Cover Letters
The cover letter is your own personal accomplishment trailer for the position and organization. It tells the hiring manager why you’re excited about the job and connects the dots between your resume’s bullet points to the company’s needs. It shows off your personality and passion, making you stand out from the stack of generic applications and proving you’re worth an interview.
Want your cover letter to get read by recruiters and hiring managers? Start with something compelling about why you’re applying to bring the reader into your story. Then, focus on highlighting how you’ve built and used skills or knowledge most needed for the position. The resources below can help you get started, or you can stop by an SCA drop-in to brainstorm a powerful opening line.
Resource Documents
If you are a current student or recent grad, you can access a more extensive list of resources and tools in the .
Your Questions Answered (FAQ)
A strong cover letter is typically one page, or about 3 to 4 concise paragraphs. Aim for clear, focused writing that highlights your most relevant skills and experiences rather than restating your entire resume.
AI can be a helpful brainstorming and editing tool, but it should not replace your voice. You may use AI to generate ideas, refine your cover letter structure or improve clarity, then revise carefully to ensure accuracy, authenticity and alignment with the position. Always personalize the letter and double-check details before submitting.
Whenever possible, try to find the hiring manager’s name by reviewing the job description or company website. If you can’t find one, use a professional greeting such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Search Committee.” Avoid outdated greetings like “To Whom It May Concern.”
A cover letter is written in response to a specific job or internship posting and explains why you’re a strong fit for that role. A letter of interest (sometimes called a prospecting letter) expresses interest in an organization even when no position is posted and focuses on how your skills could add value in the future.
Often, yes. Even when optional, a cover letter can help you stand out by showing motivation, fit, and communication skills. If the posting truly discourages additional materials, follow the employer’s instructions, but otherwise, a thoughtful letter can strengthen your application.
No, your cover letter should connect and expand on your resume, not repeat it. Use specific examples to explain how and why your experiences prepare you for the role and align with the organization’s needs.
You can reuse a general framework, but each cover letter should be tailored to the position and organization. Employers can tell when a letter is generic, so adjust your opening, examples, and closing to reflect each opportunity.
That’s okay. Focus on the qualifications you do have and show how your skills, experiences and willingness to learn make you a strong candidate. Cover letters are especially useful for explaining transferable skills or nonlinear experiences.
Professional, but not stiff. Match the tone of the organization when possible, and aim for clear, confident and authentic language. Let your personality come through while maintaining professionalism.
Absolutely. Student Career Advisors and Career Coaches can review drafts, help you brainstorm strong openings, and tailor your letter to specific roles. Drop-ins and appointments are a great way to get feedback.