ip law internship cover letter

Written Samples

15 sample cover letters for legal internship.

Securing a legal internship can be a competitive process, but a well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out from the crowd.

Your cover letter is your opportunity to showcase your qualifications, demonstrate your passion for the law, and explain why you’re the perfect fit for the internship.

Sample Cover Letters for Legal Internship

In this article, we’ll provide you with 15 sample cover letters tailored for various legal internship positions, giving you the inspiration and guidance you need to create a compelling cover letter of your own.

1. Environmental Law Internship

Subject: Application for Environmental Law Internship

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Environmental Law Internship position at your prestigious firm. As a second-year law student with a passion for environmental conservation and a keen interest in the legal aspects of environmental protection, I believe I would be an excellent fit for this role.

Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have gained a solid foundation in environmental law and policy. I have participated in moot court competitions focused on environmental issues and have volunteered with local organizations to raise awareness about the importance of environmental stewardship. I am eager to apply my knowledge and skills to real-world cases and contribute to your firm’s mission of protecting the environment through legal action.

I am impressed by your firm’s track record of successful litigation in environmental law cases and your commitment to advocating for sustainable practices. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from your experienced attorneys and gain hands-on experience in this field.

Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and writing sample for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.

[Your Name]

2. Criminal Law Internship

Subject: Application for Criminal Law Internship

I am excited to apply for the Criminal Law Internship position at your esteemed law firm. As a third-year law student with a strong interest in criminal justice, I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for this role.

Throughout my law school career, I have focused on developing my knowledge and expertise in criminal law. I have taken courses in criminal procedure, evidence, and trial advocacy, and have participated in mock trial competitions. Additionally, I have interned with the public defender’s office, where I gained valuable experience working with clients and assisting attorneys in case preparation.

I am drawn to your firm’s reputation for providing high-quality legal representation to clients in criminal cases. I admire your commitment to ensuring that every individual receives a fair trial and that their rights are protected throughout the legal process. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to your team and learn from your experienced attorneys.

3. Intellectual Property Law Internship

Subject: Application for Intellectual Property Law Internship

I am writing to apply for the Intellectual Property Law Internship position at your distinguished law firm. As a second-year law student with a background in computer science and a passion for protecting creative works and innovations, I believe I would be a valuable addition to your team.

Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have developed a strong foundation in intellectual property law. I have taken courses in patent law, trademark law, and copyright law, and have participated in moot court competitions focused on intellectual property issues. Additionally, my technical background has given me a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in this field.

I am impressed by your firm’s track record of representing clients in high-stakes intellectual property cases and your commitment to staying at the forefront of this rapidly evolving area of law. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from your experienced attorneys and contribute to your firm’s mission of protecting the rights of creators and innovators.

4. Corporate Law Internship

Subject: Application for Corporate Law Internship

I am excited to apply for the Corporate Law Internship position at your prestigious law firm. As a third-year law student with a strong interest in business and transactional law, I believe I would be an excellent fit for this role.

Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have gained a solid foundation in corporate law and business transactions. I have taken courses in mergers and acquisitions, securities regulation, and contract drafting, and have participated in negotiation competitions. Additionally, I have interned with a startup company, where I gained hands-on experience in drafting contracts and assisting with corporate governance matters.

I am drawn to your firm’s reputation for providing exceptional legal services to clients in a wide range of industries. I admire your commitment to helping businesses navigate complex legal issues and achieve their strategic objectives. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to your team and learn from your experienced attorneys.

5. Public Interest Law Internship

Subject: Application for Public Interest Law Internship

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Public Interest Law Internship position at your esteemed organization. As a second-year law student with a passion for social justice and a commitment to serving underrepresented communities, I believe I would be an excellent fit for this role.

Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have gained a deep understanding of the challenges facing marginalized communities and the role that legal advocacy can play in addressing these issues. I have participated in pro bono clinics, where I provided legal assistance to low-income clients, and have volunteered with organizations that work to promote racial and economic justice.

I am impressed by your organization’s track record of advocating for the rights of underserved communities and your commitment to using the law as a tool for social change. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from your experienced attorneys and contribute to your mission of advancing justice and equality.

6. Immigration Law Internship

Subject: Application for Immigration Law Internship

I am excited to apply for the Immigration Law Internship position at your respected law firm. As a third-year law student with a strong interest in immigration law and a commitment to serving immigrant communities, I believe I would be a valuable addition to your team.

Through my coursework and clinical experience, I have gained a deep understanding of the complexities of immigration law and the challenges facing immigrant communities. I have taken courses in asylum law, family-based immigration, and deportation defense, and have participated in an immigration law clinic where I assisted clients with a range of immigration matters.

I am drawn to your firm’s reputation for providing high-quality legal services to immigrants and their families. I admire your commitment to advocating for the rights of immigrants and helping them navigate the complex U.S. immigration system. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to your team and learn from your experienced attorneys.

7. Family Law Internship

Subject: Application for Family Law Internship

I am writing to apply for the Family Law Internship position at your esteemed law firm. As a second-year law student with a strong interest in family law and a passion for helping families in crisis, I believe I would be an excellent fit for this role.

Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have gained a solid foundation in family law and dispute resolution. I have taken courses in child custody, divorce, and domestic violence, and have participated in mediation training. Additionally, I have volunteered with a local domestic violence shelter, where I provided legal information and support to survivors.

I am impressed by your firm’s reputation for providing compassionate and effective legal services to clients going through difficult family transitions. I admire your commitment to helping families resolve conflicts and achieve positive outcomes for all parties involved. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from your experienced attorneys and contribute to your mission of serving families in need.

8. Labor and Employment Law Internship

Subject: Application for Labor and Employment Law Internship

I am excited to apply for the Labor and Employment Law Internship position at your distinguished law firm. As a third-year law student with a strong interest in workers’ rights and a commitment to promoting fair and equitable workplaces, I believe I would be a valuable addition to your team.

Through my coursework and clinical experience, I have gained a deep understanding of the legal issues facing workers and the role that attorneys can play in advocating for their rights. I have taken courses in employment discrimination, wage and hour law, and labor law, and have participated in a workers’ rights clinic where I assisted clients with a range of employment-related matters.

I am drawn to your firm’s reputation for providing exceptional legal services to employees and unions. I admire your commitment to fighting for workers’ rights and holding employers accountable for unlawful practices. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to your team and learn from your experienced attorneys.

9. Tax Law Internship

Subject: Application for Tax Law Internship

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Tax Law Internship position at your prestigious law firm. As a second-year law student with a background in accounting and a passion for tax law, I believe I would be an excellent fit for this role.

Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have gained a solid foundation in tax law and policy. I have taken courses in federal income taxation, corporate taxation, and international tax law, and have participated in a volunteer income tax assistance program where I helped low-income individuals prepare their tax returns.

I am impressed by your firm’s reputation for providing high-quality tax planning and controversy services to clients in a wide range of industries. I admire your commitment to staying at the forefront of this complex and ever-changing area of law. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from your experienced attorneys and contribute to your firm’s mission of helping clients navigate the tax code.

10. Real Estate Law Internship

Subject: Application for Real Estate Law Internship

I am excited to apply for the Real Estate Law Internship position at your respected law firm. As a third-year law student with a strong interest in real estate transactions and a passion for helping clients achieve their goals, I believe I would be a valuable addition to your team.

Through my coursework and clinical experience, I have gained a deep understanding of the legal issues involved in real estate transactions and the role that attorneys play in facilitating these deals. I have taken courses in property law, real estate finance, and land use regulation, and have participated in a real estate clinic where I assisted clients with a range of matters, including lease negotiations and property acquisitions.

I am drawn to your firm’s reputation for providing exceptional legal services to clients in the real estate industry. I admire your commitment to helping clients navigate complex transactions and achieve their business objectives. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to your team and learn from your experienced attorneys.

11. Healthcare Law Internship

Subject: Application for Healthcare Law Internship

I am writing to apply for the Healthcare Law Internship position at your esteemed law firm. As a second-year law student with a background in public health and a passion for improving access to healthcare, I believe I would be an excellent fit for this role.

Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have gained a solid foundation in healthcare law and policy. I have taken courses in health law, bioethics, and Medicare and Medicaid law, and have participated in a health law society where I organized events and discussions on current issues in healthcare policy.

I am impressed by your firm’s reputation for providing high-quality legal services to clients in the healthcare industry. I admire your commitment to helping healthcare providers navigate complex regulatory issues and ensure compliance with state and federal laws. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from your experienced attorneys and contribute to your firm’s mission of improving the healthcare system.

12. Bankruptcy Law Internship

Subject: Application for Bankruptcy Law Internship

I am excited to apply for the Bankruptcy Law Internship position at your distinguished law firm. As a third-year law student with a strong interest in debtor-creditor law and a passion for helping individuals and businesses in financial distress, I believe I would be a valuable addition to your team.

Through my coursework and clinical experience, I have gained a deep understanding of the legal issues involved in bankruptcy proceedings and the role that attorneys play in helping clients achieve a fresh start. I have taken courses in bankruptcy law, secured transactions, and consumer protection law, and have participated in a bankruptcy clinic where I assisted clients with a range of matters, including Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filings.

I am drawn to your firm’s reputation for providing compassionate and effective legal services to clients facing financial hardship. I admire your commitment to helping clients understand their options and achieve the best possible outcome for their situation. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to your team and learn from your experienced attorneys.

13. Civil Litigation Internship

Subject: Application for Civil Litigation Internship

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Civil Litigation Internship position at your prestigious law firm. As a second-year law student with a passion for advocacy and a keen interest in trial practice, I believe I would be an excellent fit for this role.

Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have gained a solid foundation in civil procedure and trial advocacy. I have taken courses in evidence, pretrial litigation, and alternative dispute resolution, and have participated in mock trial competitions where I honed my skills in oral argument and witness examination.

I am impressed by your firm’s reputation for providing exceptional legal representation to clients in a wide range of civil matters. I admire your commitment to zealous advocacy and your track record of success in the courtroom. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from your experienced litigators and contribute to your firm’s mission of achieving the best possible outcomes for your clients.

14. Entertainment Law Internship

Subject: Application for Entertainment Law Internship

I am excited to apply for the Entertainment Law Internship position at your respected law firm. As a third-year law student with a strong interest in the entertainment industry and a passion for protecting the rights of artists and creators, I believe I would be a valuable addition to your team.

Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have gained a deep understanding of the legal issues facing the entertainment industry and the role that attorneys play in advocating for their clients. I have taken courses in copyright law, trademark law, and music law, and have participated in an entertainment law society where I organized events and discussions on current issues in the industry.

I am drawn to your firm’s reputation for providing high-quality legal services to clients in the entertainment industry. I admire your commitment to helping artists and creators protect their intellectual property and navigate complex business deals. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to your team and learn from your experienced attorneys.

15. Sports Law Internship

Subject: Application for Sports Law Internship

I am writing to apply for the Sports Law Internship position at your esteemed law firm. As a second-year law student with a strong interest in the business and legal aspects of sports, I believe I would be an excellent fit for this role.

Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have gained a solid foundation in sports law and the unique challenges facing the sports industry. I have taken courses in sports law, antitrust law, and labor law, and have participated in a sports law clinic where I assisted clients with a range of matters, including player contracts and sponsorship agreements.

I am impressed by your firm’s reputation for providing exceptional legal services to clients in the sports industry, including professional teams, leagues, and athletes. I admire your commitment to helping clients navigate complex legal issues and achieve their business objectives in this highly competitive and dynamic industry. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from your experienced attorneys and contribute to your firm’s mission of serving clients at the intersection of sports and law.

Crafting a compelling cover letter is an essential step in securing a legal internship.

By highlighting your relevant skills, experiences, and interests, and demonstrating your passion for the specific area of law, you can set yourself apart from other candidates and increase your chances of landing your dream internship.

Use these sample cover letters as a starting point, but be sure to tailor your letter to the specific position and firm to which you are applying.

With a strong cover letter and a commitment to excellence, you’ll be well on your way to a successful career in the legal profession.

Your favourite senior outside college

Home » Job Tips » Resume Writing Tips » Cover Letters for Legal Interns

Cover Letters for Legal Interns: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you are a law student aspiring for the position of a legal intern, it is important to craft an effective cover letter. A cover letter allows you to highlight your professionalism, skills, and genuine interest in the legal field. This is why your cover letter should accurately showcase your qualifications, academic achievements, and relevant experiences that align with the internship requirements. To help you draft the perfect cover letter for a legal intern position we have developed this detailed guide.

Table of Contents

Essential Sections to Include in a Cover Letter for a Law Internship

A cover letter for a law internship is essential to introduce yourself as a candidate to a law firm or legal department and express your interest in the internship position. It highlights your relevant skills, experiences, and academic achievements to show the recruiters that you are a good fit for the role. Overall it serves as a personalized introduction, demonstrating your enthusiasm and qualifications for the law internship opportunity. You must include relevant sections in the cover letter for a legal internship.

1. A Letter Header

It is important to start with a professional letterhead to create a cover letter for a legal intern position. This should include your full name, phone number, and email address. Besides these basic contact details, include the name of your city and the postcode of the state you reside in.

2. Salutation

The salutation section of your cover letter for a law internship should maintain a professional tone and not be too informal. To maintain a professional tone, it is advisable, to begin with a greeting and follow it with the recruiter’s name, for instance, “ Dear Arjun”. However, if you can’t find the name of the recruiter, it is okay to address the recruiter as “Dear Hiring Manager”.

3. Introductory Paragraph

When writing your introductory paragraph, it is important to include personal details about yourself to give the reader a clear understanding of who you are. Begin by introducing yourself with your name and stating which position you are applying for.  It is also beneficial to mention if you are currently enrolled in law school or have recently graduated from one. Additionally, use this opportunity to showcase any notable accomplishments or experience that demonstrate why you would be an excellent fit for the role at hand. It is crucial to tailor your cover letter for a law firm internship to make a genuine connection with the hiring manager and demonstrate your enthusiasm for their organization.

4. Body Paragraphs

When writing the body for the cover letter for an internship at a law firm, focus on showcasing your achievements and abilities while also connecting them to the goals of the organization you are applying to.  If you have limited experience in law, it may be helpful to mention relevant coursework, volunteer work, or skills that can transfer over from other jobs. For instance, if you are seeking an internship at a public defender’s office, highlighting your top score in criminal law class could be beneficial.

5. Closing Paragraph

The closing paragraph of your cover letter for legal internship is a chance to make a lasting impression. It is crucial to show appreciation for the recipient’s time and consideration. Furthermore, include your contact information, such as a telephone number or email address for further discussion.

6. Conclusion and Signature

It is important to maintain a professional tone when concluding your legal intern cover letter. It is also important to avoid sounding overly familiar. Ending phrases such as “Sincerely,” “Kind regards,” or “Yours truly” are all appropriate ways to sign off on a cover letter for a law firm internship.

Also Read:   How to Write Cover Letter for Internship

Legal Intern Cover Letter Template

Take a look at this template for a cover letter for legal interns to get an idea of what your cover letter should look like.

Explore our comprehensive guide on  cover letter formats  and craft a winning application today!”

Cover Letter Sample for Law Internship

Here is a professional cover letter sample for a legal internship to help you create your personalized letter. Make sure to follow the tone and style of writing mentioned here:

Tips For Crafting a Compelling Cover Letter for a Law Internship

Here are some practical tips to help you create a professional cover letter for internship at law firm.

1. Be Concise

It is essential to only include relevant and well-written details. A lengthy and unfocused application letter for a law internship will not be engaging or effective, so it is best to keep the content concise yet informative.

2. Use Professional Tone

Maintaining a professional tone throughout your legal internship cover letter is paramount. The legal field demands a high level of professionalism, and your cover letter should reflect your ability to communicate in a formal, polished manner. Avoid casual language, slang, or overly colloquial phrasing that could detract from the seriousness of your application.

3. Customize Cover Letter

Avoid using the same cover letter for every legal internship you apply to. Personalize your cover letter by including relevant information about the specific role or company. A generic cover letter shows little enthusiasm for the position at hand.

4. Use Proper Formatting

Cover letters are typically limited to one page, so it is important to express yourself succinctly. Make sure your margins are set at a minimum of a three-quarters inch on the left, right, and topsides, and half an inch on the bottom. Choose a clear and easy-to-read font such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Helvetica that matches the font used in your resume.

5. Review and Proofread

Ensure your legal intern cover letter is error-free and well-written. Proofreading is essential before submission. Additionally, it’s recommended to seek feedback from others on your cover letter for a legal internship as they may catch mistakes or offer valuable insights that you might have overlooked.

Crafting an effective cover letter for a legal intern requires careful consideration and attention to detail. It is important to showcase your relevant skills and experience while also conveying your enthusiasm and passion for the field of law. By tailoring your cover letter utilizing proper formatting, and evaluating and reading your cover letter, you can increase your chances of standing out from other applicants and securing a valuable internship opportunity in the legal industry. If this has been helpful to you, let us know your thoughts and suggestions in the comment section below. Also, check out our blog on the top 10 highest-paying law jobs in India .

Answer: You can compose a cover letter for a legal internship using the following format, “Dear [hiring manager’s name], Based on my [relevant education and experience], I believe that I possess the qualities necessary to excel in the role of an intern at [company name]. My proficiency in [two, or three skills] makes me well-suited for this opportunity.”

Answer: Typically, a cover letter for a legal internship should range from half a page to one full page. Ideally, it should contain 250-400 words and consist of three to six paragraphs.

Answer: Avoid starting the cover letter with, “My name is (),” phrase as the recipient already knows your name and it may make you appear inexperienced.

Answer: Begin by stating your purpose for writing and specify the job or field you are seeking employment in. Also, mention where you learned about this opportunity.

Answer: A cover letter is typically one page and submitted with your job application, along with your CV or resume. Its main function is to introduce yourself and provide a brief overview of your work experience.

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Harshita is an English Literature graduate from the University of Delhi with 3 years of experience in Content Writing and Editing. Dedicated to her craft, she loves creating magic with words. She is a big fan of hoarding cute planners and journals and can be seen watching FRIENDS (almost EVERYTIME) in her spare time. Her meticulous attention to detail makes her stand out from the crowd. A typo epidemic is her worst nightmare!

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Sample cover letter for Internship position at WIPO

Got the job yes.

APPLICATION FOR THE POSITION OF AN INTERN I am writing to express my strong desire to be considered for the internship position recently advertised by your organization. A recent Nigerian bar qualified lawyer, I have a strong interest in Intellectual Property (IP) Law. I am particularly interested in a position with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), because as a United Nations specialized agency, WIPO has an incredible knowledge bank of global IP practices. A corporate finance law postgraduate from the University of Westminster, London, I have experience doing research on behalf of Investment banks. I have developed advanced research skills and I am very commercially aware and would like to apply this to a position with your organization and gain exposure to global IP laws. As a citizen of a country with a movie industry estimated to be worth billions of dollars, and only a fraction of this is realized by industrypractitioners because of widespread counterfeiting and piracy , I understand firsthand the damage IP crime can do to an economy and the need for a strong IP regime. I believe that an internship with WIPO, will better equip me with the tools to contribute my quota towards the development of a strong IP regime in my country. As an Associate at one of Nigeria's foremost law firm, I have gained a relatively enormous practical exposure in the field of intellectual property law within a short period of time and this has spurred in me, further interest in Intellectual property law. I was part of a team that pursued and secured a settlement with a major mobile telecommunications company, for the unauthorized use of a client's songs as caller ring back tunes on its platform. I was part of a team that conducted research as part of efforts towards the drafting of a new anti-counterfeiting law for Lagos State of Nigeria. I am currently leading efforts in the recovery of the domain name of one of Nigeria's most accomplished musical performers via the WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center, under the Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy (UDRP). I am keen to explore knowledge of IP law at a global level and an internship at WIPO presents the perfect opportunity. With the many successes WIPO has achieved over the years, it is the most appropriate place for me to gain exposure to IP Law because of its high standards and thorough work ethic. Also, it fits with my career aspiration of becoming a highly skilled IP Lawyer. I possess excellent communication, presentation, negotiation and interpersonal skills. I have acquired the ability to work under pressure and tight deadlines. I am organized and methodical with excellent time management, prioritization and planning. I have experience working in multi- cultural and multi- lingual environment. I am currently taking intensive classes to improve my French language skills. Furthermore, I am a quick learner, hard working and driven by goals. Nothing provides me with more satisfaction than making a contribution to the success of a task as part of a team. I welcome the opportunity to interview at your convenience. If you should require any additional materials, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely yours,

Samuel Orji

Legal Intern Cover Letter Example

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Start your Legal Intern cover letter with a professional greeting addressed directly to the hiring manager, if their name is available. If not, use a general salutation like "Dear Hiring Manager." Then, introduce yourself and state the position you're applying for. Mention where you found the job posting and express your interest in the role. For example, "I am a third-year law student at XYZ University and I am writing to apply for the Legal Intern position posted on your website." Make sure to convey enthusiasm for the opportunity and briefly mention why you are a good fit for the role. This could be based on your academic achievements, relevant coursework, or previous internships.

The best way for Legal Interns to end a cover letter is by expressing gratitude and showing enthusiasm for the potential opportunity. You should reiterate your interest in the position and the firm, and express your eagerness to contribute and learn. For example, you could say, "Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your team and learning from the wealth of experience at your firm." Also, make sure to include a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name. Remember, the ending of your cover letter is your final chance to make a strong impression, so make it count.

Legal Interns should include the following elements in their cover letter: 1. Contact Information: At the top of the letter, include your name, address, phone number, and email address. If applicable, also include your LinkedIn profile or professional website. 2. Professional Greeting: Address the hiring manager by name if possible. If you can't find the name, use a professional greeting such as "Dear Hiring Manager." 3. Introduction: In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and state the position you're applying for. Mention where you found the job posting. 4. Body of the Letter: This is where you sell yourself. Highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. As a legal intern, you should focus on your legal research skills, analytical abilities, knowledge of legal terminology, and any relevant coursework or previous internships. Make sure to provide specific examples. For instance, you might discuss a research project you completed in law school or a case you worked on during a previous internship. 5. Explanation of Interest: Explain why you're interested in this particular internship. This could be because of the firm's reputation, the opportunity to gain experience in a particular area of law, or the chance to work with a specific attorney you admire. 6. Closing Paragraph: Reiterate your interest in the position and thank the hiring manager for considering your application. Mention that you're looking forward to the possibility of discussing the internship further in an interview. 7. Professional Closing: Close the letter with a professional sign-off such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name. 8. Enclosure Notation: Finally, if you're sending additional documents with the cover letter (like a resume or transcripts), include an "Enclosures" or "Attachments" notation at the bottom. Remember, a cover letter is your chance to make a strong first impression. Be sure to proofread carefully for any errors, and consider having a mentor, career counselor, or trusted peer review it as

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Legal Intern Cover Letter Examples & Writing Guide

• Updated March 12, 2023
• Published February 21, 2023

Are you looking for a Legal Intern cover letter example? Read our ultimate Legal Intern cover letter writing guide and learn from tips, examples, and proven strategies to land a job interview.

A legal intern typically helps lawyers and legal staff by providing clerical and administrative support. This may include conducting legal research, preparing legal documents, attending court hearings and trials, collecting evidence and data, and doing other tasks related to supporting the legal team. Legal interns may also be asked to provide support in areas such as public relations, business development, and other related roles.

For example, a legal intern may be asked to conduct legal research on a particular legal issue. They may be asked to draft legal documents such as pleadings, discovery requests, and other legal documents. Another example is attending court hearings and trials, and helping compile evidence and data for the legal team. Interns may also be asked to help organize and file legal documents in the office or help attorneys with filing motions, briefs, and other legal papers with the court.

In addition to the administrative and clerical duties, legal interns may be asked to help out in other areas as well, such as public relations, business development, and other related roles. This may include writing press releases, creating brochures and other marketing materials, helping to create client presentations, and other tasks related to the firm’s public relations strategy.

Overall, legal internships provide the opportunity to gain experience in a variety of areas related to the legal field. It can be a great way to gain hands-on experience while learning the ropes of the legal profession.

Related :  What Does a Legal Intern Do?

Legal Intern Cover Letter

Cover letters are an essential component of the job application process, and this is especially true for legal intern positions. As a legal intern, you will be working alongside experienced attorneys, and your cover letter is your chance to make a strong first impression and showcase your qualifications. A well-written cover letter can help you stand out from the competition and increase your chances of landing the job.

When it comes to writing a cover letter for a legal intern position, it’s important to focus on your relevant skills and experiences. This could include your knowledge of legal research, your ability to work well under pressure, and your ability to communicate effectively with clients and colleagues. Additionally, it’s important to tailor your cover letter to the specific position and firm you are applying to, highlighting how your qualifications align with the needs of the organization. By doing this, you can demonstrate your commitment to the field and your readiness to take on the responsibilities of a legal intern.

Legal Intern Cover Letter Example 1

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I am writing to express my interest in the Legal Intern position that is currently available at [Company Name]. I am a highly motivated and dedicated individual who is eager to gain hands-on experience in the legal field. I believe that my skills, education, and experience make me an excellent candidate for this opportunity.

I am currently a second-year law student at [University Name], and I have been actively involved in various legal organizations and activities on campus. I have a strong understanding of legal principles and have gained valuable knowledge in a variety of legal areas, including contract law, constitutional law, and criminal law. I have also been a research assistant for a professor, helping with case analysis and legal briefs.

I have a strong work ethic and am committed to delivering high-quality work. I am also a quick learner and am able to adapt to new situations easily. I am confident that my skills, experience, and passion for the law will make me an asset to your team. I am excited about the opportunity to work with and learn from experienced legal professionals at [Company Name] and am committed to working hard and making a meaningful contribution.

Thank you for considering my application. I would love the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Legal Intern Cover Letter Example 2

I am writing to express my interest in the Legal Intern position at your esteemed law firm. As a recent graduate of XYZ Law School, I am eager to apply my knowledge and skills to real-world legal matters and gain hands-on experience in the legal field.

Throughout my law school education, I have gained a strong understanding of legal research and analysis, as well as the ability to apply legal principles to practical situations. I have also developed excellent writing and communication skills, which I believe would be an asset to your team.

In addition, I have completed internships with both a private law firm and a public interest organization, where I assisted with legal research, drafting pleadings, and client communication. These experiences have allowed me to learn from experienced attorneys and have given me a glimpse of the legal profession.

I am excited to bring my enthusiasm, dedication, and analytical skills to your firm and contribute to your team’s efforts to provide outstanding legal services to clients. I am confident that this opportunity would give me the chance to learn, grow, and make meaningful contributions to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you in person about my qualifications and how I can contribute to your law firm.

Legal Intern Cover Letter Example 3

I am writing to express my interest in the Legal Intern position at [Company]. I am a [year] law student at [University], and I am excited about the opportunity to gain valuable experience and contribute to the team at [Company].

I have always been passionate about the legal field, and I have honed my skills through various internships and volunteer opportunities. I have experience working in both the private and public sectors, which has provided me with a well-rounded understanding of the legal industry.

During my time as an intern at [Previous Internship], I assisted attorneys with legal research, drafted legal documents, and attended client meetings. I also had the opportunity to observe court proceedings and assist with trial preparation. These experiences have taught me the importance of attention to detail and the ability to work well under pressure.

In addition to my internships, I have also been actively involved in my university’s law clinic. I have worked with clients from underserved communities to assist them with legal issues such as immigration and housing. This experience has not only helped me develop my legal skills but also taught me the importance of empathy and compassion in the legal profession.

I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong fit for the Legal Intern position at [Company]. I am eager to learn from the team at [Company] and contribute to the firm’s success. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to meet with you to discuss my qualifications further.

Legal Intern Cover Letter Example 4

I am writing to apply for the Legal Intern position at [Company Name]. I am a second-year law student at [University Name], and I am excited about the opportunity to gain practical experience and contribute to the legal team at [Company Name].

Throughout my legal education, I have demonstrated a strong commitment to excellence in both my academics and extracurricular activities. I have gained a solid foundation in legal research and writing, and I have taken courses in [relevant courses], which have provided me with a comprehensive understanding of [relevant area of law]. Additionally, as a member of [law school organization], I have had the opportunity to participate in [relevant experience], which has honed my legal analysis and problem-solving skills.

I am confident that my skills, knowledge, and passion for the law will enable me to make a valuable contribution to the legal team at [Company Name]. I am eager to learn more about the legal issues facing [Company Name] and to assist with research, document review, and drafting of legal documents. I am also excited about the opportunity to observe and participate in meetings and court proceedings, which will provide me with valuable practical experience.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the success of [Company Name] as a legal intern, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

Legal Intern Cover Letter Example 5

I am writing to express my interest in the Legal Intern position at your esteemed organization. With a strong passion for the legal field and a commitment to excellence, I am confident in my ability to make a meaningful contribution to your team.

As a current law student at XYZ University, I have gained a solid understanding of various legal principles and have honed my research and writing skills. Through my coursework and participation in various legal clinics, I have become well-versed in areas such as contract law, intellectual property law, and litigation. Furthermore, my previous internships with [previous internships or work experiences] provided me with valuable experience in legal research and drafting, as well as the opportunity to work with clients and assist attorneys in various legal matters.

I am particularly drawn to your organization because of its reputation for providing high-quality legal services and its commitment to [specific values or mission of the organization]. I am excited about the opportunity to work alongside a team of dedicated professionals and contribute to the organization’s efforts.

I am a hardworking, detail-oriented individual with excellent communication and analytical skills. I am eager to apply my knowledge and skills in a real-world setting and to gain valuable experience that will help me to become a well-rounded attorney.

I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you in person to discuss my qualifications and learn more about the internship opportunities available. Please feel free to contact me to schedule an interview at your convenience. Thank you for considering my application.

Legal Intern Cover Letter Writing Tips

Below you will find some general and specific tips that you can use to your advantage when writing your cover letter.

General Tips:

• Keep it brief: Your cover letter should be no more than one page in length.
• Tailor your letter: Customize your cover letter to fit the specific position and company you are applying to.
• Use formal language: A cover letter for a legal intern position should be written in a formal and professional tone.
• Highlight your relevant skills and experiences: Emphasize any experience or skills you have that are relevant to the position, such as legal research, legal writing, and critical thinking.
• Show your enthusiasm: Express your interest and enthusiasm for the position and the company.

Specific Tips:

• Mention any relevant coursework: If you have taken any courses related to the field, mention them and how they have prepared you for the role.
• Show your legal knowledge: Show that you have a good understanding of legal concepts and terminology.
• Demonstrate your research skills: Highlight any research or analytical skills you have developed through coursework, internships or other experiences.
• Emphasize your attention to detail: Legal work requires meticulous attention to detail, so be sure to highlight your ability to pay attention to small details.
• Provide relevant examples: Use specific examples of your skills and experiences to demonstrate your qualifications for the role.
• Show your willingness to learn: Emphasize your eagerness to learn and willingness to take on new challenges, as an intern position requires a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn new things.
• End with a strong closing statement: Close your cover letter with a strong statement, asking for an interview or reiterating your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position.

Related : District Attorney vs. Public Defender – What’s The Difference?

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Cover Letter For Law Internship: Example And Tips

Discover how to write a standout cover letter for a law internship. This guide includes writing tips, common mistakes to avoid, and sample letters.

Sanjoy Khan Choudhury

Read more posts by this author.

Landing a coveted law internship requires more than an impressive resume; it demands a captivating cover letter showcasing your unique abilities and fervor for the legal profession.

This blog is your personal guide to unlocking the secrets of a standout cover letter tailored specifically for your dream law internship.

We provide you with examples of cover letters, accompanied by invaluable tips, to help you craft a compelling narrative that resonates with potential employers.

We will cover:

• Understanding the role of a legal intern
• Sample cover letters for law internship
• Writing a tailored cover letter
• Avoiding common mistakes
• Adding those final touches

With these tips and tricks, you'll be well on your way to catching that hiring manager's attention. Let's dive in!

Understanding the Role of a Legal Intern

Getting a legal internship is a big step. It's a great chance for you to get a feel for the law world. But first, you need to know what a legal intern does.

• A legal intern helps with tasks like:
• Legal research
• Preparing legal documents
• Assisting in court

By understanding these tasks, you can write a cover letter that shows you're ready for the job. You'll know what skills to highlight and how you can help the team.

So, before you start writing, do your homework about the internship. It'll make a big difference!

Now, let us review some sample law internship cover letters to get better clarity.

Cover Letter for Law Internship Example 1

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am Jane Doe, currently in my second year of Law School at XYZ University, applying for the summer legal internship program advertised on your firm's website.

While pursuing my law degree, I developed a keen interest in environmental law. I was particularly attracted by the case of Doe vs. Company, where your firm achieved a significant win for the environment.

During my studies, I specialized in environmental legislation and contributed to successfully implementing a campus-wide recycling initiative.

My passion for law goes beyond academic interest. I've been active in our university's mock trial team, which has honed my skills in legal research, document preparation, and case presentation. I am eager to bring these skills to your firm and learn from the experienced attorneys there.

The mentorship and practical experience offered by your internship program are unparalleled. I am excited about working in such a dynamic environment and contributing to your ongoing cases.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing my application further.

Sincerely, Jane Doe (Contact information)

Cover Letter for Law Internship Example 2

I am John Smith, a final-year law student at ABC Law School. I am writing to express my interest in your firm's summer legal internship program. During my time at law school, I have developed a strong interest in criminal law. I was particularly impressed by your firm's commitment to justice in the recent case of People vs. XYZ.

In preparation for my career in criminal law, I have taken courses such as Criminal Procedure and Constitutional Law, earning top grades. My coursework has prepared me for many tasks listed in your internship description.

Outside of class, I serve as a member of our school's Moot Court Honors Board, where I have honed my legal research and litigation skills. I am eager to apply these skills to real-world cases at your firm.

I am drawn to your firm's broad range of cases and the opportunity to learn from attorneys with diverse specialties. I am eager to contribute my energy, dedication, and legal competencies to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to further discussing the potential of my contributions.

Best regards, John Smith (Contact information)

Cover Letter for Law Internship Example 3

I'm Lisa White, a law student in my final year at LMN University, applying for your summer legal internship program.

I specialize in corporate law, where your firm has been making strides. The legal battle you recently won in Company vs. Corporation was impressive and inspiring.

During my academic journey, I've consistently been on the dean's list and successfully led the Legal Aid Society at LMN University. These experiences have taught me a strong understanding of legal research and document preparation.

Your firm's commitment to ethical business practices and continuous professional development greatly appeals to me. I am enthusiastic about contributing my understanding of corporate law, dedication, and perseverance to your team.

I appreciate your time and consideration. I look forward to discussing my application further.

Best regards, Lisa White (Contact information)

These samples should guide you as you write your cover letter for a law internship.

Remember, it's important to personalize your cover letter. It will give you a chance to align your experiences and interests to the specific law firm you are applying to.

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Law Internship

We have listed some steps; following them will help you on your way to writing an impressive cover letter:

1. Start Strong: Begin with a formal hello. Say who you are and what you're applying for. Make it clear from the start.

For example, " Dear Hiring Manager, I am John Doe, a second-year law student at XYZ University, applying for the summer legal internship position. "

2. Show Your Law Degree: Please indicate if you have a law degree or are currently studying law. Share key courses or projects that connect to the internship.

For example, " I am pursuing a law degree with a concentration in corporate law. My coursework, including Mergers & Acquisitions and Contract Law, has prepared me for the responsibilities of this internship. "

3. Talk About Legal Skills: Mention skills you've learned that are useful for legal work. This might include:

• Preparing documents, or
• Helping in court

For example, " During a mock trial activity in school, I gained practical experience in preparing legal documents and presenting arguments, which honed my legal research and analytical skills. "

4. Share Your Love for Law: Talk about why you love law and why this legal internship interests you. Show your passion!

For example, " I have always been fascinated by the complex intricacies of corporate law. I am particularly interested in your internship because it allows me to work on corporate compliance and regulatory matters. "

5. Why This Law Firm?: Say why you want to intern there. It could be because of:

• Their team, or
• What you can learn there

For example, " I am drawn to XYZ Law Firm because of your reputation for mentorship and your innovative approach to corporate law. I am especially interested in your pro bono work with start-ups, which aligns with my desire to support emerging businesses. "

6. Thank the Manager: End by thanking the hiring manager for considering you. Show hope for further discussion about how your skills and passion fit the role.

For example, " Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of contributing my passion for corporate law and my academic learnings to your team. "

Sign Off: End with a professional goodbye. Then write your name and how to contact you.

For example, " I look forward to discussing my application further. Sincerely, John Doe. Contact: [email protected] , (123) 456-7890. "

Now you're ready to write your cover letter for a law internship!

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Cover Letter for Law Internship

Even the best of us can make mistakes when writing cover letters. Here are some common ones to watch out for:

Long-Winded: Keep your cover letter short and sweet. No more than one page. The hiring manager is busy. They'll thank you for being direct.

Too General: Be specific about why you want this internship. And why at this law firm. A cover letter that could be for any law firm won't impress.Remember to say why you want to work at this law firm. This shows that you've done your research.

Typos or Errors: Mistakes can make you seem careless. After writing, read your cover letter again. Then read it out loud. You can also ask a friend to look at it.

Wrong Tone: You're applying for a legal internship, not a friend's party. Keep the tone formal and professional.

Avoiding these common mistakes can help your cover letter shine. Now, let's get that internship!

Finally, increase your proficiency in cover letter crafting and broaden your outlook by navigating our vast selection of cover letters designed for various roles. Deepen your comprehension and gain key insights to refine your cover letter creation process.

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Wrapping Up: The Final Touches

Now you have the nuts and bolts to write a standout cover letter for a law internship. Still, before you hit that "send" button, here are a few finishing touches to consider:

Tailor the Letter: Don’t just copy and paste the same letter for each internship application. Instead, tailor your letter to the role and the company you are applying to.

Proofread: Look over your letter one more time. Hunt for any typos or grammar goofs. A clean, mistake-free letter is a joy to read.

Formatting: Though the content is important, it's the presentation that will make your cover letter stand out. So don't forget to format your letter properly. Use simple fonts and a readable font size.

Contact Info: At the end, give your contact details. An email address and phone number will do. This makes it easy for the hiring manager to reach you.

Follow Up: If you don't hear back after a few weeks, send a polite follow-up email. This shows you're still interested.

Creating a strong cover letter for a law internship might feel hard at first. But with this guide, I hope you're feeling ready and confident. Your cover letter is your shot to shine, share your love for the law, and take a step toward your dream internship. Good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. how do i write a cover letter for law school.

Start with a formal greeting. Introduce yourself, mention your law degree, highlight relevant skills and experiences, express your interest in the law school, and conclude professionally.

2. How to fill an internship diary for law students?

Document daily tasks, reflect on what you've learned, note challenges faced, and how you've overcome them. Mention any memorable interactions or legal cases you've observed.

3. What should the tone of my cover letter for a law internship be?

Your cover letter's tone should be professional yet personable, showing both your seriousness and your passion for the field.

4. What skills should I highlight in my cover letter for a law internship?

Focus on skills like legal research, critical thinking, communication, problem-solving and any relevant legal coursework or experiences.

5. Is it necessary to mention my law degree in the cover letter?

Yes, mentioning your law degree highlights your relevant educational background.

This article has been written by Sanjoy Khan Choudhury . He works as a Content Marketing Specialist at Vantage Lens . His areas of interest include music, marketing, cuisine, and anime. When he’s not writing, he’s usually singing to the tune of his guitar or finding some weird way to cook his meal.

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Resume Worded   |  Career Strategy

14 patent attorney cover letters.

Approved by real hiring managers, these Patent Attorney cover letters have been proven to get people hired in 2024. A hiring manager explains why.

Table of contents

• Patent Attorney
• Senior Patent Attorney
• Senior Patent Counsel
• Intellectual Property Associate
• Patent Litigation Associate
• Patent Agent
• Senior Patent Agent
• Alternative introductions for your cover letter
• Patent Attorney resume examples

Patent Attorney Cover Letter Example

Why this cover letter works in 2024, highlighting ip strategy success.

This cover letter showcases a specific accomplishment related to the job requirements, demonstrating the candidate's ability to develop and execute effective IP strategies.

Sharing a Major Accomplishment

By mentioning a high-stakes lawsuit and the significant amount saved for the client, the candidate demonstrates their expertise in the field and their ability to achieve tangible results.

Expressing Genuine Excitement

Instead of using cliches, this cover letter conveys genuine excitement about the role by discussing the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies at IBM.

Emphasizing Collaboration and Learning

This sentence highlights the candidate's eagerness to collaborate with a talented team at IBM, showing that they value teamwork and continuous learning.

Demonstrate Personal Connection to the Industry

In your cover letter, it pays to show how your personal passion intersects with your professional expertise. As seen here, you're not just a legal professional, but also someone who has a genuine interest and understanding of the technology industry. This makes you more relatable and shows that you'll bring passion to your work.

Quantify Your Achievements

By providing concrete numbers on your past achievements, you're offering a glimpse into your potential contributions to the new company. It's not just about saying what you did, but also showing how well you did it. This quantification not only substantiates your claims but also builds trust.

Highlight Your Problem-Solving Skills

Saving your company money is a concrete way of showing how you've utilized your skills to solve major problems. It's a testament to your strategic thinking and meticulousness, two qualities that are highly valuable for a Patent Attorney.

Expressing genuine admiration for the company's mission

Getting into why you admire a company's work can show you've done your homework and that you're genuinely passionate about joining their team. In this case, you highlight Intel's commitment to protecting its innovations, which aligns perfectly with your patent law background. This demonstrates that you're a candidate who shares the company's values, not just someone looking for any job.

Highlighting collaboration as a strength

When you mention your strategy of working closely with inventors, it's a powerful testament to your team-oriented approach. It's not just about your skills as a patent attorney, but how you use these skills to engage with others and understand their inventions. This shows potential employers that you're not just good at what you do but you're also a great team player.

Framing the role as an exciting opportunity

You're not just applying for a job; you're excited about the opportunity to work on the cutting edge of technology. This enthusiasm can be infectious, and it signals to a hiring manager that you're likely to bring a high level of energy and commitment to your role.

Visualizing your future contribution

When you talk about contributing to Intel's legacy, you're showing that you're forward-thinking and ambitious. You're not just thinking about what you can get from Intel, but what you can give. This shows a long-term investment in the company's success.

Show excitement for the patent attorney role

Expressing enthusiasm for the job and the company shows you have done your homework and are genuinely interested in being part of their team.

Demonstrate your skills in legal argument construction

Your ability to analyze and simplify complex information into persuasive arguments is crucial for a patent attorney. Mentioning specific accomplishments helps illustrate your capability.

Highlight your unique mix of skills for intellectual property law

Emphasizing a combination of technical knowledge and legal skill sets you apart as a well-rounded candidate for the patent attorney position.

Value the firm's culture and expertise

Showing appreciation for the company’s work environment and its standing in the industry demonstrates you are looking for a meaningful and synergistic work relationship.

Express eagerness for a discussion on mutual growth

Ending your cover letter on a note of anticipation for a conversation about how you can contribute to their success invites the hiring manager to take the next step.

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Express excitement for the patent attorney position

Showing enthusiasm for both the role and the firm signals that you are motivated and likely to be committed if hired.

Share moments that defined your career path

Describing pivotal experiences, like drafting your first patent application, personalizes your cover letter and showcases your dedication to the field.

Demonstrate your achievements with examples

Highlighting significant successes, such as securing a patent that led to a lucrative deal, proves your effectiveness and potential value to the firm.

Align with the firm's technological ambitions

Expressing alignment with the company's focus on emerging technologies shows that your interests and skills are a good match for their forward-thinking strategy.

Position yourself as a strong candidate

Asserting that your background and passion make you a good fit emphasizes your readiness to contribute to the firm’s success in meaningful ways.

Show your enthusiasm for the patent attorney role

Your excitement about applying demonstrates a genuine interest in the firm and its specialty areas, making you a more appealing candidate.

Highlight your technical and legal experience

Detailing your background in electrical engineering and success in patent law provides a clear understanding of your qualifications and achievements.

Demonstrate ability to communicate complex ideas

Explaining that you can make complex technical concepts understandable to diverse audiences shows your interpersonal skills and enhances your suitability for the role.

Align with the firm’s focus on emerging technologies

Expressing your interest in the firm’s dedication to innovation and technology indicates that your passions align with the company’s goals.

Express gratitude and eagerness to contribute

Thanking the firm for considering your application and stating your desire to discuss your fit for the role further shows politeness and eagerness.

Senior Patent Attorney Cover Letter Example

Show your long-term interest.

By sharing a personal anecdote related to the company's product, you're showing a long-term interest and a deep understanding of its impact. This demonstrates that your application isn't just about getting a job, but about joining an organization you genuinely admire.

Assert Your Leadership Abilities

Managing a patent portfolio for five years and securing an increase in issued patents shows your ability to lead and deliver results. As a Senior Patent Attorney, leadership skills are crucial, and this example gives evidence of yours.

Combine Your Expertise

Your technical background in electrical engineering coupled with extensive experience in patent prosecution makes your profile unique. It's important to highlight this combination as it's not common and can add significant value to the role you're applying for.

Show your admiration for the firm

Tell them why this company stands out to you. It shows you know their work and share their values.

Highlight your patent strategy expertise

Discuss your experience in patent strategy to show you have the skills they need.

Illustrate your leadership in innovation

Share how you've led teams or projects to improve invention quality, showing you can bring out the best in others.

Express your enthusiasm for joining the team

Make it clear why you're excited about this role, showing you're a good fit for their culture.

Demonstrate your legal and technical skills

Explain how your combination of legal knowledge and technical understanding will add value to their team.

Senior Patent Counsel Cover Letter Example

Aligning the company's challenge with your expertise.

When you call IBM's patent portfolio a "unique challenge," it shows that you're not looking for an easy job—you're looking for something that will push you and allow you to use your expertise. This can reassure a potential employer that you're motivated and ready to take on whatever comes your way.

Sharing your guiding philosophy

By sharing your philosophy of preemptive dispute resolution, you're giving a clear sense of how you approach your work. It's not just about the results you've achieved, but about the thought and strategy behind those results. This can give a hiring manager a sense of how you might fit into their team and handle potential challenges.

Expressing enthusiasm for specific company initiatives

When you express your interest in IBM's initiatives in cloud computing and AI, you're demonstrating a deep understanding of the company's direction. This shows that you've done your research and that you're excited about contributing to these particular projects.

Reinforcing your value proposition

Asserting your confidence about the value you can bring to IBM's legal team helps reinforce your suitability for the role. Your assurance in your skills and passion for innovation can instill confidence in your potential employer about your readiness to contribute substantially to the team.

Intellectual Property Associate Cover Letter Example

Connect your background to the intellectual property associate role.

Linking your technical background and passion for innovation directly to the job's requirements makes a strong case for why you're the ideal candidate.

Showcase your patent application expertise

Detailing your experience in drafting and prosecuting patent applications provides concrete evidence of your capabilities and successes.

Emphasize your impact on client relations and outcomes

Highlighting how your skills have translated into valuable client insights and successful patent outcomes demonstrates your direct contribution to your current firm’s success.

Admire the firm's commitment to legal excellence

Expressing admiration for the firm’s reputation and services shows that you value high standards and are eager to contribute to maintaining those standards.

Invite further discussion on your fit for the team

Closing with a note of eagerness for a conversation about your alignment with the firm’s needs indicates you are proactive and ready to take on the challenges of the role.

Patent Litigation Associate Cover Letter Example

Show your enthusiasm for the patent litigation role.

Expressing excitement about joining the firm highlights your genuine interest and aligns your goals with theirs.

Detail your impact in patent cases

Sharing specific examples from your experience, like influencing a jury verdict, shows your direct contribution and capability in challenging situations.

Value the firm's approach to patent litigation

Recognizing and valuing the company's work approach demonstrates your compatibility with their culture and methodologies.

Connect your skills to the firm's needs

By relating your background and experiences to what the firm seeks, you make a strong case for how you can contribute meaningfully.

Invite further discussion

Closing with an invitation to discuss your application shows your eagerness to engage and your openness to explore how you can fit into their team.

Show your passion for patent litigation

When you say you are drawn to the firm because of your passion for technology and looking for new challenges, it makes a hiring manager see you as more than just an applicant. It shows you are someone who will bring energy and dedication to the role.

Highlight significant achievements

Mentioning a specific case where you played a critical role, especially one with a successful outcome and substantial damages awarded, clearly demonstrates your capability and experience. It tells us exactly what kind of impact you can have on our team.

Emphasize your fit for dynamic environments

By expressing how you thrive in fast-paced and intellectually challenging situations, you align yourself with the high-energy, problem-solving culture of top law firms. Your technical background in computer science as a leverage in complex technologies is a perfect fit for a patent litigation associate.

Express interest in specific firm areas

Your excitement about contributing to cutting-edge areas like artificial intelligence and blockchain directly speaks to your desire to be at the forefront of legal challenges. It shows you've done your homework about our firm's specialties and see yourself adding value there.

Invite further dialogue with confidence

Closing by expressing eagerness for a conversation about your qualifications is a strong call to action. It's polite yet confident, indicating that you believe there's a mutual fit worth exploring further.

Patent Agent Cover Letter Example

Show your early interest in patent law.

Talk about what drew you to this career path, making your passion evident from the start.

Display your skill in prior art searches

Highlight your ability to conduct thorough research and communicate technical ideas clearly, essential skills for a patent agent.

Share your excitement for the firm’s innovation

Express enthusiasm for the company’s approach to patent law, showing you're eager to contribute.

Emphasize your readiness to contribute

Convey confidence in your ability to make an immediate impact, showing you're prepared for the challenges of the role.

Encourage a deeper conversation about how you can fit into and enrich their team, showing openness and eagerness.

Senior Patent Agent Cover Letter Example

Convey your passion for the senior patent agent field.

Describing yourself as a "patent nerd" with relevant education and experience shows your dedication and enthusiasm for the field, making you a compelling candidate.

Illustrate your ability to simplify complex information

Detailing your success in making scientific concepts accessible in patent applications highlights your essential skills for the role.

Emphasize your collaborative and client-focused approach

Stressing the importance of teamwork and client satisfaction in your work ethic demonstrates your capability to contribute positively to the firm’s culture.

Match your expertise with the firm’s specialties

Showing that your background complements the firm’s focus areas makes you a strong match for the position.

Invite further discussion about your fit with the firm

Concluding with an open invitation to discuss your qualifications suggests confidence and a proactive attitude towards securing the position.

Alternative Introductions

If you're struggling to start your cover letter, here are 6 different variations that have worked for others, along with why they worked. Use them as inspiration for your introductory paragraph.

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Home » Blogs, News, Advice » Career Advice » 8 Cover Letter Tips and a Sample Cover Letter For Your Law Firm Internship

8 Cover Letter Tips and a Sample Cover Letter For Your Law Firm Internship

• Sep 14, 2012
• 25 Comments

The cover letter is a small email you write while applying to a law firm. It is really your pitch which says “Take me as an intern” Draft it carefully and do note the following points.

1. The body of the email should itself contain the cover letter . Don’t attach a 300 word cover letter because it won’t be opened in ten cases out of nine. Ten out of nine? It might seem an exaggeration or a misprint but it is none.

Instead of sending your cover letter as an attachment, write it in the body of the email itself.

2. Subject of the email which is the subject of your cover letter should be detailed and educated, a bit like this: Internship Application: 1 st May- 30 th June: Mumbai Office.

These are the three things (subject + duration + location) should make the subject of your internship cover letter; nothing more and nothing less.

3. Focus and customise. Don’t send an email to dozens of law firms at one go. Identify 5-6 law firms which interest you and send applications tailor-made for them.

For example if you are applying to an IP boutique law firm, include a section in your CV (right at the top, mind you) which reads ‘Achievements in the field of IP’. Also in your cover letter mention these achievements precisely.

4. Art of the start. Start with naming the person you want this to read; the recruitment head, the managing partner or the internship coordinator. Do your research.

Assuming the name of the person is Ram Kumar and the email id for internships is [email protected] and you start with “Respected Mr. Ram Kumar” you catch his attention.

If you begin with Respected Sir/Madam you don’t get anyone’s attention.

5. Write English . Please don’t show of your legal writing skills here. Write simple, plain, correct, readable English. Reserve legalese for later, when you actually get the internship.

Do a spelling and grammar check on Word on your cover letter.

6. Attach your CV. If you are not careful with this little thing (of attaching files), the law firm will be unwilling to hand you bigger things like internship.

7. Ask. Ask if you should be sending your writing samples or if the firm will want to take a telephonic interview. Leave your contact number in the footer.

8. A little quote. Emails can have a quote at the end. If it relates to law, is a smart one and is something you identify with, you can include it in every email you send including the internship application. This might be a little controversial but it can tell the recruiter a lot about you.

It adds a human touch and might bring a smile on the recruiters face. A smiling man/woman is a person more likely to give you the internship. So choose the quote carefully.

Here is a sample cover letter for a law firm internship:

Dear Mr. Ram Kumar

This section is: Art of start: Who you are, what you do and where are you going.

I am Rahul Sharma, a 4 th year law student from Gujarat National Law University (GNLU), Gandhinagar and am very keen to intern at ABC Law Offices (Delhi) from 1 st May- 30 th June.

This is called: Why Me. The Best Things I Have Done. Why Your Firm Alone is the Perfect Professional Habitat For Me.

I have previously interned at XYZ’s Delhi office where I was a part of the Capital Markets team. During my internship under Mr. Mukul Romani, senior counsel, Supreme Court of India I learnt the basics of legal drafting under his tutelage. I have also completed the Mergers and Acquisitions course offered by the Bombay Stock Exchange. Moreover, I was a part of the ANLU team (oralist) which won the NUKS corporate law moot competition in 2010.

I am sure interning at a prestigious law firm like SRGR Law Offices will help me further improve upon my skills. Given my prior experience and interest in corporate law I am sure that Ill be able to contribute immensely towards your practice. I have learnt from LegallyIndia.com about your firm’s growth plans and it will be exciting to be a part of a young and growing team of lawyers.

The Section: I am humble, eager and good.

I am attaching my CV for your kind perusal and will be grateful if I am given an opportunity to intern at your firm. Please let me know if you require anything else as a part of the internship application. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Yours sincerely,

Rahul Sharma

4 th year student, BA.LLB (Hons) course

GNLU, Gandhinagar.

Contact: 999999999 (M)

P.S. Just a bonus for you: I have found a nice resource with cover letter info – academichelp.net with a useful “how to write” guide and a lot of free samples [Sponsored].

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25 Responses

Hi Everyone, I’ve need your help! My friend is seeking for a job in Delhi NCR. He has 5 years experience as an Executive Secretary/Stenographer and currently working with Luthra & Luthra Law Offices and he is looking a job change. If you have any good opportunity for him please do let us know or you can directly reach him up 8510015604/[email protected] or inform me at *[email protected]* We will be thankful to you.

Hi Everyone, I’ve need your help! My friend is seeking for a job in Delhi NCR. He has 5 years experience as an Executive Secretary/Stenographer and currently working with Luthra & Luthra Law Offices and he is looking a job change. If you have any good opportunity for him please do let us know or you can directly reach him up 8510015604/[email protected] or inform me at *[email protected]* We will be thankful to you.

Excellent details once and for all, you simply attained a symbol brand new audience. Exactly . translation welsh to norwegianwhat can you suggest regarding your placed for you to developed a week in the past? Every confident?

I’m still learning from you, but I’m making my way to the top as well. I certainly liked reading all that is posted on your site.Keep the posts coming. I loved it!

for the first time I am seeing such a helpful site for the law students and professionals in a single platform, you are doing great job. Thank you so much admin.

can i get the sample of cover letter for applying for an internship under the supreme court advocate.

Can we address a cover letter to a firm directly without mentioning the name of any specific person?

” you didn’t find a cover letter more “crisp” than this?” I feel sorry for the firm who hired you with such lovely vocabulary.

Very well written cover letter format. Unfortunately many people who are unable to think for themselves don’t realise it is only for help to applicants and is not to be copied verbatim.

Some time back I noticed that applications for jobs/internships from people all over India to my law firm had same/similar sentences in it (because they all used this letter as a base). Now almost all the letters I receive for internship have about two to five sentences copied verbatim. Most popular sentences are “I learnt the basics of legal drafting under his tutelage”, “I am sure interning at a prestigious law firm like — will help me further improve upon my skills.”, “Given my prior experience and interest in corporate law I am sure that I’ll be able to contribute immensely towards your practice”.

Just by a brief look I can tell if the person has seen the sample letter on this site. Some bright persons also copy the line saying the applicant learnt about the firm’s growth plans from legallyindia.com, even though it never was discussed on that site. Some people also copy the line “it will be exciting to be a part of a young and growing team of lawyers” without knowing whether our team is young, old, middle-aged, growing or not etc.

Thanks for rectifying all of us and showing the path for own creativity which will definitely help us in the future. Sir but we do have a check on various websites like RSG consulting.com, legal500.com etc. before applying and after doing all this things we are upset due to very late replies from the respected law firms (Most of them need a continuous follow up and sum even don’t after that ) and many of them have a stringent norm of taking only National Law school Students(Strange.. its like “Grave injustice in the LAW Factory itself). However a reply of NO can surely help out all the students to shape their planned schedule. Hoping for Future Co-operation.

Anil, it would be nice for applicants if law firms replied to every application. But please understand that law firms are under no real obligation to do so, especially for unsolicited applications.

Another reason they don’t is because of the volume. Even small law firms get several applications a month and the medium-sized or bigger ones must be getting hundreds a month. It is just not practical to reply to everyone. If you send an application and you don’t get a reply, it means that either the firm does not have a vacancy for you or your application did not impress them. Keep trying!

Thank you very much Sir for your valuable comment …. it will help us a lot…

Thanks a lot for providing such useful tips 🙂 but will you pls let me know how to take follow up after sending cover letter and CV for targeted firms.

i would join internship from your NGO which is a very impotant for me from june to july 2015 iam student of law collage dehradun

The sample CV and sample Cover Letter are very useful to my students as who hail from rural area of Maharashtra. lawctopus is contributing immensely in bridging the gap between urban and rural students of law and indirectly contributing in upgrading the professional standards also. So keep up the great work.

This was really helpful. Doing changes in my cover letter. And thank you for telling cover letter’s are NOT to be attached but should be a body of the mail. what a fail i have been doing till now!

Well it’s not a rule as such.

But if you put it in the body of the email, chances of it being read are more.

Ideally how long should a Cover Letter be?

Around 200-250 words.

i have gone through various websites for getting a sample for internship letter but didn’t get a more crisp letter than this… great work!!! really hepled a lot!!!

Very helpful

sick dude helped

While applying for judicial clerkship under a HC judge. How different will the covering letter be from this?

Its very helpful. Kindly give the email id where i should mail my cv and other requirement for internship

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How to Write a Legal Cover Letter for Law Firms (that Gets you Noticed)

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Whether you’re just starting your legal journey or are an experienced legal professional seeking a new role, there’s no way around it: demand for legal positions is high, and the job outlook for lawyers in the US grows at a faster-than-average pace . Pair this industry growth with movement from lawyers already working in the industry (the 2022 Legal Trends Report found that in the 12 months before April 2022, nearly one in five lawyers left the law firm they were working for, and nine percent planned to leave their firm in the next six months), and it’s clear that many lawyers will find themselves needing to stand out in a competitive job market. 

However, despite the high demand for legal positions, people still need legal expertise—and law firms need capable legal professionals to fill open roles.

Whether you’re a law student, recent graduate, or experienced legal professional, this post will help you with your legal cover letter writing. We’ve started by providing sample cover letters for legal positions below and will then guide you through the essentials of writing a compelling cover letter for law firms. 

Legal cover letter examples

If you’re feeling overwhelmed when drafting a cover letter for law firms, don’t worry. Seeing a legal cover letter example can give you the confidence to write your own. Below, we’ve compiled some sample cover letters for legal positions, covering different backgrounds and levels of experience.

• Cover letter examples for summer associates and interns, Columbia Law School.  
• Cover letter examples for 1L – 3L students, Harvard Law School .
• Cover letter examples for 1L – 3L students, Yale Law School .
• Cover letter example for applying to an immigration law firm by a recent graduate with previous paralegal experience .
• Cover letter example for applying to a Big Law firm, Boston University. 
• Cover letter example for an IP lawyer with 11 years experience, Monster .
• Cover letter example for a litigation attorney with 12 years experience, My Perfect Resume .
• Cover letter examples for applying for private sector roles, Yale Law School .
• Cover letter example for seeking a summer judicial internship, University of Georgia School of Law .

Berkeley Law also provides an excellent guide for legal cover letters. 

You can start by using one of these examples as inspiration when structuring your cover letter and what you may want to highlight. You can also take insights from these sample cover letters for lawyers—insights you can apply to your own cover letter when following our tips below.

How to draft a cover letter for a law firm

It’s one thing to review examples of legal cover letters, but how to write one? By following the standard etiquette and structure—and then personalizing it—you can draft an effective cover letter. First, let’s review some legal cover letter best practices.

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Even after reviewing some legal cover letter examples, the dos and don’ts of legal cover letter writing aren’t always easy to spot. You may ask yourself: what should a legal cover letter include for a law firm? While the content of your cover letter will differ between employers, these points of etiquette should not.

• Don’t skip it. The first—and potentially most important—element of legal cover letter etiquette is just writing one. While job sites and hiring portals may state “Cover Letter Optional,” disregard this, it is always best to send a cover letter.
• Be concise. The hiring manager is likely receiving dozens, or maybe even hundreds, of cover letters a day. Respect an employer’s time by getting straight to the point. Long legal cover letters may also indicate an inability to achieve quick and succinct results.
• Match their tone. Write as if you’ve already been hired for the role. It’s subtle, but an employer will appreciate this personal touch.
• Prioritize the employer. Don’t include unnecessary details about your life that won’t impact how you’ll perform the job.
• Don’t recycle legal cover letters. Be original. It’s time-consuming work, but it’ll show your potential employer your dedication.
• Triple-check it. Spelling and grammatical errors should be avoided at all costs. Given the highly competitive nature of the legal job market, you don’t want to be passed up over a simple error.

Addressing cover letters for lawyers

To whom it may concern: Always take the time to find the correct contact. When writing cover letters for law firms, it’s a common misstep to dedicate so much time and attention to the body of the letter that you overlook the basics—like who and how you’re addressing the letter. 

Here are some best practices for addressing your legal cover letter:

• Know who you’re speaking to. Do your research and be specific. Address your cover letter to the person responsible for hiring at the firm you’re contacting, like the senior partner or hiring manager. If you don’t have this information, the law firm’s website might come in handy, or you can contact the law firm’s human resources department for guidance. 
• Be careful with salutations. The salutation is a place to convey respect and showcase that you’ve taken the time to personalize the letter. Mistakes in the salutation are a sign that you’ll miss details, which won’t bode well for your chances of impressing your potential employer. If you’re certain of the recipient’s preferred gender-identifying language, you can write the salutation as “Dear Ms.” or “Dear Mr.”; however, if you aren’t certain (and don’t make assumptions) or you don’t want to use gender-identifying language, drop the “Ms.” or “Mr.” and write out the person’s full first and last name.
• Double-check your spelling. People will always notice if you spell their name wrong, and there are multiple ways to spell even common names. Ensure you start on the right foot by getting the basics right.

Introductory paragraph

In your cover letter’s opening paragraph, you have two main goals:

• Introduce who you are.
• Explain why you’d be a good fit for this particular firm. 

In the first paragraph, include details about:

• Who you are. Are you currently a law student? Are you an associate at a law firm?
• Who you know. Mention any referrals or mutual acquaintances right away.
• Why you’d be a great fit for the firm. Include specific reasons—you’re looking for a way to create connections with the senior partner or hiring manager.

Main cover letter body

The body section of your cover letter is your chance to shine—and to concisely summarize exactly how you meet the requirements in the job description. 

In one or two paragraphs, give a high-level overview of your legal education and experience to show:

• Why you want to work for this firm. Elaborate on what makes you genuinely excited about the firm—whether it is an area of interest you’ve specialized in, the firm’s reputation or mission, or past experiences that will make you a uniquely good fit.
• Why this firm should hire you. Make clear connections between your qualifications and aspects of the role you’re applying for. If there is a job posting, look closely for key attributes that the firm is looking for, and then detail how you meet those expectations. 

Highlighting your qualifications

Above all else, ensure your legal cover letter highlights your skills. Relevant qualifications for a law firm cover letter include: 

• Past legal work experience or positions.
• Community service roles.
• Academic or research specializations.
• Publications.
• Relevant awards you’ve received.
• Your personal background.

For example, consider a job posting that describes their ideal candidate as someone with personal injury litigation experience, excellent communication skills, and who works well both independently and as a part of a team in a fast-paced office environment.

If you were applying for this role, your cover letter’s body paragraphs might detail your past personal injury litigation experience and specific examples of how you’ve successfully communicated within a team and in a fast-paced environment.

Remember: Be specific, but keep in mind that this is not the place to restate your resume —if you can grab the hiring manager’s attention here, they will read your resume for those details. Your cover letter is where you can entice the reader to move on to your resume by providing context and highlighting how your experience lines up with what’s needed for the role.

For tips on writing a standout lawyer resume, read our blog post here.

Concluding paragraph

Finally, your concluding paragraph is where you’ll succinctly wrap the cover letter up, close the loop, and leave a positive impression. In your closing paragraph, be sure to:

• Say thank you. Gratitude can make a difference, so always thank the reader for their consideration.
• Assert your next steps. It’s fine to clearly outline how and when you will follow up on your application, rather than waiting indefinitely for an answer. And, if you say that you’ll follow up at a specific time, be sure to do it—and hold yourself to your word.
• Provide relevant contact details. Let the reader know how to reach you by phone or email, if these details are not already outlined in your letter’s header.

Tips for using your legal cover letter to stand out

The legal industry is rapidly evolving, and job hunters need to set themselves apart to get hired (unless, of course, you decide to start your own law firm ). 

If you’re applying for a job as a lawyer, whether it’s a traditional position or a legal work-from-home job , here are five tips to make sure your cover letter lands at the top of the pile.

1. Make it personal

Perhaps the most important tip for writing cover letters for lawyers is to make it personal. 

Many of your competitors have similar education and professional experience, so being generic is a fast track to being forgotten. 

Use a personalized cover letter to showcase the unique reasons why you’re the best candidate. Show that you know the person you’re writing to, and highlight any connections. If that isn’t possible, you can always write about the firm to show that you’ve done your research. 

2. Prioritize the positive 

When writing a lawyer cover letter, focus on what you have to offer. Regardless of why you’re looking for a new job, you bring a unique mix of attributes to the table. Highlight these attributes, whether they’re your: 

• Other legal careers
• Relevant work experience 

If you’re a law student or recent graduate, you may not have a long legal career to highlight. However, you can still note strengths like technology skills that make you an asset.

To a hiring law firm, being tech-competent and familiar with certain cloud-based tools like Clio could be an advantage that sets you apart from other candidates.

For example, more and more law firms are adopting artificial intelligence (AI) tools to help them run their practices more efficiently, with the 2023 Legal Trends Report finding that nearly one in five legal professionals are using some form of AI in their practices already. With this in mind, lawyers up-to-date with AI technology may stand out for hiring law firms.  

3. Get to the point

Legal cover letters are not the place to be long-winded, and droning on will almost certainly have the opposite effect of what you’re going for. Keep cover letters for attorneys short, to the point, and persuasive—the trick is to be memorable and limit yourself to one page. Because you want to make a lasting impression on a single page, it’s also a good idea to check your cover letter’s sentence structure. Do you start all of your sentences the same way? Are they all the same length? Ensure there’s some variety so your reader stays engaged.

4. Set the right tone

Tone matters. While what you say in a cover letter for lawyers is obviously important, it also matters how you say it. 

No matter what type of legal job you’re applying for, you always want to convey a professional tone. However, depending on the law firm you’re applying to, using a personal tone may work to your advantage. Tailor your tone to match the law firm you’re applying to. 

If you’re writing a Big Law cover letter, for example, you’ll want to err on the side of being more formal. For a smaller local law firm? Check their website and match the tone to demonstrate your familiarity with their firm. 

5. Proofread

There is zero room for typos or grammatical errors in cover letters for lawyers. With so much competition for legal jobs, don’t give hiring managers a reason to eliminate you. Take the time to carefully proofread your cover letter yourself, and consider enlisting someone else to proofread your cover letters as well.

Final thoughts on how to write a legal cover letter for a law firm

In a crowded legal job market, there’s no better way to outshine the competition than an excellent legal cover letter. Ensure you’re putting your best foot forward with your future employer by: 

• Making it personal. At every step, customize your cover letter to the firm you’re applying to—from the tone to the specific skills you detail.
• Keeping it brief. Cover letters for lawyers are a one-page summary to let the hiring manager know that you’re a candidate they should talk to further. You want to give them enough information to draw them in, but not overwhelm them and risk losing interest.
• Showcasing your strengths. Focus on the positives, and don’t be afraid to highlight how your past experiences make you uniquely qualified.

While finding a new legal job in a competitive market isn’t exactly easy, staying resilient and adaptive will lead you to success. By crafting a great cover letter, you’re more likely to be noticed in this—and any—job market. 

And, no matter what job you’re applying for, knowing technology can help set you apart—both when job hunting and once you’re working at your new firm. If you’re a law student and want a head start, you may be able to get free Clio access via Clio’s Academic Access Program (CAAP) at your law school. Learn more about CAAP here .

Do law firms read cover letters?

In a competitive job market, hiring managers at law firms read cover letters to help determine which candidates may be the best fit. A well-written legal cover letter can entice the reader to review your resume—and, hopefully, invite you for an interview—by showcasing how your experience and skills align with the role. 

We published this blog post in June 2020. Last updated: June 13, 2024 .

Categorized in: Business

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Cover Letter Advice & Samples

Cover letter advice and samples.

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• Draft your cover letter knowing it is your first writing sample.
• Understand that a cover letter should persuade the reader.
• Use the cover letter to “connect the dots” of your experiences.
• Resist the temptation to restate your resume.
• Keep your cover letter to one page.
• Use the font style and point size that match your resume.
• Remember that the reader is busy: less is more.
• Ensure your cover letter is error free.

Cover Letter Construction

Address block and salutation.

• Address the cover letter to an actual person.
• Research websites or call employer to determine recipient’s name.
• If you cannot find the name of a hiring contact, address your letter to the head of the unit, department, or office.
• While this is the least-preferred option, you may address your letter to “Dear Hiring Committee” if you cannot locate the name of an actual person.
• For firms, address your letter to the recruiting director. For larger firms, contact information for recruiting directors is available at www.nalpdirectory.com in the Basic Information section.
• In the salutation, include the recipient’s title and last name (e.g., “Dear Ms. Raintree”) or write the recipient’s entire name (e.g., “Dear Jamie Morales”).

Paragraph One

• Tell the employer who you are and what you are seeking.
• Highlight (past, present, and future) geographic connections.
• Indicate if you have talked to students/faculty/friends/alumni who speak highly of the organization.

Paragraph Two

• Show that you understand the employer’s mission/practice, the work its attorneys do, and the clients it serves.
• Demonstrate your proven interest in and connection to that mission/practice, work, and clients.

Paragraph Three

• Describe skills you will contribute to support that mission/practice, work, and clients.
• Provide evidence from your experiences and coursework.

Paragraph Four

• List the documents included with the letter.
• Tell the employer how to get in touch with you by email, telephone, and mail.
• Convey your availability for a conversation, mentioning upcoming trips to the area.
• Thank the employer for considering you.
• Mention availability of Yale summer funding, if applicable.
• Optional: Promise that you will follow up in a few weeks if you think the employer would appreciate the diligence.

Sample Cover Letters (PDF)

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How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship? (+5 Real Internship Cover Letter Examples)

• Júlia Mlčúchova , 
• Updated March 20, 2024 8 min read

Trying to figure out how to write a cover letter for an internship ? Look no further!

POV: After weeks and weeks of searching for the right internship opportunity, you've finally found it. But, at the end of the posting, there's a single short sentence that takes you aback:  “Please, attach a cover letter to your application .”

Although some consider cover letter writing to be a relic of the past, it still holds its rightful place in the professional world. 

Because a well-written and persuasive cover letter can sometimes make up for the lack of work experience on your resume . And if you're trying to apply for an internship , this is probably your case, too. 

So, continue reading this article and learn: 

• What is a cover letter for an internship;
• Whether you need to attach a cover letter to your internship application;
• How to write one in 7 steps;
• 5 real-life internship cover letter examples .

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

What is a cover letter for an internship?

Do you need a cover letter for an internship, how to write a cover letter for an internship in 7 steps, 5 real-life internship cover letter examples, key takeaways: how to write a cover letter for an internship.

Generally speaking, an internship cover letter is a formal document that accompanies your resume when applying for an internship. 

When it comes to its content, a cover letter for an internship falls somewhere between a traditional cover letter and a motivational letter . 

• A traditional cover letter , used by job applicants with years of experience, is supposed to underline some of the candidate's most relevant and impressive skills, qualifications, and work achievements . 
• A motivational letter , used mostly in academia, aims to communicate one's passion for the subject, their motivation, and personal goals . 

Hence, a cover letter for an internship combines the purpose of the traditional cover letter (convincing the recruiters that you're the right person for the job) with the tone and strategy of the motivational letter (writing about personal motivations and goals).

A truly successful internship cover letter should answer the following questions:

• Who are you? 
• Why are you interested in this particular internship?
• Why are you the best fit for this internship?
• What do you want to gain from this internship?

Absolutely! 

In fact, you should always attach a cover letter to your internship application , even if it isn't explicitly required from you.  

Why, you ask? 

Well, consider this: Internships are crucial stepping stones towards your dream career. And they're also incredibly competitive. A single internship opening can be answered by tens of applicants at a time. 

But how can you stand out from a crowd of equally inexperienced candidates? Certainly not by your non-existent professional accomplishments, right? 

When companies look for interns, they don't expect you to have a ton of real-life experience. They aren't looking for a “finished product,” but for someone with a genuine desire to learn and enthusiasm for the job. 

And these two are your weapons of choice!

How can a cover letter for an internship help you?

Apart from the reasons mentioned above, your internship cover letter is also responsible for: 

• Conveying first impression. Usually, recruiters will read your cover letter before looking at your resume. So, it's the perfect opportunity to introduce yourself to them in a memorable way. 
• Showing your efforts. Next, taking the time to craft a thoughtful cover letter shows that you're willing to put in that extra effort to stand out from the rest of the candidates. 
• Highlighting your communication skills. Also, a well-written cover letter demonstrates your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly and professionally. 
• Showing your professionalism. When you walk into a room, it's polite to introduce yourself and shake everybody's hand. This is exactly what a cover letter does! To attach one to your application is a common courtesy.

Now that you're familiar with the whats and whys , let's have a look at how to write a good cover letter for an internship step-by-step. 

For example : Application for [name of the internship] internship – Surname.

Then, place your contact information (your name; professional email address; phone number; link to your website / portfolio / social media accounts if relevant) directly into the header .

If you know the recipient's name, address them by “ Dear [full name] ,” or “ Dear Mrs/Mr [last name] ,”. If you don't know who to address the cover letter to , address it more generally to “Dear Hiring Manager,” .

In the first paragraph of your cover letter , start by stating your name and where you studied (including your current degree and year of study). Proceed by explaining how you came to know about the internship and what are your motivations for applying to it.

Since you don't have much work experience, you can talk about your academic achievements; relevant coursework; dissertation project; extracurricular activities; volunteering; membership in relevant societies, etc.

The closing paragraph of your cover letter should reiterate your desire to get the specific internship, express gratitude to the recipient for their time and consideration, and include a final call for action (i.e. "I look forward to discussing the next steps during an interview." )

Finally, based on how you greeted the recipient of your cover letter, you can sign off with either “ Yours sincerely ,” or “ Yours faithfully ,” . If you addressed the recruiter by their name, sign off with the former; if not, use the latter.

Don't feel like writing your internship cover letter by hand?

Let our AI cover letter writer create the first draft of your internship cover letter!

Undoubtedly, the best way to learn something is to look at specific examples . And that's exactly what we're going to do right now! 

Below, we've prepared 5 internship cover letters written by real people with the help of our cover letter templates .

And, each of them is accompanied by our internship cover letter writing tips that you can implement into your own cover letter! 

FYI, you can use each of these examples as the first draft for your very own internship cover letter – simply click on the red button and start personalising the text (or let AI handle it).

#1 Philips Marketing Intern Cover Letter Sample

Internship cover letter example:.

This cover letter sample was provided by a real person who got hired with Kickresume’s help.

What can you take away?

• Eye-catching header.  Firstly, the header is visually clearly separated from the rest of the text. This makes the recruiters notice it immediately. Plus, the contact information of the company is also featured in the left-hand corner - just like it would be on an actual letter.
• Research the company before applying. Notice sentences like: “ I really like and relate to what Philips stands for … ” and “ Furthermore, it is very appealing that Philips operates on an international level… ”.This shows that the candidate’s done a thorough research of the company's philosophy and structure.

#2 Warner Bros. Public Relations Intern Cover Letter Example

• Share a personal story. This can help you establish a sentimental connection between you and the company. Show them that for you, working for their company means more than any old internship.
• Name-drop a referral. Now, this is a little bit of a cheat code. But, if you happen to know about anyone who has worked/currently works for the company, slip their name into your cover letter.

#3 University of Massachusetts Boston Intern Cover Letter Example

What can you take away  .

• Write about what you want to gain from the internship. It shows that you're not there just to have something to put on your resume; but that you’re motivated by the idea of gaining actual industry knowledge and skills.

#4 Audit/Tax Summer Internship at CohnReznick Cover Letter Sample

• Mention any relevant academic activities. If you're wondering how to write a cover letter for an internship with no experience whatsoever, this is your way to go! For example, notice how this candidate noted all of his relevant courses, skills, association membership, and competition participation.
• Focus on transferrable skills. Especially when your study programme doesn't necessarily fit the internship opening to a T. Instead, focus on any transferable skills you've picked up. 

#5 Intern at NBC Cover Letter Sample

• Keep your opening and closing paragraphs short and sweet. As you can see in this example, it helps keep a certain visual harmony of the overall document. And, despite the length, both paragraphs do exactly what they're supposed to. Besides, recruiters might be discouraged to read the rest of your cover letter if your introductory paragraph is too long.

To sum it all up, an internship cover letter is a formal document that you submit together with your resume when applying for an internship. Its content should be something between a traditional cover letter and a motivational letter.

Its purpose is to introduce yourself to the recruiters in a more personal way than the resume allows. 

The main things you want your internship cover letter to communicate are:

• who you are,
• why you're interested in this opportunity,
• what make you the best fit for the internship, 
• your motivation (your long-term professional goals),
• your desire to learn (what you want to gain from the experience).

To write a truly impactful and persuasive cover letter, we recommend following these 7 key steps: 

• Specify which internship you're applying for in the subject line.
• Include your contact information in a header.
• Address the recipient appropriately.
• Introduce yourself & your motivations in the opening paragraph.
• Elaborate on why you're a good fit and what motivated you in body.
• End your cover letter with a confident closing paragraph.
• Finish off with a polite sign off. 

Finally, if you feel that the examples provided in this article aren't enough, you can always find more in our cover letter database . 

Julia has recently joined Kickresume as a career writer. From helping people with their English to get admitted to the uni of their dreams to advising them on how to succeed in the job market. It would seem that her career is on a steadfast trajectory. Julia holds a degree in Anglophone studies from Metropolitan University in Prague, where she also resides. Apart from creative writing and languages, she takes a keen interest in literature and theatre.

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How to draft an effective cover letter

In this article, Anmol Singla of RGNUL discusses how to design a cover letter which helps you grabbing the best internships.

Internships are an essential part of a law student’s life. Their importance has been explained by Shrey Lodha in this article .

A Cover Letter is a basic requirement at the time of applying for an internship. Cover letters are one page documents that you send with your resume or CV when applying for a job or an internship. It is an important document which is used for the purposes listed below.

• Introduce yourself to the hiring manager
• Describe your skill set in context of the position you are applying for
• Fill in places your resume cannot describe
• Further explain other aspects of your resume

By hitting those 4 aspects, your letter can be a convincing and powerful companion to a well written resume or CV. It is looked at and examined carefully. A well written cover letter could be the difference between being able to grab an opportunity or allowing it to slip right past you.

How to write a cover letter

• Contact Information : The header of every professional cover letter for a job application should include the following:
• Your telephone number
• Your email address
• The name of the hiring manager and their professional title
• The name and address of the company to which you’re applying for

Optionally, you can add:

• Your professional title
• Your home address
• Links to your professional websites
• Your social media accounts (only LinkedIn and Twitter)
• Your city of residence
• Introduction : The first paragraph holds the key. This is your chance to grab the recruiters attention and stand out from the crowd. It should not consist of usual phrases like Dear Sir/Madam or to whom it may concern. It should focus on conveying the position or role you are looking for and how you came to know about this opportunity. It should also comprise of some basic information about yourself like the course you are pursuing, areas of expertise and interest, career goals and how they align with the vision of the place you are applying for.
• Advertise your skills : the second paragraph should correspond directly to how you are a perfect fit for the company. It has to be based upon the requirements of the place you are applying for. It is important to know about the company and its objectives. Words and phrases from the requirements of the place can be included in cover letters. You have to convince the hiring manager about how you fit into the company and make your contribution to help the company achieve its objectives. It has to focus upon the specific skill-set possessed by you that helps the company.
• Conclusion : This is referred to as the Call to Action paragraph. It focuses upon asking for a follow-up. You have to pose questions like:
• Can we discuss how I can help?
• I have attached my resume along. When can I expect a call for an interview?

You should end the cover letter by using a proper sign off. S ample cover letter sign-offs:

• Best regards,
• Kind regards,
• With best regards.

Some of the major places that law students intern at, during their university studies and what to keep in mind while drafting a cover letter for them is discussed below.

• Explain what stage are you at in your career.
• Include the location you want to intern at and how you came to know about the firm.
• Why do you want to work at the law firm? This should convey your interest about working in the specific field practised by the organization. You must include any activities (like workshops, courses, etc.) that serve as a proof of your interest.
• What makes you suitable for the law firm? Include your skills like communication, drafting, knowledge of law, etc. that will be useful to the organization. Back the skills by stating your achievements.
• End the letter by referring the recruiter to your CV and stating your availability for any interview or assessment that may follow.
• Why you want to intern with the lawyer or judge? Explain how you came to know about them and why do you want to do it.
• Do some background research on the person and cite any incident which you could relate to.
• Emphasise the skills you possess that would aid the lawyer.
• Show your eagerness to learn and acquire knowledge

Legal Research Intern

• Demonstrate sensitivity towards the issues they focus upon and tell about any related event you have attended
• Cite your specific skills. Give references to any research you have already done.
• Demonstrate writing skills. Tell about any competitions like Essays, Moot memos, Judgement Writings, etc.
• Address the selection criteria. Look up the requirements of the organization and address them.
• Highlight any community and volunteer work.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the work
• Show awareness about the challenges

Public Sector Units

• Show awareness about the work they do.
• Explain why you want this opportunity and how did you come to know about it.
• Be aware of the role of a legal intern and demonstrate the skill-set you possess

Some common cover letter mistakes are stated below

• Giving too much emphasis on your personal skills such as Music, Book Reading etc.
• Sharing irrelevant details.
• Highlighting your insecurities instead of talents
• Explaining just your resume
• Not backing up claims by examples
• Writing a lengthy letter
• TYPOS and GRAMMATICAL ERRORS (CARDINAL SINS)

Keeping the above format in mind and the specific instructions for every place draft a cover letter comprising of all the required details and make it presentable. Make sure you don’t make any of the mistakes listed above. Follow this, be confident, and secure your dream internship.

How to ace your internships

To be successful in securing and excelling in a corporate internship, you need to plan and prepare well ahead. We observed the process and journey of securing a corporate law internship and converting one into a job offer for hundreds of law students and then identified the elements that worked and that didn’t work. This program is developed to enable you to acquire those skills before you even walk into a corporate internship. You will be able to build yourself into a person whom a law firm seeks out.

This course is designed to enable law students to tackle two major challenges: secure corporate internships (at corporate law firms or companies) and perform extraordinarily well so that you can get a job offer. Typical ways are securing a PPO (pre-placement offer), a job interview or a call back for a subsequent internship (with a sense that it may convert into a job offer).

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Legal Internship Cover Letter No Experience

Working in a law firm can be a great experience, especially if you are just starting your career.

As a legal intern, you will be learning a lot, while assisting an attorney, or a unit of attorneys.

Before you can actually work as one, you have to write a legal internship cover letter.

In order to write an attractive cover letter for a legal internship, you must make sure that you focus on your skills and knowledge.

A cover letter sample for a legal intern, with no previous experience in hand, is provided here for your reference:

Sample Legal Internship Cover Letter With No Experience

Vera Pattinson (000) 377-8384 [email protected]

September 1, 2022

Mr. Tag Johnson Human Resources Manager Truce and Trent Associates 904 Friday Road Hilton Head Island, SC 73104

Dear Mr. Johnson:

I am highly interested in obtaining a Legal Internship at Truce and Trent Associates. Currently, I am pursuing my bachelor’s degree in law from the University of South Carolina and possess exposure to the legal arena.

Keeping cases organized by ensuring that they are properly filed is my niche. Since I am an insightful individual, it is easy for me to handle research work, and create corresponding reports and information packs. Developing cases by maintaining contact with witnesses, victims, and suspects is also an area in that I excel. Additionally, I am well-versed in keeping clients informed by maintaining uninterrupted communication with them.

In a legal intern role, you will find me to be adept at client relationships, legal administration, and reporting. I firmly believe that I am a great contender for this position, as I have some volunteer work experience in an attorney’s office.

It would be mutually beneficial to meet in person so that I can further elaborate on my skills and your expectations from your next legal intern. I am available at (000) 377-8384 if you need to reach me.

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

Vera Pattinson

(000) 377-8384

• Sample Letter of Recommendation for Legal Intern
• Legal Intern Cover Letter Sample [Updated 2022]
• Entry-Level Legal Assistant Resume With No Experience
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Why intern with WIPO?

Meet our interns, who are we looking for.

• Am I eligible?
• How can I apply?

Related links

Internships at wipo, developing potential and access to career opportunities.

Interning at WIPO is a unique chance to gain invaluable experience at the forefront of innovation and creativity. Our interns can be found across the Organization collaborating on interesting and challenging activities.

Apply for an internship

Innovative and creative projects

Multicultural experience

Build networks 

Monthly stipend

Medical insurance

(Illustrations: Getty Images/phototechno)

"After one year as an intern, I was offered a contract in the Project Management Office. I am pleased to have had my hard work recognized and to now be able to apply my knowledge and skills at a new level."

Meet more of our interns

"The WIPO internship has exposed me to the workings of international financial markets. I have gained knowledge of risk management strategies and the complexities of handling large international transactions within WIPO’s different portfolios."

"Working at this United Nations specialized agency has been an invaluable experience. I was able to work on multiple high-level communication projects in a multicultural environment."

"From day one I've been involved in the case management undertaken by the AMC. Not only that, but I’ve benefitted from the guidance and support of a dynamic group of outstanding professionals."

"The WIPO Office in the Russian Federation is still rather new, so it was a unique challenge for me to participate in the burgeoning development of cooperation between Russia and WIPO."

"Dealing with multiple stakeholders on large-scale projects has allowed me to network, meet interesting people, and gain valued experience whilst also satisfying my professional interests."

"Interning with WIPO’s Global Challenges Division has helped me to gain a new perspective on addressing complex global health and climate change issues, with intellectual property as a starting point."

We're interested in talented people from a wide range of backgrounds. Some of the key backgrounds we're looking for include:

• Economics/statistics
• Information Technology (IT)
• Technical cooperation
• Project management
• Administration (finance, human resources, procurement, program planning)
• Translation
• Marketing/communications

Where do interns work?

• PCT System (patents)
• Madrid Registry (trademarks)
• Administration and Management Sector
• Arbitration and Mediation Center

Are you eligible?

To be eligible to apply for a WIPO internship, you must be enrolled in a first-level or advanced university degree or have completed a degree within the past two years. Students enrolled in a first-level university degree must be in their 3rd or 4th year or in a program that requires the completion of an internship as part of the degree requirements.

You must also have a very good knowledge of English and/or French.

We welcome applicants of diverse geographical backgrounds and of all genders.

• Students or holders of a first-level degree and students pursuing an advanced degree
• 1,645 Swiss francs monthly stipend, including a local transportation allowance of 70 Swiss francs (at WIPO Headquarters)
• 2-6 months in duration

Category II

• Holders of an advanced degree or graduate students having completed their coursework, but not the thesis
• 2,170 Swiss francs monthly stipend, including a local transportation allowance of 70 Swiss francs (at WIPO Headquarters)
• 2-12 months in duration

Highlight! Reimbursement of travel expenses (roundtrip) up to 1,500 Swiss francs for interns who are nationals of developing, least developed or transition countries, and who are residing in their home country at the time of recruitment.

How does the application process work?

To apply for an internship, you must submit your candidature through the Internship Roster , which is advertised year-round. We review the Roster regularly and consider profiles for specific internship opportunities. If your application is a good match for an opportunity, we will contact you directly. 

Create a profile

Submit your application, wait to be contacted.

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How to Write a Successful Internship Cover Letter

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How to Write a Successful Internship Cover Letter was originally published on Symba .

Internship applications normally ask for cover letters describing why you want the job and how you’re qualified. If you’re new to the workforce, writing a cover letter for a job application can be intimidating. Here are some tips and examples on how to write an internship cover letter. Why Are Cover Letters Important?

Besides the resume, cover letters are your first impression to an organization. A cover letter weaves together the different elements on your resume to create a cohesive story for your potential employer. By reading your cover letter, the hiring manager should understand your background, specific aspects of your background that qualify you for the internship, why you want that internship in particular, and how you’re different from other applicants. It’s important to carve out sufficient time to craft a well-written cover letter to make a good impression and help get your foot in the door for an interview.

Tips for Writing Successful Internship Cover Letters

1. KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid). Most cover letters should not be essays. Limit your letter to one page maximum. The hiring manager has their full-time job and is probably wading through multiple applications. They will not only appreciate your ability to say a lot with little, but will probably not read anything past one page. There may be special circumstances where you might have to write more than one page but that is the exception not the rule.

2. Personalize. It’s important to personalize your cover letters. Match your specific skills with the job description. Some employers may even ask for non-traditional cover letters. Personalizing will show that you read the job description and care enough about the job and application. You should also try to personalize your letter to a specific person. If you can find the name of your hiring manager, direct the cover letter to them.

3. Talk about what you can do for the organization, not what the organization can do for you. The hiring manager does not need to read about how this internship is your dream job and can transform your life. They want to know what your unique experiences in life can bring to the table and how you can help the organization.

4. If you don’t have previous work experience, write about your academics and any extracurriculars. Many intern managers understand that not every applicant will have previous work experience or work experience that’s directly related to the position. However, you’ve probably taken related academic classwork or maybe done extracurriculars that demonstrate your work ethic, leadership, and other relevant skills that are important for an intern.

5. Proofread. For many hiring managers, typos are a huge red flag. Lack of attention in a job application can signal potential lack of attention on the job. It is important to make sure both your cover letter and your resume are spot-free . Use spell check and read over your letter several times.

6. Ask others to review. Looking at the same thing over again can make it easy to miss mistakes. Have another person read your cover letter. It may also spark additional ideas that you can include in the letter.

Sample Cover Letters

Here are some examples of cover letters Team Symba has written that have gotten us into internships. Companies are anonymized.

Dear Hiring Manager at Company ABC:

I’m Ellen Zhang, a senior studying Marketing and Information Systems at Boston College. I’ve explored many career options from practicing law to playwriting, but I have never changed my desire to help others tell their stories. Marketing initially appealed to me because it involves telling the stories of products and brands to inspire consumer intention. When I took Consumer Behavior, I loved learning how both conscious and subconscious perceptions result in different buyer responses and it solidified my desire to pursue a career in marketing.

During my freshman year at BC, I planned a flash mob. Over the month that we marketed our event, we had grown to over 600 interested attendees on our Facebook event page and had the support of Boston radio station Kiss 108’s street team. We performed the 300-person flash mob successfully and made it to the local news channel. Our flash mob has also accumulated hundreds of thousands of views on YouTube. Besides honing my organizational skills, I learned the importance of an adaptable leadership style, of appropriately delegating tasks to team members, and of a constant line of effective communication. This flash mob also piqued my interest in inbound marketing since all our marketing efforts were through social media. I find it amazing how powerful and cost-efficient social media marketing can be, so subsequently, I took a class on Social Media for Managers, where we acquainted ourselves with the rapidly evolving world of social marketing. A little less than a year after the flash mob, I started my first internship at a boutique sports agency and worked with the marketing director. When I was tasked with making the new logo for the 2013 Vince Wilfork Foundation (VWF) Draft Night Fundraiser, I had my first professional taste of graphic design. It was very satisfying seeing my logo design on every event collateral, especially when the logo was sent out on gift bag invites to the Patriot players. My interest in marketing aesthetics and branding grew as I helped to build the image of the VWF and tell their story through visual media. During my next internship at the Computer Clubhouse, I was also tasked with helping build their brand image through web design and social media, and as an occasional mentor to the kids, I helped them shape and develop their own creative identities so they could tell their own stories.

Though I do love graphic design and am constantly practicing my skills, I would also love to be more involved with the strategy behind digital marketing and branding as well as work with analytics, which my market research class introduced me to. I hope that during an internship and my future career, my ideas and my work can inspire people, and I find it so rewarding that the stories that I can tell through brands and products can breathe life into intangible ideas and infuse character into inanimate objects. I believe that my previous work experience at my both my internships and my research position, my diverse marketing and IS coursework, and my love of story-telling make me a good fit as an intern for Company ABC. Thank you very much for your time and consideration!

Sincerely, Ellen Zhang

DEPARTMENT COMPANY ABC ADDRESS

Dear HIRING MANAGER at COMPANY ABC,

I’m writing to share my sincere interest in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Internship Position. My name is Ahva Sadeghi, and I am Master’s student in Human Rights at the London School of Economics and Political Science. I recently graduated in May 2015 with my Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Political Science, Economics and Law from the University of Arizona Honors College as the Outstanding Senior. In 2013, I studied International Relations at Georgetown University. Throughout my studies, I have visited the MENA Programme site numerous times to study policy research on the region, and I am sincerely thrilled to have the opportunity to apply.

My personal academic interests are heavily vested in the Middle East. I am presently writing my Master’s dissertation on economic sanctions and human rights with a concentration on the Middle East. In my undergraduate studies, I wrote my Honors Thesis on women’s rights, political resistance and government policies on veiling in Iran. As an Iranian American, I have strong cultural and familial ties to the region, which prompts my passion, curiosity and research in international affairs and the Middle East.

My individual academic appeal to the Middle East is coupled with professional research positions on the region. Last year, I contributed to the 2014-2015 Human Rights Report on the Middle East as a Human Rights Research intern with the U.S. Department of State. I researched human rights violations, government affairs and policies concerning my delegated countries (Iran, Iraq, Qatar, and Syria), utilizing my Persian and Arabic language skills to access various forms of media. In 2014, I conducted research and data collection to contribute to the 2013 Trafficking in Persons Report as an intern with the Office to Combat and Monitor Trafficking in Persons with the U.S. Department of State. During my undergraduate studies, I was the Middle East Correspondent for my university’s international current events journal, and I founded my university’s international human rights awareness student organization. Throughout these positions, I have sincerely enjoyed learning and developing my understanding of the region.

It would be a privilege to continue my research on the Middle East with the MENA Programme at COMPANY ABC. The work produced by the MENA Programme has had a strong impact on my studies and understanding of the region, and I would be humbled to participate in the MENA Programme’s activities. Please feel free contact me via phone or email with any further questions. I look forward to discussing my application with you soon.

Yours Sincerely,

Ahva Sadeghi PHONE NUMBER EMAIL

Every cover letter should be unique to the job application and tell a story of where you’re from, how your skills and experiences complement the job requirements, and where you want to go. For additional help on crafting a cover letter, UC Davis has a great internship cover letter starter kit with a content worksheet to help you write.

The post How to Write a Successful Internship Cover Letter appeared first on Symba .