The purpose of a cover letter is to briefly introduce yourself, explain the position for which you are applying, and highlight your qualifications enough to peak the employer’s interest to more closely read your resume. You always want to include a cover letter whenever you submit a resume, even if it is not specifically requested. If you email the resume, use your cover letter as the body of your email and attach your resume as a PDF document.

Not sure where to begin? Check out our tips for a standout cover letter and cover letter samples to start gathering the information you'll need for your cover letter, and view additional resources below. 

Top 10 Cover Letter Writing Tips from The Balance Careers

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter for an Internship (Plus, an Example!)

 

Need help getting started or want feedback on a draft?

Not certain how to start or want to perfect it?  Schedule an appointment in Handshake to meet with a Career Counselor. For feedback on a draft of your cover letter, here is a How To video on uploading your document to your Handshake profile.  You'll hear from a CEO team member within two business days.

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Disclaimer

The Career Education Office (CEO) at Goucher College abides by the principles set forth by NACE (National Association of Colleges and Employers) and expects that employers who use the Center's services will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, sex, age, disability, or genetic information. All employment listings on the CEO platform are posted at the sole discretion of the Career Education Office.

The CEO is not responsible for the content of any linked site; the CEO provides these links only as a convenience and assumes no liability for acts or omissions by third parties or for any material supplied by them. Goucher is not responsible for safety, wages, working conditions, or other aspects of off-campus employment. It is the responsibility of students to research the integrity and safety of the organizations to which they are applying. Students are advised to use caution and common sense when applying for any position with an organization and reach out to the CEO if they have concerns or questions.