name, year of study, and university or college. Show your enthusiasm for the role.

This approach indicates that you have taken the time to customize your cover letter for this particular opportunity rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach. If you are applying to multiple internship positions at different organizations, ensure this initial statement is tailored for each application.

2. The Power of Relevant Keywords

Incorporating pertinent keywords into your cover letter for internship is essential, especially since many employers employ Applicant Tracking Software (ATS) to sift through a sea of applications.

To do this effectively, study the job description and the company's website to identify keywords and phrases that resonate with your skills and experiences.

For instance, if the job posting emphasizes the importance of time management, be sure to provide concrete examples of your adept these skills within your internship cover letter.

3. Spotlight Your Relevant Experience

When your professional experience is limited, relevant coursework, projects, extracurricular activities, or significant assignments can be invaluable to potential employers. They articulate details about the courses and other types of work you've completed that align with the job description or industry.

For example, if you are eyeing a design internship, showcase your design-related courses and any notable achievements in the field.

Explain why you believe you would be a beneficial addition to the internship. Incorporate any pertinent knowledge you may have acquired through education, research, or other experiences.

4. Emphasize Your Relevant Skills

The main body of your cover letter for internship serves as a canvas where you can vividly paint a picture of your relevant knowledge, expertise, and educational background.

Even if your professional industry experience is limited, don't hesitate to showcase skills you've acquired through previous internships, part-time roles, volunteer positions, coursework, or extracurricular activities.

For instance, if you are applying for a reporting intern position, you could elaborate on your leadership skills you've developed in the role of an editor at your college newspaper.

Include examples of how your excellent communication skills have enabled you to succeed in past projects or experiences. Highlight any team-building exercises that illustrate your capacity to collaborate with others productively to finish tasks on time and within budget.

5. Connect the Dots: Why You Are the Perfect Fit

Dedicate a few lines to establish a clear link between your qualifications and the internship requirements. A meticulous job description analysis will help you identify the skills and experiences the employer seeks.

Then, seamlessly align these with your qualifications in your cover letter for internship, demonstrating how you fit the employer's needs.

It's important to show how motivated you are about the role and demonstrate a strong desire to further your knowledge of it.

6. Articulate Your Internship Goals

Internship programs are typically designed to provide students and young professionals with industry insights, skill development, and valuable networking opportunities.

Besides explaining how you can contribute to the company, articulate what you hope to achieve and learn during the internship. State why this particular internship interests you and how it fits into your career aspirations.

Additionally, highlight why you want to work at this organization and not any other place. Tell how this experience will help you in your career building.

7. Provide Closing Remarks

Conclude your cover letter for internship by thanking the employer for considering your candidacy and expressing your desire to hear back. Include contact information so they can get in touch with you if they have further questions or would like to set up an interview.

8. The Final Polish: Proofreading and Editing

After completing your internship cover letter, dedicate time to review and edit the application materials. Scrutinize it for spelling, punctuation, and grammar errors.

Seek feedback from trusted friends or family members whenever possible to gain a fresh perspective. Alternatively, utilize online grammar and spelling checkers to ensure the utmost accuracy.

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Cover Letter for an Internship Examples

Sample Cover Letter for an Internship as a Software Engineer

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Writing a Cover Letter for an Internship as a Mobile App Designer

Camilla Hernandez

940-891-8884 | c-hernandez@email.com

Denton, TX

March 25, 2024

Mr. Michael Eren

Imaginique Studio

4037 Freed Drive | Denton, TX

Dear Mr. Eren,

I am delighted to formally submit my application for the esteemed Summer Application Design internship program at Imaginique Studio. My academic pursuits and volunteer experiences have culminated in a skill set. I believe it positions me as a valuable asset poised to contribute meaningfully to your team.

Over three years at the University of North Texas, I have diligently studied cutting-edge design principles and industry best practices. Notably, coursework encompassing Principles of User Experience Design and Mobile Application Design has allowed me to cultivate a comprehensive skill set.

These educational experiences have equipped me with practical proficiencies ranging from the intricacies of user journey mapping to the technical aspects of application wireframing. Furthermore, my engagement extends to developing software tailored for mobile platforms and operating systems, underscoring my adaptability and commitment to staying at the forefront of industry advancements.

Beyond the classroom, I have recently dedicated my efforts to the service of a local non-profit organization. Here, I collaborated with the web team, contributing to revitalizing and relaunching a pivotal application facilitating community donations. This collaborative initiative resulted in a noteworthy 10% increase in contributions, reinforcing my belief in the transformative power of innovative design.

My professional hallmark is a steadfast commitment to precision and a penchant for infusing creativity into every facet of my work. My meticulous attention to detail is unwavering, and my proficiency in graphic design is well-honed. I envision my contributions as a pivotal force in elevating Imaginique Studio to a position of distinction within the competitive landscape.

The prospect of participating in this internship program fills me with a profound sense of enthusiasm and anticipation. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse myself in the dynamic technology industry, where I can apply and refine my existing skills to perfection. My eagerness to engage with your esteemed team and embark on this journey of application design excellence knows no bounds.

I look forward to further discussing how I may contribute to Imaginique Studio's ongoing pursuit of innovation and excellence. Until such an opportunity arises, I remain at your disposal, ready to take the next steps toward realizing our shared objectives.

Sincerely,

Camilla Hernandez

Sample Cover Letter for an Internship as a Pharmacist

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Internship Cover Letter Template

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Phone Number]

[Date]

[Employer's Name]

[Company Name]

[Company Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

Dear [Employer's Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [specific internship position] advertised on [where you found the job posting]. I am a [Your Current Education Level] student majoring in [Your Major/Area of Study] at [Your University/College]. I am eager to apply my skills and passion for [relevant skills or interests] to contribute to [Company Name].

Throughout my academic career, I have developed a strong foundation in [relevant skills or coursework], which I believe aligns well with the requirements of the internship position. Additionally, my involvement in [relevant extracurricular activities or projects] has allowed me to further hone my [specific skill or quality] skills. I am excited to bring them to the team at [Company Name].

I am particularly drawn to [specific aspect of the company or internship] at [Company Name]. I want to learn from and contribute to the innovative work being done in [specific area or department]. I am confident that my [relevant skills or experiences] make me a strong candidate for this internship opportunity.

Attached is my resume, which provides additional details about my academic and extracurricular experiences. I am available to discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasm for [Company Name] mission make me a great fit for this internship position.

Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the possibility of contributing to [Company Name] and am excited about the opportunity to learn from your team. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience. You can reach me at [Your Phone Number] or via email at [Your Email Address].

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

FAQ

Writing a cover letter for internship as a student might be intimidating, yet it doesn't have to be. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about an intern's cover letter writing.

How long should a internship cover letter be?

A cover letter should be concise, usually around 250 to 400 words, and fit into one page. This translates to about four to six paragraphs, covering your introduction, relevant experiences and skills, interest in the position and company, and a closing statement. Keep it focused and to the point, highlighting key qualifications and aligning them with the internship opportunity.

Should I use bullet points in my cover letter for internship?

It's generally advisable to avoid using bullet points in a cover letter. While they can help organize information, cover letters are traditionally written in paragraph form to convey professionalism and narrative flow. Bullets may disrupt this format and make the letter appear more like a resume.

Is it acceptable to use slang or jokes in my application letter?

No, it is not appropriate to incorporate slang or jokes into your internship cover letter. Your cover letter must stay professional and concentrate on why you are qualified for the position. Slang and jokes can come across as incompetent and may not be well-received by all readers, potentially undermining your credibility.

Should I explain why I'm keen on this particular company or role?

Yes, explaining why you are interested in this specific company or position is important. It shows that you did research about the company and understand what they are looking for in an intern. Explain how your skills and experience fit with their needs and goals.

Is there any additional information I should include?

If there are any other details that can help paint a picture of who you are as an applicant, feel free to mention them in the concluding section of your internship cover letter. This could be awards or accolades earned, any relevant hobbies and interests, or any other information that will help make your application stand out from the rest.

Should I mention my GPA in the cover letter?

Unless your GPA is impressive (e.g., 3.5 or higher) or explicitly requested, it's usually best to focus on relevant experiences and skills rather than mentioning your GPA. Highlighting achievements and experiences that demonstrate your qualifications for the internship can be more impactful than solely relying on academic performance.

Is it okay to mention salary expectations in the cover letter?

In most cases, it's not appropriate to discuss what salary you want in an internship cover letter. The primary focus should be on expressing your qualifications, enthusiasm for the position, and alignment with the company's goals. Salary discussions typically occur during later stages of the hiring process, such as interviews or negotiations.

Should I include a cover letter if the application doesn't require one?

Writing a cover letter, even when not explicitly requested, can enhance your profile. It provides an opportunity to showcase your initiative and the desire to go above the expected. A well-crafted cover letter for internship can potentially set you apart from other applicants.

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Conclusion

Follow the steps outlined in this article and use the provided examples as a guide. With their help, you can create a compelling internship cover letter highlighting your qualifications and conveying your genuine enthusiasm for the internship opportunity.

Remember that a well-crafted cover letter can be the bridge to securing an interview and, ultimately, landing the internship of your dreams.