sample cover letter for practicum placement

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship [Examples & Template]

Published: September 15, 2023

Writing a cover letter can feel like a daunting task, especially if you don’t have a lot of real-world experience.

Fortunately, a cover letter is actually a chance to explain how your extracurriculars and classes have taught you exceptional leadership and time management skills.

We’ve created an internship cover letter template to provide some initial structure and inspiration. For the best results, download our template, then add your own creativity and flair with the tips below.

5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Five fill-in-the-blank cover letter templates to help you impress recruiters.

• Standard Cover Letter Template
• Entry-Level Cover Letter Template
• Data-Driven Cover Letter Template

You're all set!

Click this link to access this resource at any time.

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship

• Include your name, date, location, and contact information.
• Include the company, department, and company address.
• Address the hiring manager.
• Set the context for your application.
• Sell your experience.
• Close the letter with grace and a call to action.

There are different formats you can use when writing internship cover letters, but you can’t go wrong with the traditional business letter format. Business professionals use this template style to apply for full-time roles, so your cover letter will stand out above the rest. Remember to proofread, use formal terms such as “Dear” and “Sincerely,” and lean towards a professional tone in your body copy.

1. Include your name, date, location, and contact information.

Although some companies are firmly against using applicant tracking systems, chances are many of the companies you apply to  will screen your resume and cover letter using one. That means you’ll need to stand out to both an automated system and human recruiters.

Have you ever heard the myth that you’d get credit for writing your name on the SAT exam? The same applies to adding contact information to your cover letter, but it’s 100% true. Make it easy for the recruiter to get in touch with you by providing an up-to-date phone number and email address.

In the past, it was common for job and internship seekers to include their exact address on their cover letter as they’d mail them directly to the hiring managers. In today’s digital world, most hiring teams won’t need to know your exact home address to extend an internship offer, so feel free to leave it off. Simply include your city and state to give the team an idea of your proximity to the office.

Your Address

Your City, State, Zip Code

Cell: 555-555-5555

Email: [email protected]

2. Include the company, department, and company address.

If you’re writing a cover letter for several internship opportunities, you’ll find it helpful to search the full name, department, and headquarters address of each company. Doing this as a separate step will help you copy the information accurately in your cover letter. Remember, you don’t want any typos or mistakes in your cover letter, especially when it comes to information that can be easily found on the internet.

Finding the department name may not be as simple, so you can leave that out if you’re unsure. If your company has several campuses or operates in different cities, use the address of the location where the internship will be performed or the office location where your hiring manager works. If your internship will be remote, use the company’s general headquarters address.

City, State Zip

3. Address the hiring manager.

As a student looking for an internship, you’ll definitely set yourself apart from other applicants by being resourceful. You can show your resourcefulness by searching for the hiring manager’s name to properly address them in your cover letter. Occasionally, their title is stated in the role description. You can then search for the role on LinkedIn to identify their name. If you can’t find a name, you can instead address them by title only. Other times, though, finding the name of the hiring manager could be more difficult. If a Google search doesn’t return a first and last name, your best bet is to leave the name out. Sacrificing a bit of personalization is much better than addressing the wrong person in your cover letter.

Dear X, (try to find the hiring manager’s name… if you can’t, you can put “Dear [Company A] Hiring Committee”)

4. Set the context for your application.

In the first paragraph, explain how you heard about the company or position, and if you know anyone at the company, mention them here. Next, express your own interest in the company or position and explain briefly how it relates to your own passions. Don’t forget to introduce yourself in this paragraph, writing your name, your education level, your major, and your interests.

You may opt for a creative first line to capture the reader’s attention. One that worked for me early in my career went something like this:

“ Can I tell you a secret? I’ve been telling stories since I was five years old. No, not fibbing — real storytelling... ”

This is where you’ll benefit from researching the company’s culture. While this opening statement worked well for startups and more laid-back companies, a big accounting firm might find it culturally off-beat.

5. Sell your experience.

Scan the internship position description and pick out a few qualities you think apply to you — just don’t choose all the descriptors mentioned as it could appear disingenuous and make your cover letter too long. For instance, if I see a company is looking for someone who’s “outgoing, organized, hardworking, and willing to take criticism,” I would pick those that describe me best and focus on providing examples in the body of my cover letter.

Mentioning the traits directly in your cover letter shows you’ve read the position description, and makes your cover letter more scannable. If the hiring manager is looking for someone with content skills, she might scan your cover letter looking for the words that indicate experience with content.

Finally, brainstorm a few compelling examples to show how you embody the most important characteristics. Don’t just write, “I have excellent customer service skills.” You want to prove it. Support your claim by writing something like,

“ Last summer, I worked as an orientation leader at my college, serving as a resource for incoming students and their parents. This experience strengthened my customer service skills. ”

Even if you don't have a lot of (or any) job experience, think about highlighting skills you've gained from extracurriculars, volunteer experience, or even passion projects:

“My passion for dance led me to become a volunteer dance teacher which helped me develop as a leader.”

6. Close the letter with grace and a call to action.

If the internship application does not explicitly state “please do not contact,” you might choose to conclude by specifying how you will follow up, such as, “I will call next week to see if my qualifications are a match,” or, “I am eager to meet with you to discuss this opportunity, and am available for an interview at a mutually convenient time.” Conclude by thanking the hiring manager for taking the time to consider you, and end on a positive, confident note, such as, “I look forward to speaking with you soon.”

You may even go a step further and give the hiring manager a call to action. Include a link to your online portfolio, a website, or even a YouTube channel where you display your work and personality. To see how often hiring managers are viewing these additional items, include tracking to your link using a URL tracker like Bitly to capture that data.

Sample Internship Cover Letter

Featured resource: 5 free cover letter templates, event planning internship cover letter.

1 Hireme Road

Boston, MA, 20813

Email: [email protected]

May 20, 2021

Event Planning Department -- Internship Program

35 Recruiting St.

Boston, MA, 29174

Dear Internship Coordinator,

At the suggestion of John Smith, a senior marketer at Company A, I am submitting my resume for the Event Coordinator internship position. I am a junior at Elon University, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Sport and Event Management, and am passionate about event planning. I am thrilled to hear about Company A’s Event Coordinator internship program and feel my experiences and skills would be an excellent match for your organization.

As an executive member of the Student Union Board at Elon, I am in charge of organizing, promoting, and implementing multiple school-related social activities per week, while being challenged to design new events. I work cohesively with a diverse team made up of students and faculty, and I also foster relationships with novelty companies.

My experience as an Orientation Leader has further prepared me for this internship. It was essential that I remain positive, outgoing, and energized during move-in day and act as a liaison between new students, families, and faculty in a fast-paced and demanding environment. I was expected to maintain a highly professional customer service ethic while interacting with families and new students.

My Elon University experiences, executive board membership, and orientation leadership role have prepared me to be successful in the Event Coordinator internship program. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can add value to Company A.

(handwritten signature)

Marketing Internship Cover Letter Template

Marketing Department — Internship Program

I am a passionate, creative, and driven Elon University student with leadership and event planning experience, as well as strong communication skills. I am seeking opportunities to showcase my writing abilities in a challenging and stimulating environment. My skills and experiences will enable me to deliver successful results as a digital marketing intern for Company B.

Please allow me to highlight my key skills:

• Prior experience writing blog posts and press releases for marketing objectives
• Strong communication skills and ability to adopt voice for diverse audiences and varying purposes
• Efficient in managing multiple projects with fast-moving deadlines through organization and time-management skills
• A firm understanding of grammar rules and how to write effectively
• Experience in leadership positions, both as Student Union Board executive leader and as an Elon Orientation Leader
• Proven ability to form positive relationships with people from around the globe, exhibited by my internship experience in China last summer
• Experience organizing, promoting, and implementing social events
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, and Premiere), and social media platforms

In closing, I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can be an asset to Company B. I will call next week to see if you agree that my qualifications are a match for the position. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Internship Cover Letter Examples

1. hospitality internship cover letter, why this cover letter example works:.

Passion, a willingness to learn, and previous industry experience are the factors that make this cover letter stand out. The hiring manager is able to see that the candidate has a genuine interest in the field of hospitality and takes their future in the field seriously.

How to incorporate these tips:

Start by analyzing your own experience and interest in comparison to the internship you're applying for. Do you have any examples, facts, or figures that you can include in your letter? This will help the hiring manager understand your interest in the position and give them more of a reason to hire you over the competition.

2. Supply Chain Internship Cover Letter

This student has concrete experience in three specific areas of the supply chain: demand forecasting, inventory management, and logistics strategies. Naming these areas of expertise is not only helpful for landing the internship, it helps the hiring manager structure the team by pairing them with other interns and mentors who can complement that skillset. If there's anything a hiring manager loves more than a prepared hire, it's a hire who's proactive!

3. Fashion Design Internship Cover Letter

Hands-on experience isn't possible in every field of work, but when you aspire to work in the fashion industry, there's no better way to stand out for an internship. In this internship cover letter example, Peter shares that he has practical experience designing clothing which demonstrates his ability to illustrate, design, and produce a material product which is exactly what Sleeves & Thread is looking for. 

Roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty. If you're planning to work in an industry that produces material goods, technology, or even provides services, a great way to prove your chops is to do it before you get the job. This might look like starting a small summer side hustle, working pro bono, or taking on projects at school for extra credit. Whatever route you choose, make sure to take on projects that build a quality portfolio that hiring managers will want to see.

4. Finance Internship Cover Letter

Rebecca takes the time to highlight her skillset, but she also balances her cover letter with reasons why Banking Corporation will be a great fit for her budding career. She gives plenty of reasons why the company is appealing to her which helps balance the cover letter.

The obvious point of a cover letter is to sell your skills to the hiring manager in order to secure the internship. However, it's important to remember that the hiring process is a two-way street. It's beneficial to incorporate reasons why you want to work for the business. Explaining what the business is doing that aligns with your personal goals and values can be the factor that tips the scale in your favor and gets you hired.

5. Marketing Cover Letter Internship Example

If you work in the industry of the arts, creative, or marketing, chances are you'll have more freedom when it comes to drafting your cover letter. Here, Robin takes a novel approach by weaving colorful language that practically jumps off the page. With just enough pizazz, her personality shines through which could leave the hiring manager wanting to learn more.

It may be tempting to throw in flowery language for the sake of standing out, but proceed with caution. A better approach would be to imagine you're seeing the internship opportunity for the first time, then share your excitement with a friend. Next, write down what you said, exactly as you said it, and edit from there to include the key points of a cover letter we mention in this article. You'll sound natural while still getting your point across succinctly.

Internship Cover Letter Templates

Standard internship cover letter template.

Use this cover letter template as a foundation for your cover letter. You can customize it to fit your experience and the companies you’ll be applying to.

Download this cover letter template

Data-Driven Internship Cover Letter Template

If your major is data-driven like STEM, marketing, or accounting, this is the internship cover letter template for you. With this template, you can include the data highlights of your class projects and assignments to show the hiring manager that you can support your experience with credible facts.

Entry-level Cover Letter Template

As you approach your senior year of college, you may be looking for entry-level roles rather than internships. Cover letters are just as important for full-time roles as they are for internships, so use this template to make the transition in your job search.

Wrapping Up Your Letter of Recommendation

A resume isn’t always enough to make an impression. Including a cover letter in your internship application is the first step to setting yourself apart from other applicants. Study and apply the six steps for writing a professional internship cover letter and use one of these samples or templates to customize it. Your resume gives the highlights of your time in college while your cover letter tells the story of how those experiences will serve you as an intern with your future employer. Use it to your advantage to land the first role in your career as you navigate college and beyond.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in April 2018 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.

This article was written by a human, but our team uses AI in our editorial process. Check out our full disclosure to learn more about how we use AI.

Don't forget to share this post!

Related articles.

General Cover Letter: 15 Cover Letter Templates to Perfect Your Next Job Application

Is a Cover Letter Necessary in 2024?

The 23 Best Cover Letter Examples: What They Got Right

Letter of Interest Tips, Templates & Examples [A 2023 Guide]

The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Cover Letter

How to Start a Cover Letter to Impress Employers [+ 14 Examples]

Eight Cover Letter Greetings for Every Situation

7 Expert Cover Letter Tips to Get the Job

Marketing software that helps you drive revenue, save time and resources, and measure and optimize your investments — all on one easy-to-use platform

How to Write a Cover Letter for Internship (Examples & Template)

You’ve found the perfect internship and it’s now time to apply and land the position!

But, in addition to your resume, you also have to write an internship cover letter.

You might end up staring at the blank Word document for hours and nothing comes out.

We don’t blame you; cover letters are hard to write even if you have a decade’s worth of work experience, let alone if you’re a recent graduate or a student.

Worry not, though; in this article, we’re going to teach you all you need to know to write a compelling cover letter for your internship.

• Do you need a cover letter for an internship?
• How to write a compelling cover letter for an internship
• Plug and play internship cover letter template

Do I Need a Cover Letter for an Internship?

First things first—if you’re wondering whether you actually need a cover letter for your internship application, the answer is yes . 

An internship application is just like any other hiring process, meaning that a recruiter will go over your resume , cover letter (and maybe even references), and decide whether you’re qualified for the position. 

And yes, recruiters contrary to what you might think, recruiters do read your cover letter. 56% of recruiters prefer a cover letter with an applicant’s application.

This is reasonable - a cover letter allows you to add essential information you didn’t have space for in a resume, as well as explain (in words) how your experiences are tied to the role you’re applying for.

As such, a cover letter for an internship is essential and complementary to your application package.

Now that we got that out of the way, let’s go over all the best ways to write a cover letter for an internship. 

How to Write a Cover Letter for Internship

#1. respect the format.

Before you can focus on your cover letter’s contents, you should first make sure you’re sticking to the right format. 

Otherwise, your cover letter will be disorganized and the recruiter will have a hard time following your train of thought.

So, here’s the format that your cover letter for an internship should follow: 

• Header with contact information. This includes your full name, professional email, phone number, and LinkedIn profile (if you have one). Underneath your contact info, you should add the date and the receiver’s information (the recruiter’s name and title, the company/organization name, and their physical address). 
• Addressing the recruiter. Greeting the recruiter with “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern” is common, but not the best approach. Want to show the hiring manager that you did your research? We recommend you address the hiring manager by name directly. Our guide on how to address a cover letter covers everything you need to know on this topic!      
• Opening statement. Your opening statement should be brief, but at the same time professional and attention-grabbing. Here, you introduce yourself, mention the position you’re applying for, and potentially a key achievement or two.   
• Body. The body of your cover letter consists of 2-3 paragraphs where you highlight your education, provide background for your skills, and explain how you (and the company) would benefit from each other professionally. 
• Closing paragraph. Your closing paragraph is your chance to include a call to action, to thank the recruiters for their time, or mention anything important you left out. 
• Formal salutation. End your cover letter with a formal salutation such as “kind regards,” “sincerely,” or “best regards.” Our guide on how to end a cover letter can teach you all you need to know on the topic. 

Having trouble getting started with your cover letter? Read our guide on how to start a cover letter and get inspired!

#2. State the Position You’re Applying For in the Opening

Recruiters hate one-size-fits-all cover letters and resumes.

Around 48% of recruiters and hiring managers aren’t even going to read your cover letter if it’s not customized to the role you’re applying for.

And one of the easiest ways to do this is by mentioning the role you’re applying for right in the cover letter opening.

This allows you to:

• Show that you will be tailoring the rest of your cover letter for that position alone.
• Prove that your cover letter is customized for this specific internship, and you’re not just randomly applying for the job,

Here’s a practical example of how you can mention the role you’re applying for in the cover letter opening:

Dear Mr. Jacobs, 

It is my pleasure to apply for the Communications Assistant internship position at the United Nations Development Programme. I can confidently say based on my 2-year experience working as a journalist and my excellent academic results in the Mass Communications Major that I’d be a good fit for the position. 

#3. Mention the Right Keywords

When reviewing your application, hiring managers tend to scan your cover letter or resume and look for the right keywords that would make you qualified for the internship you’re applying for.

E.g. If you're applying for a job in graphic design, the recruiter is probably looking for keywords like “Photoshop,” “Illustrator,” or “InDesign.”

As such, it’s very important to include the right keywords in your cover letter.

How can you find these keywords, you might ask?

It’s actually pretty simple - just look at the internship job description and go through the required skills & responsibilities and identify the keywords that you’d think the recruiter would be looking for.

Then, do the following:

• Sprinkle some of those keywords throughout your cover letter. When relevant, back them up with an experience. E.g. don’t just say “I’m good at Photoshop,” say how you’ve taken 3 different Photoshop classes and used Photoshop for 2 different projects.
• Don’t include keywords that don’t apply to you, they’ll just make it seem like you’re copy-pasting from the job description.
• Research and add other popular soft skills that recruiters look for in applicants for the role you’re applying for. E.g. If you’re applying for an internship as a communications assistant, chances are, you’ll need strong communication skills (even if this is not something listed in the job description.

Now, let’s look at a practical example. Let’s say that the internship you’re applying for requires the following skills:

• Communication
• Ability to meet strict deadlines

Here’s how you’d mention this in your cover letter:

During my time as Editor in Chief at my University’s newspaper, I got to develop my communication and leadership skills significantly. For over two years, I was in charge of a 7 people team, which also helped my teamwork skills and my ability to meet deadlines. 

Keep in mind, though, that it IS possible to overdo it with the keywords.

44% of hiring managers say they will dismiss a resume or cover letter that looks as if it has copied the job posting. 

Using each and every keyword mentioned in the job description (without backing the skills up with experiences) might cause the hiring manager to think that you’re just copying the job ad & don’t actually have these skills.

So, don’t just copy-paste all the keywords from the job description, and if you DO mention a lot of those keywords, make sure to back them up with practical experiences.

#4. Highlight Your Education

If you don’t have a lot of work experience, your education and relevant coursework is your best chance to show that you’re a good fit for the internship. 

Letting the recruiter know what kind of courses you’ve completed that are relevant to the internship you’re applying for will be a big plus for your application. 

Say, for example, that you’re applying for an internship as a graphic designer. To make your internship cover letter impactful, make sure to mention all the relevant courses and related accomplishments. 

Here’s an example of how you could do that:

As a Visual Design major, I have completed several courses that have helped me build my professional portfolio. A few of the most beneficial ones have been Design & Layout and Visual Communication: Theory and Practice. I have also gained valuable experience doing the layout of the university’s newspaper for 4 years and of several books as independent projects. 

#5. Provide Background For Your Skills

It’s one thing to just claim that you have a set of skills and another to prove it. 

Anyone can say that they’re great at doing something, but what makes all the difference is when you can actually put your money where your mouth is. 

For example, in your internship cover letter, instead of just mentioning that you have “good time-management skills,” actually back it up with a past experience that proves it.

During the summers I assisted my family’s wedding planning business, I learned a lot about time management. In that kind of business, it’s important that things run like clockwork so in addition to time management skills, it also significantly improved my attention to detail. 

#6. Explain Why You’re a Good Fit For The Position

In addition to just listing out the skills that are relevant and beneficial for the internship, you should also explain why you are a good fit for the position. 

This means that you should connect the dots between what the company/organization is looking to gain from its interns and what you can do to provide those services. 

So, after you research and create an understanding of what is required of you, you should use your cover letter to explain why you’re a good fit for that position. 

For the sake of the example, let’s assume you’re applying for an internship at a Human Rights organization. A big chunk of what the role requires is categorizing virtual files of the cases the organization has worked on in the past.

What you want to do, in this case, is show how you can help with that particular job as an intern. Here’s how:  

I have spent 3 summers working at the National Library, where I was tasked to sort and categorize books based on their topic, author, and year of publication, and also memorize where each section fits in the library. I believe this skill, which I have perfected over the years, can really be of use for the internship position at Organization X.

#7. Describe What You Would Gain Professionally

In addition to showing (and proving) your skills and how you can benefit the company, you should also explain how getting the position will benefit YOU . 

When it comes to internships, oftentimes they serve the purpose of helping students and young professionals acquire in-depth knowledge about the industry, create a network, and develop skills that will benefit them throughout their careers. 

So, it will surely help you make an even better impression if you show that you are self-aware about what you’ll get out of the internship and how it will help you grow professionally. 

Here’s how you can do that: 

I am excited for this internship to provide me with the necessary customer service skills and network that will help me grow professionally in my future career as a customer service manager. 

#8. Proofread Your Cover Letter

After all, is written and done, there’s one final thing to do and that is make sure your cover letter doesn’t have mistakes. 

A spelling or grammar mistake probably won’t disqualify you, but at the same time, it will probably be a red flag for recruiters that you’re not too attentive.

For this reason, ask a friend to proofread your cover letter or use spell-checking software such as Grammarly and Hemingway . 

Want to know what other cover letter mistakes you should avoid? Our guide on cover letter mistakes has all you need to know on the topic! 

#9. Match Your Cover Letter & Resume Designs

Want your internship application to truly shine?

Match your cover letter design with your resume!

Sure, you could go with a generic Word cover letter template, but why fit in when you can stand out?

At Novorésumé, all our resume templates come with a matching cover letter template , guaranteed to make your application truly special.

Cover Letter for Internship Template

Struggling to create a cover letter for your internship?

Simply follow our tried-and-tested internship cover letter template!

Key Takeaways 

And that’s a wrap! You should now have all the necessary information about how to create a cover letter for an internship.

Now, let’s do a small recap of the key learning points we just covered:

• Cover letters are a must when you’re applying for an internship.
• When you start writing your cover letter, make sure you respect the format: the header with contact information, the greeting to the recruiter, an opening paragraph, the body with 2-3 paragraphs, and a closing paragraph followed by an official salutation and your name.
• Some of our main tips on how to write a cover letter for an internship include: state the position you’re applying for, make use of the right keywords, and back up your skills with experiences.
• Use a cover letter builder and match it with your resume to make sure your cover letter truly stands out from the rest.

Related Readings: 

• Entry-level Cover Letter
• Do I Need a Cover Letter in 2024?
• Top 21 Cover Letter Tips

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

Resume Builder

• Resume Experts
• Search Jobs
• Search for Talent
• Employer Branding
• Outplacement

College Practicum Cover Letter

15 college practicum cover letter templates.

How to Write the College Practicum Cover Letter

I would like to submit my application for the college practicum opening. Please accept this letter and the attached resume.

In my previous role, I was responsible for valuable experience with and familiarity to multidisciplinary drawing standards, (civil, structural, mechanical, piping, electrical, controls, etc.) which will provide a significant learning curve advantage in future career opportunities.

I reviewed the requirements of the job opening and I believe my candidacy is an excellent fit for this position. Some of the key requirements that I have extensive experience with include:

• Familiarity with clinical experience in higher education
• Experience in a direct support relationship in an institution of higher education or similar type organization
• Familiarity with educational requirements related to School Counseling and/or Library and Information Science
• Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction or Doctorate in Instructional Leadership or Doctorate in Learning and Teaching or Doctorate in Teaching Innovation or Doctorate in Literacy or Doctorate in Reading or related field
• Valid state teacher certification
• Specifically seeking someone with EHR training or coordination, health information systems implementation
• Those working as informatics managers, informatics directors or data analysts

Thank you for considering me to become a member of your team.

Zion Feeney

• Microsoft Word (.docx) .DOCX
• PDF Document (.pdf) .PDF
• Image File (.png) .PNG

Responsibilities for College Practicum Cover Letter

College practicum responsible for the College with context on Advancement activities, strategies and goals, and leads on college-specific Advancement goals.

Related Cover Letters

Create a Resume in Minutes with Professional Resume Templates

Create a Cover Letter and Resume in Minutes with Professional Templates

Create a resume and cover letter in minutes cover letter copied to your clipboard.

8 September 2023

Writing a Placement & Work Experience Cover Letter

When you apply for a placement, you’ll need to send a cover letter along with your CV. A placement cover letter supports your application by explaining who you are and why you’re interested in the role.

The aim of your cover letter is to persuade an employer to read your CV, (over the fifty others they received), and eventually invite you for an interview.

Want to write the perfect one? Read on for the how…

• What goes into a work experience cover letter?

How to write a cover letter for a placement

Placement cover letter example.

• Things to remember

What goes into a work experience cover letter

Although you should always tailor your cover letter for each job you apply for, there are a couple of things that all cover letters must include.

On top of the usual letter niceties, these are…

• Your name and contact details
• The role you’re applying for
• Why you’re interested in the role
• Your skills and previous experience
• What you’ll bring to the company
• Your career goals

Step 1: Dear Sir / Madam?

The first three words of your cover letter are crucial. Make no mistake!

Recruiters and employers get itchy eyes when they read a work placement cover letter addressed to [Dear Sir/Madam]. And they really lose their minds when they see [To whom it may concern]. It’s best to address your letter to the reader directly. So…

Dear Full Name , e.g. Dear David Attenborough – this is ideal as it’s gender-inclusive and doesn’t rely on the use of ‘Mr’ or ‘Ms’

Dear Mr Surname , e.g. Dear Mr Attenborough

Dear Ms Surname , e.g. Dear Ms Attenborough – never presume marital status. Write Ms instead of Miss / Mrs.

Don’t know who to address your cover letter to? There’s a few things you can do.

1. Browse LinkedIn – Lots of companies have a profile that lists their employees

2. Contact the employer – Ask for the name of the person who is tasked with reading placement cover letters. You can do this by phone or email

3. Address your cover letter to the department manager

4. If you can’t locate the person who handles recruitment, address your placement cover letter to someone who works in HR .

Step 2:  Swift intro

Next, you need to disclose what placement you’re applying for. 

A company might be hiring placement students in a number of different departments. Be specific to make sure you’re being considered for the right role.

Write something like this –

“ I am writing regarding the vacancy for the marketing placement with IBM, as advertised on RateMyPlacement. Please find my attached CV. “

Let the recruiter know where you found the vacancy for the placement. Employers are always keen to know what channels students use to find jobs. It makes a good impression.

Step 3:  Why are you interested?

Now you’ve introduced yourself, it’s time to explain why you’re interested in the chosen placement or work experience scheme.

It’s important to do some research about the company you’re applying to and the content of the programme. Use it to give convincing reasons for your interest in the placement.

Step 4: What can YOU bring?

In this section, you want to explain what you’ll bring to the company as a placement student. There’s no need to mention everything.

Be specific and keep it relevant to the role. What unique skills will you bring to the organisation?

It’s also a chance to talk a little bit about your hobbies and interests – keeping them relevant to the role you’ve applied to.

“ I am halfway through a Marketing degree, and on course to achieve a 2:1. So far, I have focussed on digital marketing modules, which have imparted strong analytical and problem-solving skills. I am also now proficient in basic coding. My three years at Mecca Bingo have provided experience with customer service practices and other useful soft skills. “

Step 5: Final flourish

Aptly named the final flourish, you will end your placement cover letter in this section. Thank the recruiter for considering your application, and register your interest in attending an interview.

“Thank you for considering my application, I’m looking forward to the prospect of discussing the placement in greater detail in an interview. “

Step 6: Farewell

If you found the name of the recruiter/employer, end your placement cover letter with ‘Yours Sincerely’. If you rebelled and wrote “to whom it may concern”, put ‘ Yours Faithfully’.

Want to set yourself up for success with your work experience application? Sign up to our FREE Career Coaching Course, a four-day virtual programme in October, to upskill yourself on CVs, applications and interviews.

Here is an example of a placement cover letter. This is the structure and general length you should be aiming for (approx 250 words) …

Dear Mr Attenborough,

I am writing regarding the vacancy for the marketing placement with IBM, as advertised on RateMyPlacement. Please find my attached CV.

I am particularly interested in this placement at IBM because of the focus on different areas of digital marketing. IBM is at the forefront of the digital marketing industry, and I am fascinated by the cloud-based software IBM provides for companies on email, web and social media. 

I have been reading about IBM’s most recent project, which aimed to improve customer experience across the buyer journey. It links closely to a project I completed in the first year of my Marketing degree, which centred around optimising the user experience for online retail.

I am halfway through a Marketing degree, and on course to achieve a 2:1. So far, I have focussed on digital marketing modules, which have imparted strong analytical and problem-solving skills. I am also now proficient in basic coding. My three years at Mecca Bingo have provided experience with customer service practices and other useful soft skills.

Thank you for considering my application, I’m looking forward to the prospect of discussing the placement in greater detail in an interview.

Yours Sincerely,

Kevin McCloud.

Things to remember…

Now you have the tools needed to craft a superb piece of career prose, there are a few things to keep in mind…

Online Placement Applications

1 . If you’re applying for a placement online, you’ll need to write your cover letter in a text box. Write it in Microsoft Word or Pages first, then copy and paste it into the text box. That way you can check your grammar and spelling beforehand.

2. If you’re sending your cover letter via email or attaching it to an online application, save it as a .pdf rather than a Word/Pages file. All computers can read PDFs, so there’ll be no problem when an employer opens the file.

3 . Always save your cover letter as ‘[Your Name] Cover Letter ‘. It looks clean, and employers will be able to find you easier.

Share this post:

Written by Conor

More posts by Conor

• How It Works
• Alcohol/Drugs
• Divorce/Marriage
• Domestic Abuse
• Eating Disorder
• Gambling Addiction
• Internet Addiction
• LGBTQ+ Concerns
• PTSD/Trauma
• Relationships
• Sexual Abuse
• Suicide/Self Harm
• Something Else
• Join Waitlist
• Client Login

Crafting a Stellar Cover Letter or Cold Email Pitch for a Mental Health Private Practice Internship, Practicum, or Clinical Supervision Placement

Landing a practicum, internship, or clinical supervision field placement at a mental health and counseling private practice can be an exciting opportunity to gain valuable firsthand experience. The demand for work at an individual or group private practice is high for mental health and counseling subfields such as social work, clinical psychology, marriage and family therapy (MFT), addictions counseling, and professional counseling. However, to land one of these experiences, it is crucial to  stand out from one’s peers  with a well-crafted cover letter or  cold email pitch  that captures the attention of potential hiring individual or group private practice owners. In this step-by-step guide, we will provide you with specific examples and tips to help you write a unique and targeted cover letter or cold email pitch tailored specifically for mental health and counseling individual or group private practice placements.

Step 1: Write an Attention-Grabbing Introduction

The first step is to begin your internship, practicum, or clinical supervision cover letter or cold email pitch by addressing the person to whom you are writing. Typically, in this setting, the person is the practice owner, or a therapist who is affiliated with a group practice. In the training capacity, they are usually the clinical supervisor , practicum mentor, or internship preceptor. If you do not have a specific name, use "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Practice Name] Team." Highlight your interest in joining their private practice and mention the specific role you are applying for, such as practicum student, intern, or clinical supervision candidate.

"Dear Dr. Smith,

I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in applying for a practicum placement as a mental health counselor at your esteemed private practice. As an enthusiastic and dedicated individual, I am eager to contribute to the excellent work being done by the members of your team."

Step 2: Highlight Your Qualifications and Skills

In this section, outline your relevant qualifications, skills, and educational background, especially those that relate to engaging in a mental health and counseling internship, practicum, or clinical supervision placement at a private practice. Emphasize your understanding of mental health and counseling individual or group private practices and display any experience or coursework you have completed that aligns with the needs of the private practice.

"With a master’s degree in psychology and coursework focused on counseling techniques, I have developed a solid foundation in understanding various therapeutic modalities and client-centered approaches. Additionally, my experience as a volunteer at a local community counseling center has honed my active listening skills and ability to provide empathetic support to individuals in distress."

Step 3: Express Your Interest in the Private Practice's Approach

Research the private practice's philosophy and therapeutic approach and demonstrate your alignment with their values. This shows that you have taken the time to understand their work and are genuinely interested in contributing to their mission. You can search for private practice internships, practicums, or clinical supervision using Mojozy , an online resource that connects trainees with clinical supervisors. Mojozy has a database of licensed clinical supervisors at individual or group private practices who offer internships, practicums, or clinical supervision.  Mojozy also provides information on the general approach, orientation, and the private practice's mental health subfield (ie., social work, clinical psychology, marriage and family therapy, professional counseling, substance abuse, etc.).

Find Mental Health Field Placement Sites

"I am particularly drawn to your private practice's commitment to a holistic approach, integrating evidence-based therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques. Your focus on empowering clients to achieve lasting well-being resonates strongly with my own values and professional goals. I am eager to contribute to your practice's dedication to promoting mental health and resilience within the community."

Step 4: Highlight Relevant Experience to Private Practice Settings

Discuss any  relevant experience   you have that relates to the services provided by the private practice in which you are interested. This could include previous practicum or internship experiences, workshops attended, or specialized training you have completed. Specifically, highlight any  experience working with diverse populations , trauma, substance abuse, or other areas relevant to the practice. Also mention if your mental health and counseling subfield is social work, professional counseling, marriage and family therapy (MFT), addictions counseling, or clinical psychology. 

"My previous practicum experience at a community mental health center allowed me to gain valuable insights into collaborating with individuals from various backgrounds, including those struggling with trauma and substance abuse. I facilitated support groups, conducted intake assessments, and collaborated with a multidisciplinary team to develop and implement treatment plans. These experiences have strengthened my ability to provide compassionate care and empathetic support to individuals facing complex mental health challenges."

Step 5: Explain How Your Short-Term and/or Long-Term Career Goals Relate to Private Practice Settings

Communicate to the recipient of your internship, practicum, or clinical supervision cover letter or cold email pitch your career goals in the mental health and counseling field and convey your dedication to ongoing professional development. Express your eagerness to learn from experienced licensed clinicians within the individual or group private practice specifically and emphasize your commitment to ethical practice and maintaining client confidentiality.

"As a dedicated aspiring mental health professional, my ultimate goal is to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals struggling with mental health issues. I am committed to ongoing professional development and actively seek opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills through continuing education workshops and supervision. I am inspired by the opportunity to gain experience from the experienced and licensed clinicians at your private practice, as their guidance and mentorship will undoubtedly contribute to my growth from trainee to a competent and compassionate mental health counselor. Moreover, I am fully committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical practice, maintaining client confidentiality, and ensuring a safe and supportive therapeutic environment."

Step 6: Conclude with Contact Information

Wrap up your internship, practicum, or clinical supervision cover letter or cold email pitch with a strong closing statement expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in joining the individual or group mental health private practice. Provide your contact information, including your phone number and email address, for further correspondence.

"In conclusion, I am truly excited about the possibility of contributing to your private practice and gaining invaluable experience in a supportive and professional environment. Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to further discuss how my skills and dedication align with your practice's vision during an interview. I can be reached at [Phone number] or [Email address] at your convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.

 Sincerely,

[Your Name]"

Step 7:  Integrate Keywords Relevant to Individual or Group Private Practices

Throughout your cold email pitch or cover letter, it is critical to incorporate keywords that pertain to internship, practicum, or clinical supervision private practice settings. This is so that your application and inquiry can be searchable and discovered by the hiring manager, whether that be a licensed clinical supervisor, clinical mentor, or practicum / internship preceptor. Below are just a few examples of keywords that can be integrated into your cold email pitch or cover letter. It is also important not to incorporate too many keywords such that it is obvious that you are engaging in “keyword stuff.”   That is, incorporate them naturally within the context of your article.

In conclusion, writing a standout cover letter or cold email pitch for a mental health and counseling private practice practicum, internship, or clinical supervision field placement site requires careful diligence and specificity. While there are  pros and cons  to engaging in mental health and counseling training in a private practice, arguably the pros outweigh the cons.  By following these step-by-step guidelines and incorporating specific examples, you can create a unique and targeted letter that highlights your qualifications, aligns with the practice's values, and demonstrates your genuine interest in the role. Keep in mind that every private practice has different requirements and preferences, so it is essential to thoroughly research and understand the practice to which you are applying. Good luck with your application process and the  exciting journey ahead  in your mental health and counseling career.

Account Login

Related Posts

• About Mojozy
• The Mojozy Story
• The Mojozy Team
• Work at Mojozy
• The Mojozy Blog
• User Reviews
• Find Internships
• Find Supervision
• Offer Internships
• Offer Supervision
• Find Paid Jobs
• Offer Paid Jobs
• Write For Us
• Password Retrieval
• Editorial Guidelines
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• All Rights Reserved

Cover letters

What to include.

You can include information like:

• competencies
• credentials
• types of experiences 
• demonstrated accomplishments

If you're responding to a job posting:

• identify the organization
• refer to the position you’re applying for
• address an individual who is hiring (if possible)
• describe how your experiences and skills match the requirements of the position and how this will be benefit the employer
• avoid just repeating information from your resume – this is your chance to provide some context

If you're sending a letter to an employer who isn't currently hiring:

• identify the type of position you’re interested in
• explain why you're contacting the organization or person
• outline how your experience and competencies will bring value
• indicate when and how you’re going to follow up

How to structure it

Every cover letter is different, so this is just a suggestion of what you may want to include.

Introductory paragraph

• state your purpose and why you are applying
• list the job title and organization name
• show that you’ve researched the organization, such as referencing its mission or vision statement
• indicate your enthusiasm and state what you’ll bring to the organization

Middle paragraph or paragraphs

• use an active voice
• group information around the job requirements (e.g., your organizational skills)
• avoid starting every sentence with “I”
• use transition phrases (e.g., additionally, also)
• give solid examples of your past experience and the skills you bring as a result

Closing paragraph

• thank the organization
• criminal record check, age limit, citizenship/residency, driver’s license
• provide your contact information, if applicable
• restate your interest in the position and express interest in an interview

Keep your cover letter to 1 page unless otherwise specified. Match the font and style of your résumé.

Here are a few examples of cover letters:

Standard cover letter

Student name 250-555-5555   [email protected]

November 1, 20XX

Employer name Employer job title Employer organization

Re: Position and competition number (if provided on the job posting)

Dear employer,

I am writing to apply for the Recreation Assistant Position with School Name as posted on the UVic job site. Throughout high school and university I have been involved in peer support and special needs assistance. I have a strong belief that recreation should be available to all members of our society.

While working as a counsellor at Camp Thunderbird, I gained experience leading groups of teenagers in outdoor activities. This experience also allowed me to work with teens with special needs, helping to accommodate them so that they could get the most out of the Camp Thunderbird environment. Additionally, I have been volunteering as a peer helper at UVic, where I counsel students who are having a difficult time. These experiences have opened my eyes to how important it is to be inclusive and supportive in all environments.

My volunteer background also includes coaching athletics at the high school level, where I worked mainly with girls’ basketball and volleyball teams. During my coaching experience, I developed the interpersonal communication and leadership skills that will help me excel as a recreation assistant. My enthusiasm and dedication are key attributes that I bring to everything I do. I also have a Class 4 driver’s license.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to meeting with you to discuss this position in greater detail.

Sincerely, UVic Student

• your contact information should match the information on your résumé
• include the address of the organization that is hiring
• address the cover letter to a person if possible
• use real and detailed examples to highlight your qualifications
• focus on why you’ll be an asset to the employer, not how you’ll benefit from the job
• tell the employer what other competencies you have to offer
• thank the employer for considering your application and request an interview

Job posting

This standard cover letter refers to the following job posting:

Job title: Recreation Assistant Job location: Victoria Region: Victoria (Capital Region) Salary/wage: 18.50 Hours per week: 37.5 Number of positions: 2

Job description:

The person in this position will facilitate the recreation inclusion of people with disabilities into community-based leisure and recreation opportunities. This occurs under the overall supervision of the employer name. Evaluates leisure and recreation needs of clients and the assistance they require in order to participate in community leisure and recreation opportunities. Provides assistance to individuals with disabilities while they pursue their leisure and recreation interests. Encourages relationship building by facilitating the inclusion of clients with their non-disabled peers.

Other related duties as assigned.

Skills required:

• commitment to the recreation inclusion process
• ability to work independently
• knowledge and/or experience working with people with disabilities
• good communication skills
• good organizational skills
• valid standard first aid and CPR certification
• no transcript required with your application

Special job requirements:

• Class 4 Driver’s license

Bulleted cover letter

Student name Phone: 250-555-5555    Email: [email protected]

May 1, 20XX

I recently attended a Co-op and Career Fair open to students in the Bachelor of Commerce program, and was impressed by the breadth of public services offered by your company name

After reviewing the key objectives of the bureau and learning of the GoProject initiative, I understand the need for innovation in marketing this project. I am excited to be considered for the marketing analyst position. I am a strong academic performer with comprehensive training in research and marketing and the high degree of professionalism and technical skills required to support your team in its goals.

As a student leader with more than three years’ experience in marketing, I can offer:

• familiarity with marketing principles and personal management, demonstrated by my success in several university-level marketing courses while working part-time
• ability to produce marketing materials, both online and in print
• creative and innovative thinking with experience running a small community-based arts collective
• strong research and analytical skills, developed through case competitions and volunteer experience with Researchers Ltd.
• significant experience with standard marketing tools (Adobe Creative Suite, HubSpot, Hootsuite) and statistical/database software (SPSS, Excel, Access)

As a self-motivated business student with a genuine interest in the GoProject, I look forward to sharing my strengths in an organization devoted to providing quality services to all the constituents in BC. I meet all of the funding criteria outlined in the position description and am available to begin immediately.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Kind regards, Student name

• state why the company interests you and how your skills and experience would be an asset

The bulleted cover letter refers to the following job posting:

Position: Marketing Analyst Employer: Employer name Address applications to: Employer name

This position reports to the senior marketing analyst with the employer name responsible for the GoProject Initiative and will provide general support to that role including such activities as:

• working with the team to develop a comprehensive marketing plan for the GoProject Initiative
• researching past marketing practices and best practices in other jurisdictions
• analysis of survey and test marketing results using database software (Excel/Access)
• development of marketing materials using a variety of media

Candidate qualifications:

• demonstrated interest in marketing field
• basic research skills
• strong Excel skills, familiarity with other statistical/database management software an asset
• familiarity with any marketing software would be an asset

Prospecting letter

A prospecting letter is also known as a letter of interest. It is sent to potential employers who may be hiring but who haven’t listed a specific job opening.

Employer name Employer title Employer organization

Dear Mr. Scott,

I could not pass up the opportunity to inquire about a potential employment opportunity at the National Judicial Institute. I am presently enrolled in the Master of Arts in Public Administration program at the University of Victoria. In my attached résumé, you will see I have a proven ability to design, plan and lead high-impact programs. I possess the organizational and administrative acumen needed to translate a strategic vision into a results-producing action plan. In addition, I am motivated and enthusiastic and would appreciate the opportunity to contribute to your organization’s success.

With strong communication skills and a dynamic presentation and public speaking style, let me note that one of my greatest strengths is my ability to build relationships within and outside an organization. My experience working with community groups is as extensive as it is diverse. As a consultant and program manager, I was often tasked with the administration, development and implementation of strategies to assist or improve various programs, using my natural ability to establish consensus among cross-functional lines.

Key competencies:

• proven ability to design, plan and lead high-impact training programs and curriculum and possess the necessary organizational and administrative acumen to translate a strategic vision into a results-producing action plan
• strong interpersonal skills including listening, communication and mediation skills
• manage the creation and development of training programs and materials and evaluation systems to meet the needs of internal and external stakeholders
• continuously capitalize on best practices and lessons learned in order to optimize use of available resources and ensure the key program objectives are met
• demonstrated ability to communicate at all levels of an organization
• advanced ability to think conceptually and strategically, through understanding and analyzing complex situations or problems, identifying patterns or connections and developing innovative solutions in an environment of change

I am goal oriented, driven and not afraid of hard work. I will follow up to see if we can arrange a meeting in the future.

Writing your cover letter

A general cover letter that doesn’t address the particular job posting won’t cut it. You need a cover letter that addresses the employer’s needs.

Steps to writing a cover letter

• Assess the needs of the organization and how you can bring value. For help with this, see how to deconstruct a job posting .
• Choose your format and write your first draft.
• Get feedback and make revisions.
• Proofread and submit your cover letter.

Cover letter tips

• Gather background research on the organization and address your letter to a specific person if possible (or use “Dear Hiring Committee” if you don’t have a contact name). You can do a web search for the employer to see if they've been in the news recently.
• Explain why you’re writing by mentioning the job and organization by name.
• Identify what interests you about the job and describe how you can add value.
• Use detailed examples to describe your accomplishments and qualifications. It’s not enough to say that you have the skills; employers want to know how and when you’ve used them.
• Tailor your cover letter to the job posting by addressing the specific responsibilities of the position and the skills you can bring.
• Use fewer words and make each statement count. 
• Use professional language, correct spelling, punctuation and grammar.
• Use the action verbs list  to find strong action words.
• Use a writing style that’s clear, straightforward and genuine.
• Thank the organization for considering your application and state that you're interested in learning about next steps.

This website stores cookies on your computer. These cookies are used to collect information about how you interact with our website and allow us to remember your browser. We use this information to improve and customize your browsing experience, for analytics and metrics about our visitors both on this website and other media, and for marketing purposes. By using this website, you accept and agree to be bound by UVic’s Terms of Use and Protection of Privacy Policy . If you do not agree to the above, you must not use this website.