Cover Letters

While it's not always required, some professors may request a cover letter when you email them for prospective Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) positions. A thoughtfully written cover letter can greatly enhance your graduate school application by offering a personalized introduction and emphasizing essential qualifications. In this guide, I'll provide you with tips and guidelines to create an impactful cover letter that accompanies your CV and transcripts when contacting professors.

1. Understand the Purpose: A cover letter introduces yourself, expresses your interest in the program or position, and highlights your relevant qualifications. It serves as an opportunity to make a strong first impression and grab the reader's attention.

2. Research and Personalize: Conduct thorough research on the program, department, and professor you are addressing in the cover letter. Tailor your letter to each individual recipient, highlighting specific aspects that align with their research or teaching interests.

3. Structure the Letter: Begin with a professional salutation, addressing the recipient by their title and name. Structure your letter into clear paragraphs, including an introduction, body, and conclusion.

4. Start with an Engaging Opening: Grab the reader's attention with a compelling opening statement or anecdote related to your interest in the program or field of study. Clearly state the purpose of your letter and mention the specific position or program you are applying for.

5. Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Summarize your academic background, research experience, and relevant achievements. Emphasize how your skills, knowledge, and interests align with the research or teaching focus of the professor or program.

6. Connect with the Professor's Work: Demonstrate your familiarity with the professor's research by referencing specific papers, projects, or methodologies they have worked on. Explain how your own research interests or experiences align with theirs, showcasing your potential as a valuable collaborator.

7. Showcase Your Motivation and Fit: Articulate your passion for the field and your genuine interest in the program or research area. Explain why you believe the program or professor's mentorship is essential for your academic and career goals.

8. Address Potential Gaps or Challenges: If there are any aspects of your application, such as lower grades or gaps in your academic history, address them honestly and briefly. Focus on how you have overcome challenges and highlight your commitment to academic growth.

9. Maintain a Professional Tone: Use formal language and maintain a professional tone throughout the letter. Proofread carefully for grammar and spelling errors, ensuring the letter is polished and error-free.

10. Express Gratitude and Confidence: Conclude the letter by expressing gratitude for the professor's time and consideration. Express your confidence in your ability to contribute to the program or research project and your eagerness to discuss your application further.

It's crucial to remember that a CV and a cover letter are not the same. They serve distinct purposes and have different formats. Thus, it's essential to maintain the significant differences between the two while crafting each document. You can find mine here, though it;s not a great example.