student leader cover letter

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Study Team Leader Cover Letter Sample

Polish your cover letter with this Study Team Leader cover letter sample. This exact cover letter helped one of Kickresume's customers land a job at The University of Toronto. That customer let us share their cover letter with you. Use this cover letter example for free or try to redesign it using our easy-to-use cover letter maker.

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Write an eye-catching resume as a university student

Study Team Leader Cover Letter Sample (Full Text Version)

Sandy McLarker

I would love to apply for the position of Peer Study Team Leader for SOC100/150. I am very excited about this position, and I think that I would be a great fit for it. In my first year at the University of Toronto I won the Max Weber award for my grade in SOC101, and would love to help others find the same success.

It might sound nerdy, but there is nothing more rewarding to me than helping other people succeed. I have always had a real love for learning, and I feel most fulfilled when I get to share my love with others. This passion has guided me to leadership roles throughout my life. In high school, I made my money tutoring students in debate. I have since pursued training roles at all of my jobs, volunteered as a mentor with Ideas for the World, and have been a successful independent tutor. I was even recently promoted at my current job to the position of RES Analyst. In that role, I take statistics about our store performance, and use it to create training plans and develop the skills of people on my team. I would bring genuine excitement to my role as study-group leader, and would be willing to work really hard to help my group.

First year can be really hard, something I learned when I moved across country to come to U of T. Over the last three years, I have learned a lot of lessons about how to make it easier. I know how to balance learning to live on your own, with finding academic success, and having a fulfilling extra-curricular life. My experiences have taught me many strategies about how to transition into university. More importantly, they have allowed me to develop patience, determination and enthusiasm, three things that are really crucial when helping first year students. I would love to use my experiences to help other students have a better year.

As a final note, my schedule is quite flexible this year, meaning I could be available whenever needed. I am taking some time away from my job to focus on my extra-curricular opportunities, and this role would be more than compatible with those responsibilities.

Thanks for your consideration,

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Similar job positions

Project Manager Formal Sciences Student High School Student University Student Executive Manager Professions And Applied Sciences Student Risk Manager Student Internship Social Sciences Student Product Manager Natural Sciences Student Strategic Manager

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How to Write an Effective Leadership Position Cover Letter and Resume

An outstanding cover letter and resume can be your ticket to landing a senior role regardless of your industry. Writing a great cover letter and resume is no easy feat, especially if this is your first time applying for a senior role. But fear not: this guide will teach you what you need to know to craft a winning application. 

Below is a step-by-step guide on how to write an effective leadership position cover letter and resume. We also show you samples of leadership position cover letters and resumes as well as templates you can use for guidance.

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Leadership position cover letter guide.

To become a team leader, you have to acquire soft skills not taught in a typical classroom. A leadership position cover letter helps you communicate these skills, as well as the experiences and qualifications that contribute to your candidacy, to a potential employer.

Why Does Your Leadership Position Cover Letter Matter? 

Your cover letter matters because it is the first point of contact with a potential employer. Before you meet anyone for an interview, you’ll have to spark their interest with a cover letter. Seeking a leadership position can be an uphill battle if you don’t already have management experience. However, a smart cover letter can help shore up any experience gaps.

Expertly crafted cover letters turn into interviews. A winning cover letter can help you get your foot in the door even if you don’t have previous leadership experience. The best cover letters strike a professional tone and are relevant to the role that the candidate is applying for.  

Essential Components of Your Leadership Position Cover Letter

To craft a strong cover letter, you need to start with the basics and add personal touches later. Here are the essential components to include in your cover letter.

• Your contact information. A well-written cover letter will have your contact information displayed clearly at the top of the page.
• Employer’s contact information. Adding this information is not compulsory, but it gives your letter a more professional look.
• Salutation. You should always address your letter to a specific individual. You can usually find who to address the letter to in the job description. If that information is not there, go to the company’s website and search for the name of the hiring manager.
• Body. A typical cover letter should have at least two or three paragraphs. Strive to capture the reader’s attention right from the beginning with a strong introduction. Next, highlight your most relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments. The body of your cover letter should not be cluttered or overwritten. Be brief and professional.
• Closing. When closing, try to add some incentive for the employer to reach out to you. Reiterate how passionate you are about the role or write about a unique trait that you feel sets you apart from your competitors. 
• Complimentary close and signature. Every letter should end with a closing salutation such as “Sincerely” or “Yours truly” followed by your name. 

5 Tips for Writing a Strong Leadership Position Cover Letter

Whether you are applying for a biomedical research firm or an apparel company, you want to create an amazing cover letter to help you come across as the ideal candidate. Here are tips that will help you secure that great opportunity you’ve been waiting for.

• Be brief. The company you are applying to will receive plenty of other applications just like yours and the hiring manager simply doesn’t have the time to go through long cover letters. Drive your point home in three to four tight paragraphs and you’ll stand a better chance of being called for an interview.
• Link up your experience with the job requirements. Whether you want to be a project manager or a senior application software engineer, you need to show the recruiter you are the perfect candidate for the position. Start by connecting your past accomplishments and leadership experience with the job requirements.
• Be authentic. When crafting a cover letter, you must keep your audience in mind. Put yourself in their shoes and evaluate how interesting and original your piece sounds. To make it more engaging, describe unique career endeavors that have taught you leadership skills and mention your career goals. 
• Show some courtesy. Conclude your cover letter by thanking the employer for their time and consideration and asking them to contact you at their earliest convenience.
• Edit and proofread. Before sending your cover letter, give it a good edit to bolster sections that may not be as engaging or relevant. Also, ensure you don’t have typos or grammatical errors. 

Leadership Position Cover Letter Example

Writing a cover letter that will catch the hiring manager’s attention is not easy. To provide some guidance, we have included an example of a cover letter for a leadership position that uses all the tips we discussed above.

Leadership Position Cover Letter Sample

Kelly Dale 1 Harvest Don Trail Ricken Heights, VN, 44060 [email protected] 111-234-2356

Jax Duke Hiring Manager ABC Systems Ricken Heights, VN, 44060 111-354-8975 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Duke,

I understand that ABC Systems is looking for a talented operating systems programming manager. I am excited to apply for this position since I’m an ambitious leader passionate about nurturing novice and intermediate professionals in the tech field. I’m dedicated to accomplishing goals at every company I work for and adding value to my team. 

Over the past four years, I have led programming teams in procedural changes. I collaborated with executives and directors to develop policies and procedures for deploying and maintaining operating systems. I motivated my team consistently, which led to achievements and accolades from the top management.

As an operating systems developer, I understand the difficulties of this type of job. Hence, I’m well-informed and focus on streamlining processes and creating a favorable working environment in line with the company culture. I help the junior staff to achieve consistent quality work. 

This is an exciting opportunity to share my skills with your team to help your department accomplish its goals. Please reach out to me if you would like to discuss my qualifications further or schedule an interview. Thank you for your time. 

I look forward to hearing from you.

Leadership Position Resume Guide

As a leader, you will handle challenging projects and undertake demanding responsibilities. Your resume should show potential employers that you are willing and able to tackle those tasks head-on. Below, we show you how to craft a winning resume that will help you stand out in the applicant pool.

Why Does Your Leadership Position Resume Matter?

Your resume is the best tool at your disposal to show employers that you are the right person for the job. It gives you an opportunity to present yourself as the competent professional that you are and to showcase all the relevant skills and qualifications. When combined with a persuasive cover letter, a strong resume will help you advance to the next stage of the application process for a leadership position.

Essential Components of Your Leadership Position Resume

There are several formats that you can use for your resume. The most popular ones are reverse-chronological, functional, and combination. Regardless of the format you choose, your resume should have the following sections. 

• Summary Statement. A summary statement goes at the top of your resume and introduces you to the potential employer. It should be a one to three-sentence description of your professional profile. Use this summary to emphasize your ability to communicate, coordinate, delegate, and manage projects.
• Work Experience. For leadership positions, this is perhaps the most important section in your resume. Use this space to tell the prospective employer about relevant jobs you held in the past. Discuss your duties as well as your main accomplishments.
• Education. Use this section to list degrees, certifications, and licenses. When listing your degrees, include the name of the institution you attended, key courses, and GPA.
• Skills. This is where you list skills relevant to the role. For leadership positions, you’d want to focus on soft skills like communication and people management. You can also include applicable technical skills. 

5 Tips for Writing a Strong Leadership Position Resume

Now that you’ve learned the different components to include in a resume, it’s time to outshine your competitors. Here are the top tips that will help you craft a winning resume. 

• Craft a compelling summary statement. The summary statement is at the very top of your resume, so make sure that it grabs the eye of the reader. To create a great summary statement , write a short professional bio that includes your most significant accomplishments as well as your leadership abilities.
• Demonstrate leadership. When writing your resume, add relevant examples that show your leadership skills. For instance, you can explain how your training techniques helped create a memorable customer experience and increased positive customer reviews. This will prove to the hiring manager that you can get results.
• Show your vision. A leadership position requires having concrete goals and a specific vision for where you want to take the team. Use your resume to show the potential employer that you have a vision for the team you’d be leading. 
• Have concrete accomplishments. For each entry in the work history section of your resume, you should list a few quantifiable achievements. This includes figures on profit growth, productivity improvements, or costs reductions.
• Choose the right design. Resumes always benefit from a functional and minimalistic design. Take your time to format your resume in a way that feels uncluttered and organized.

Leadership Position Resume Examples

We have included samples to aid you in the process of writing a great resume. First, you will find several examples of summary statements. Next, there is a template that you can fill in with your own information to help you get started. 

Leadership Position Resume Sample: The Summary Section

• Example 1 : Motivated programming leader with four years of experience in management and operations systems and the ability to direct client ideas and implement them to fulfill their goals. 
• Example 2 : Team player with expertise in presentation and verbal communication passionate about motivating and training employees to enhance their skills and helping them accomplish their goals.
• Example 3 : Visionary leader that derives satisfaction from helping the company implement its strategies to reach its goals. 
• Example 4 : Project manager with ample experience acting as a liaison between the top management and the software development teams as well as creating work plans, delegating duties, and keeping all stakeholders updated on progress. 

Sample Leadership Position Resume Template

Header  

[Insert your name.]

[Insert your address.]

"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"

Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot

[Insert your telephone number.]

[Insert your email address.]

Summary Statement [Give a brief explanation of your abilities and accomplishments.]

Work Experience [List relevant roles you held in the past starting with the most recent one. Below each role, add bullet points with the duties as well as significant accomplishments. Mention how many employees you managed.]

Education [Add relevant academic qualifications, courses, and certifications. Start with the most recent one.]

Skills [Highlight the value you are adding to the company by listing all the relevant skills. Include hard and soft skills.]

Leadership Position Resume Template Resources

• Zety . This resume builder is perfect for IT project manager positions. It also has instructions on how to fill each section of your resume.
• Live Career . Live Career is a resource with free resume templates that are ideal for leadership positions. The templates come with detailed instructions for each section.
• Novo Resume . This service offers templates as well as guidance on how to create a winning resume fast.

Importance of a Leadership Position Cover Letter and Resume

When applying for leadership positions, your cover letter and resume show your prospective employer you are ready and capable of handling a senior role. Use the tips in this article to write an effective cover letter and resume that present you as a result-oriented leader who can guide and motivate employees to accomplish the goals of the company.  

Leadership Position Cover Letter and Resume FAQ

Some of the action words you can use to enhance your cover letter include overhauled, eliminated, motivated, restored, merged, secured, strengthened, streamlined, prioritized, and incorporated. These words will help you sound more confident, experienced, and ready for the tasks ahead of you.

You want to sound formal and respectful when you close your letter. You can use closing salutations like “Sincerely”, “Best regards”, or “Yours truly” followed by your name.

Depending on the field you specialize in, you may need to list different leadership skills. However, leadership abilities commonly found in resumes include budget management, analytics, empathy, communication, listening, problem-solving, critical thinking, and diplomacy.

To optimize your resume for the applicant tracking system, you have to use the keywords in the job description. For instance, if the job description states the company is looking for an operations manager with a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, you should include the terms “operations manager” and “business administration”.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

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Team Leader Cover Letter Example (W/ Guide & Tips for 2024)

Navigating the world of management, you've honed your skills and developed a passion for leading teams. 

Yet, as you eye your next team leader role, you seem to be having a problem - you just don’t feel inspired enough to write the perfect team leader cover letter. 

This blank document, supposed to reflect your leadership skills, can be as challenging as managing a complex project with unforeseen obstacles. 

But don't worry! 

In this article, we will guide you in crafting a cover letter that accentuates your expertise and positions you perfectly for your next leadership role.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

• What an Exceptional Team Leader Cover Letter Looks Like
• 5 Crucial Steps to Crafting the Ultimate Team Leader Cover Letter
• 10 Key Cover Letter Tips for Team Leaders

...and much more! Let’s dive in!

Team Leader Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect Team Leader Cover Letter

Now that you've seen what a winning team leader cover letter looks like, it's your turn to write one for yourself . 

No need to stress; just follow the upcoming steps, and you'll be on your way to creating a cover letter that lands you your dream job.

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

When crafting your team leader cover letter, kick things off with your contact details neatly organized in the header, just like on your resume. Here's what you should have:

• Full Name. Ensure your complete name takes the top spot on the page.
• Professional Title. Align your professional title with the specific job you're pursuing. Clarity about the exact position you're interested in streamlines the process for everyone.
• Email Address. Opt for a professional and straightforward email address, ideally a combination of your first and last name. Those quirky high school email addresses won't cut it. (e.g., [email protected] is great, but [email protected] isn't)
• Phone Number. Provide an accurate contact number for easy reach. If you're applying for an international role, include the appropriate dialing code.
• Location. Typically, your city and state or country are sufficient. However, if you're applying for a remote position or considering relocation, make that clear in your cover letter.
• Relevant Links (Optional): You can include links to relevant websites or social media profiles, such as your LinkedIn.

Next, it's time to include the hiring manager's contact information :

• Company Name. Mention the name of the company you're applying to.
• Hiring Manager's Name. If possible, identify the hiring manager for the department you're targeting. You can check the job listing, the company's website, or their LinkedIn page to discover this information.
• Hiring Manager's Title. If you find the hiring manager for this specific job listing and notice they're the head of the department, use that as their title instead of "Hiring Manager."
• Location. Specify the city, state, or country, particularly for globally operating companies. Optionally, you can add the company's precise street address.
• Email Address (Optional): If available, include the hiring manager's email address.
• Date of Writing (Optional): Consider adding the exact date when you wrote your cover letter for a professional touch.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you've listed the essential contact details, it’s time to address your cover letter to the person who'll be reviewing it.

How you kick off your cover letter can truly set the stage for a great impression with the hiring team, if you do it right. The age-old "To Whom It May Concern" just won’t be good enough for that.

Kick things off by doing a bit of homework. Browse through the job advertisement, the company's official website, or their LinkedIn page to pinpoint the hiring manager for the team leader role you have your sights on. This way, you can grab their name and maybe even their email address.

Once you have their name, respectfully greet them. We suggest using “Ms.” or “Mr.”, followed by their surname. If you’re uncertain about their gender or marital status, no problem—just use their full name. Like so:

• Dear Ms. Kent
• Dear Debra Kent

If you hit a roadblock while looking for the hiring manager's or department leader’s name, don’t worry. You can just address your letter to the department or company as a whole:

• Dear Management Department
• Dear Human Resources
• Dear HR Team
• Dear XYZ Company

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

Hiring managers often take just about seven seconds to skim a candidate’s application before deciding if it’s worth a comprehensive read.

So, it’s essential to immediately strike a chord when writing your team leader cover letter.

Your introductory paragraph should start by explaining who you are and what your motivation for applying is. Conveying your enthusiasm for leadership or the specific team leader role can pique a hiring manager's interest in discovering more about you.

Depending on your career milestones, you might want to start your cover letter by highlighting a significant managerial accomplishment or the skills that distinguish you for the role.

A bit of homework on the company can also make a significant difference. The deeper your understanding of the organization's mission and values, the more effectively you can emphasize your alignment with their ethos.

This shows the hiring manager that you’re not just haphazardly applying to every opportunity. You’re genuinely interested in this particular job.

But keep this introduction brief. You just want to make the hiring manager curious enough to read the full content of your team leader cover letter in depth.

Not sure how long your cover letter should be? Read this article to find out!

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

The heart of your team leader cover letter is the stage to elaborate on what sets you apart as the ideal candidate for the role.

It's essential to do more than repeat what’s already on your resume. This section is your chance to dig deep into your leadership skills and accomplishments. You want the hiring manager to know that you stand head and shoulders above the competition.

Use this section to highlight any notable achievements in your previous jobs, and always reference the job ad. This way, you can pinpoint specific skills and experiences that the company is looking for and add what applies to you to your cover letter.

The more you know about the organization’s goals, structure, or past endeavors, the more it can make you a more appealing candidate. If you're aware of the company's milestones or specific management strategies they've employed, mention that in your cover letter.

This shows you’ve done your homework and that you understand and can contribute to the company's mission and ethos. Don’t hold back on your enthusiasm, either. Emphasize your eagerness to embrace the team leader role and your confidence that you can bring value to the organization with your distinct skills and insights.

Remember to keep an eye out for these fatal cover letter mistakes while writing your own!

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Putting a polished conclusion on your cover letter can determine what's next.

Make sure that your cover letter’s closing paragraph leaves the hiring manager feeling confident in your leadership capabilities and doesn't overshadow the key points you've laid out so far. 

In your closing remarks, briefly recap why you believe you're the ideal team leader candidate and even touch on some leadership qualities or experiences that qualify you for the role.

Then, incorporate a call to action. Encouraging the hiring manager to discuss your application in greater detail shows initiative and can enhance your chances of securing an interview down the line.

As you finish your cover letter, your sign-off should be just as professional as everything so far. Choose an appropriate signature line, and follow it with your full name. Here’s how:

Please contact me at your convenience by email or phone so that we may discuss my qualifications further. I look forward to exploring how I can contribute to your team.

Warm regards,

Emily Johnson

If "Warm regards" doesn't resonate with you, here are some alternatives to consider:

• Yours truly,
• With appreciation,
• In gratitude,
• Thank you for your time and consideration,

Need more inspiration? Check out these 21+ cover letter examples.

10 Essential Team Leader Cover Letter Tips

You've got the cover letter basics down pat!

Now, let's elevate your game with some specialized cover letter tips for team leaders:

• Use a Matching Template. Give your entire application a uniform look with our free resume templates and matching cover letter templates . They're the perfect tools to help you stand out professionally from a sea of candidates for the same position.
• Customize for the Team Leader Role. Tailor your team leader cover letter to the specific position, showing how your skills meet the job requirements.
• Highlight Leadership Experiences. Focus on instances where you successfully led and motivated a team, regardless of the industry, to demonstrate your leadership capabilities.
• Mention Project Management Skills. Share examples of projects or tasks where your management skills contributed to successful outcomes.
• Discuss Communication and Collaboration. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with team members and other departments.
• Be Clear and Concise. Use straightforward language to clearly communicate your qualifications and experiences.
• Express Your Enthusiasm. Show your passion for leadership and teamwork in your cover letter.
• Proofread Thoroughly. Ensure your cover letter is free from errors, reflecting your attention to detail.
• Include a Call to Action. Invite the hiring manager to discuss your application further, indicating your interest in the role.
• Add a Professional Closing. Finish your cover letter with a polite and professional closing to make a strong, positive impression.

Key Takeaways

And that’s all there is to writing a standout team leader cover letter!

Hopefully, you feel more confident about that job application. We’re sure you can craft a cover letter that showcases your potential as a team leader in any industry.

Let’s quickly go over the main points before we part ways:

• Begin your cover letter by detailing your enthusiasm for the team leader role and highlighting why you’re a great fit.
• In the body of your cover letter, emphasize your leadership experiences, especially those where you effectively managed a team.
• Discuss specific instances of handling group challenges or improving team strategies.
• Conclude with an invitation for further discussion or an interview to demonstrate your eagerness for the job opportunity.
• End with a polite and professional closing line to leave a lasting, positive impression on the hiring manager.

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How to write an effective cover letter (with samples)

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You will have to prepare a number of materials for employers while looking for a job. One type of document is the cover letter, which is included with your resume when requesting a job interview. An effective cover letter is directed towards a specific position or company, and describes examples from your experience that highlight your skills related to the role.

You want to convince the reader that your interest in the job and company are genuine and specific. You also want to demonstrate ways that your experience has prepared you for the role by sharing a few brief stories that highlight your qualifications. This takes time and research; use the job description and the company’s web site or LinkedIn page to identify traits and skills the company values.

Cover letter structure and format

A cover letter should be no longer than one page with a font size between 10-12 points. Be sure to include your contact information and address it directly to the hiring manager, using their name. If you are not sure who to address the letter to, write “Dear Hiring Manager.” If the role you are applying for has a reference number or code, be sure to include it in your letter so that human resources is able to accurately track your application. The reference code is usually included

Cover letters typically take the following structure:

Introduction (1st paragraph)

• State clearly in your opening sentence the purpose for your letter and a brief professional introduction.
• Specify why you are interested in that specific position and organization.
• Provide an overview of the main strengths and skills you will bring to the role.

Example : I am a second year master’s student in MIT’s Technology and Policy Program (TPP) writing to apply for a consulting position in Navigant’s Emerging Technology & Business Strategy group. After speaking with John Smith at the MIT career fair, I realized that Navigant’s values of excellence, continuous development, entrepreneurial spirit, and integrity align with the principles that guide me every day and that have driven me throughout my career. Moreover, I believe that my knowledge of the energy sector, passion for data analysis, polished communication skills, and four years of consulting experience will enable me to deliver superior value for Navigant’s clients.

Body (2-3 paragraphs)

• Cite a couple of examples from your experience that support your ability to be successful in the position or organization.
• Try not to simply repeat your resume in paragraph form, complement your resume by offering a little more detail about key experiences.
• Discuss what skills you have developed and connect these back to the target role.

Example : As a graduate student in MIT’s Technology and Policy Program, I spend every day at the cutting edge of the energy sector. In my capacity as an MIT Energy Initiative research assistant, I use statistical analysis to investigate trends in public acceptance and regulation related to emerging energy technologies. Graduate classes in data science, energy economics, energy ventures and strategy, and technology policy have prepared me to help Navigant offer the expert services that set it apart from competitors. Furthermore, I will bring Navigant the same leadership skills that I used as the student leader for the MIT Energy Conference’s Technology Commercialization round-table, and as the mentorship manager for the MIT Clean Energy Prize.

Even before MIT, my four years of work experience in consulting—first at LMN Research Group and then at XYZ Consulting—allowed me to develop the skillset that Navigant looks for in candidates. As a science writer and policy analyst at LMN Research Group, I developed superb technical writing and visual communication skills, as well as an ability to communicate and collaborate with clients at federal agencies such as EPA and DOE. As a research analyst at XYZ Consulting, I developed an in-depth understanding of data analysis, program evaluation, and policy design.

Closing (last paragraph)

• Restate succinctly your interest in the role and why you are a good candidate.
• Thank the reader for their time and consideration.

Example : I take pride in my skills and experience in several domains: critical thinking and analysis, communication, and leadership. I note that Navigant values these same ideals, and I very much hope to use my abilities in service of the firm and its clients. Thank you for your time and consideration, I look forward to speaking with you further about my qualifications.

Additional cover letter tips

• Be sure that each cover letter is specifically tailored to the company you are writing to. Research the company to help you determine your approach. Check the company’s website and other resources online. You can also use MIT’s extensive alumni network through the Alumni Advisors Hub to seek first-hand knowledge, advice, and insight about the company.
• Are you seeking a position in a field or industry that does not have an obvious parallel or connection to your academic training? Be explicit about why you are interested in that particular field, organization or job, and what value you bring. For example, if you are an electrical engineer applying to a finance or consulting position, highlight your quantitative skills and ability to problem-solve.
• If you are applying for a summer job or internship and do not yet have any experience that is directly related to the position, focus on transferable skills that will add value to the role – leadership, communication, problem-solving, project management, etc.
• Lastly, cover letters are a chance to demonstrate the communication skills necessary to most jobs. Careful composing and revision are essential. To put your best foot forward and ensure your cover letter will be effective, schedule an appointment with a CAPD career advisor.

Student Cover Letter Example

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Starting a student cover letter involves introducing yourself, stating the position you're applying for, and briefly explaining why you're interested in the role. It's crucial to make a strong first impression. For instance, you could start with "My name is [Your Name], a [Your Major] major at [Your University]. I am writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]." Then, mention something that drew you to the company or role, such as a shared value or mission, or a unique aspect of the job that aligns with your career goals. This shows that you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the position.

The best way for students to end a cover letter is by expressing gratitude and showing enthusiasm for the potential opportunity. A closing statement like, "Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your team and look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with your needs" would be appropriate. This not only shows politeness but also eagerness and confidence. After the closing statement, students should end with a formal closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by their name. It's also important to include contact information, such as an email address or phone number, for easy follow-up.

Students should include the following elements in a cover letter: 1. Contact Information: At the top of the cover letter, students should include their name, address, phone number, and email address. If applicable, they can also include their LinkedIn profile or professional website. 2. Salutation: The cover letter should start with a professional greeting. If possible, students should address the letter to the specific person who will be reading it. 3. Introduction: In the first paragraph, students should introduce themselves and state the position they are applying for. They can also mention how they learned about the job opening. 4. Body: This is the main part of the cover letter where students should highlight their skills, experiences, and achievements that are relevant to the job. They should explain why they are a good fit for the position and the company. It's important to provide specific examples that demonstrate these qualifications. 5. Conclusion: In the closing paragraph, students should reiterate their interest in the position and thank the employer for considering their application. They can also indicate their availability for an interview. 6. Signature: The cover letter should end with a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by the student's full name. In addition to these elements, students should remember to tailor each cover letter to the specific job and company. They should do some research about the company and use this information to explain why they are interested in working there. The cover letter should be concise, well-organized, and free of spelling and grammar errors. It's also a good idea to include keywords from the job description to show that the student is a good match for the position.

Related Cover Letters for Student

Related resumes for student, try our ai cover letter generator.

Student cover letter examples

Getting a job while you’re a student can be a great way to earn extra cash. The trouble is, you often have little experience behind you, which can make your CV look rather sparse.

That’s where your cover letter comes in. This gives you a chance to go into more detail about your interests, studies and what makes you a good fit for the role.

Find out how to write a persuasive and engaging application, no matter how much experience you have, with our step-by-step guide and student cover letter examples below.

CV templates 

Student cover letter example 1

Student cover letter example 2

Student cover letter example 3

The example cover letters here should give you a good general idea on how your Student cover letter should be formatted and written.

The rest of this guide gives more specific guidance on how to create your own cover letter in this format, and even includes some templates you can copy and paste.

How to write a Student cover letter

A simple step-by-step guide to writing your very own winning cover letter.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

When you send a cover letter with a job application, you should always write your message into the body of your email – or the body of the messaging system if you are sending via a job website.

Why do this?

Simply because you want to get your message seen as soon as the recruiter opens your application.

If you attach the cover letter as a separate item, this means the recipient will have to open it before they can read it – slowing down the process and potentially causing frustration along the way.

So, write your cover note in the body of your email/message to ensure you make an instant connection with the reader.

Start with a friendly greeting

To kick your cover letter off, start with a friendly greeting to build rapport with the recruiter instantly.

Your greeting should be personable but professional. Not too casual, but not too formal either

Go with something like…

• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid old-fashioned greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very formal companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you’ve opened up the cover letter with a warm greeting to start building a relationship, it is time to identify which role you want to apply for.

Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so you need to ensure you apply to the correct one.

Be very specific and use a reference number if you can find one.

• I am interested in applying for the position of *Student job* with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 406f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for a junior project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The sole objective of your cover letter is to motivate recruiters into to opening your CV. And you achieve this by quickly explaining your suitability to the roles you are applying for.

Take a look at the job descriptions you are applying to, and make note of the most important skills and qualifications being asked for.

Then, when crafting your cover letter, make your suitability the central focus.

Explain why you are the best qualified candidate, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider you for the job.

Keep it short and sharp

It is best to keep your cover letter brief if you want to ensure you hold the attention of busy recruiters and hiring managers. A lengthy cover letter will probably not get read in full, so keep yours to around 3-6 sentences and save the real detail for your CV.

Remember the purpose of your cover letter is to quickly get recruiters to notice you and encourage them to open your CV, so it only needs to include the highlights of your experience.

Sign off professionally

To finish off your cover note, add a professional signature to the bottom, stating your important contact details and information.

This not only provides recruiters with multiple means of contacting you, but it also adds a nice professional appearance to the cover letter, which shows that you know how to conduct yourself in the workplace.

Include the following points;

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Warm regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network – e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Aaron Smith Customer service professional 075557437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip : To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate document that you could copy in.

What to include in your Student cover letter

Here’s what kind of content you should include in your Student cover letter…

The exact info will obviously depend on your industry and experience level, but these are the essentials.

• Your relevant experience – Where have you worked and what type of jobs have you held?
• Your qualifications – Let recruiters know about your highest level of qualification to show them you have the credentials for the job.
• The impact you have made – Show how your actions have made a positive impact on previous employers; perhaps you’ve saved them money or helped them to acquire new customers?
• Your reasons for moving – Hiring managers will want to know why you are leaving your current or previous role, so give them a brief explanation.
• Your availability – When can you start a new job ? Recruiters will want to know how soon they can get you on board.

Don’t forget to tailor these points to the requirements of the job advert for best results.

Student cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Student cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

Good morning, Jon

I would like to submit my application for the Finance internship at CF Finance, where I believe my skills in financial analysis and investment strategies can make a valuable contribution.

As a highly driven Finance undergraduate student at Bristol University, I possess a strong track record of analysing complex financial data and making informed recommendations, evident from my selection for the prestigious JPMorgan 2-week intensive programme. In my current part time job at Lloyds TSB, I have honed my attention to detail, ensuring a 99% accuracy rate in cash balancing and implementing a new cash management system that reduced discrepancies by 30% within the first quarter.

Additionally, my experience working with the team at JPMorgan allowed me to develop financial models and reports, leading to the implementation of an automated financial reporting system that reduced reporting time by 5%.

I am eager to continue learning and to have the opportunity to work alongside the team at CF Finance. I am available for an interview at your convenience to further discuss my qualifications. Thank you for considering my application.

Kind regards,

Shana Johnson

I am an enthusiastic student in my first year of sixth form with excellent time management skills, seeking to apply for the retail assistant job at White Stuff.

In my current role as a Shop Assistant at Clarkson Newsagents, I serve up to 50 customers per shift and my proactive problem-solving approach has garnered 40 named positive feedbacks in the last six months, reflecting my dedication to exceptional customer service. Balancing academic responsibilities with work commitments, I have maintained excellent grades and actively participate in school fundraisers and community service projects. Organising events such as quiz nights and completing a sponsored half marathon showcase my passion for teamwork and strong work ethic.

I am excited to contribute my customer service skills and attention to detail to your retail team. I am available for an interview from 22nd March, and I am eager to discuss how my skills can benefit your shop’s success.

Thank you for considering my application.

Rachel Blake

I hope you are well. I am a highly motivated and detail-oriented Chemistry student at the University of Newcastle, specialising in organic synthesis with technical expertise in using HPLC and GC-MS for quality checking and chemical identification, and I am writing to express my interest in your master’s program.

With a proven track record of streamlining laboratory workflows during group projects, I am passionate about delivering accurate and efficient results in my research. During my time as a Peer Tutor at UNSU, I took on the responsibility of assisting freshman chemistry students, providing one-on-one tutoring and conducting revision workshops. Through these efforts, I successfully elevated the average test scores by an impressive 15% within just two years, showcasing my ability to effectively communicate complex concepts and support students in their academic journey. I am keen to further hone my analytical skills and contribute to cutting-edge research projects, and the research topics and innovative environment of your university laboratory aligns perfectly with my career aspirations.

I sincerely appreciate your consideration of my application and I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

All the best,

Fraser Bleaker

Writing a strong attention-grabbing cover letter is a vital step in landing a good Student job.

Use the tips, strategies and examples above to get more responses from you job applications and start lining job interview up.

Good luck with your job search!

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Cover Letter Writing Guide

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Write your first cover letter by downloading the template below and following the step-by-step guide for overall formatting and what to write in each paragraph.

Download the cover letter template in a Microsoft Word document

Step 1: Add Your Contact Information

• Use the same heading as on your resume with your name and personal information below it. You can copy and paste the contact information portion of your resume into a new Word document and start from there.

Step 2: Add the Date, Employer Contact Information, & Greeting

• Underneath your contact information, add the full date, the employer’s contact name and address, and your greeting
• Examples : Dear Lorraine Jimenez,  Dear Dr. Phillips, Dear Hiring Manager, Dear Hiring Committee

Step 3: The Intro Paragraph

The opening sentence should be an enthusiastic reference to your interest in the position. Talk about what led to your discovery of the position and your unique interest in the role. If someone referred you to the position, mention them by name in the first paragraph.

For a more personal or creative letter, you can add in a very brief (2-3 sentences) anecdote or explanation of why you’re interested in this particular employer or job or feel connected to their values. Regardless of how you organize it, your introductory paragraph should include these four things:

• The specific position title
• The organization name
• Why you’re interested
• Why you’d be a good fit

Step 4: Body Paragraph(s)

Cover letters typically include 1-2 body paragraphs that show employers examples of your previous experience or times when you’ve put your relevant skills to use. These examples should be specific, detailing actions you took, things you learned, and the impact of your work whenever possible.

Everyone’s writing style is unique, but each body paragraph generally includes:

• An opening sentence that introduces what experience, skill, or qualification you’ll be explaining in this paragraph.
• Clear example(s) of what you’ve done or accomplished–be specific! Show, don’t tell.
• A sentence that connects what you’ve done with what you can contribute if hired.

Step 5: Closing Paragraph

Your closing paragraph will be shorter than your body paragraphs. It should be a concise wrap-up to your letter that…

• Optional : You can include one more additional fact or expression of unique connection to the role or employer that you haven’t mentioned in the body paragraphs
• Thanks them for their time and consideration of your application

That’s all there is to it! The process may seem overwhelming at first, but if you write to a specific job description and explain your skills and experience with detail, you’ll be off to a great start.

See Examples

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Get Your Cover Letter Reviewed

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• Schedule a 1:1 appointment with the Career Education team

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Director Of Student Activities Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips

Use these Director Of Student Activities cover letter examples and writing tips to help you write a powerful cover letter that will separate you from the competition.

Table Of Contents

• Director Of Student Activities Example 1
• Director Of Student Activities Example 2
• Director Of Student Activities Example 3
• Cover Letter Writing Tips

Director of student activities are responsible for developing and implementing programs that enrich the campus experience for students. They work with a variety of campus organizations to create and promote activities that engage the student body.

When you’re applying for this position, you’ll need to highlight your experience in student affairs and your ability to manage a team of professionals.

Use these examples and tips to write a cover letter that will help you stand out from the competition.

Director Of Student Activities Cover Letter Example 1

I am excited to be applying for the Director of Student Activities position at ABC University. I have more than 10 years of experience in student affairs and believe that my skills and passion for working with students would be a valuable addition to your team.

I have a proven track record of success in creating and implementing programs that engage students and help them connect with the campus community. I have also been successful in fundraising for student activities programs, which is an important component of the Director of Student Activities role.

Most recently, I was the Assistant Director of Student Activities at XYZ University. In this role, I was responsible for overseeing all aspects of the student activities program, including clubs and organizations, leadership development, and campus traditions. I also managed a budget of more than $200,000 and was successful in securing funding from a variety of sources.

I am confident that I have the skills and experience to be successful in the Director of Student Activities role at ABC University. I am eager to discuss how my qualifications would benefit your students and your campus community. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Director Of Student Activities Cover Letter Example 2

I am writing to apply for the Director of Student Activities position that was recently advertised on your website. I am confident that I have the skills and qualifications that you are looking for, and I am eager to put my experience to work for your organization.

I have over three years of experience in the field of student activities, and during that time I have successfully planned and organized a wide variety of events and programs. I have a proven track record of being able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and meet deadlines. I am also an effective leader and team player, and I have a strong commitment to providing excellent customer service.

I am confident that I can be a valuable asset to your organization, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss this position further with you. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Director Of Student Activities Cover Letter Example 3

I am writing to express my interest in the Director of Student Activities position at your college. I have extensive experience working with students and leading student organizations, which makes me a perfect fit for this position.

I have been working in the field of student activities for over 10 years. I started as a student leader myself, and I have since worked my way up to become an executive board member of several different clubs. I have also served as a faculty advisor to many clubs and organizations on campus. My experience has taught me how to work well with students of all ages and backgrounds, as well as how to lead them effectively.

My experience has also given me the opportunity to develop excellent communication skills. I have learned how to communicate effectively with people from all walks of life, including students, faculty members and staff members. I have also learned how to communicate effectively in both written and verbal forms. These skills will be very useful in my new role as director of student activities.

I would love the opportunity to meet with you in person so that we can discuss my qualifications in more detail. I am confident that my experience and skills will make me an asset to your team. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Director Of Student Activities Cover Letter Writing Tips

1. show your passion for the job.

When applying for a job as a Director of Student Activities, it’s important to show your passion for the job. This can be done by using phrases like “I’m excited” and “I’m passionate” in your cover letter.

2. Highlight your experience

One of the best ways to make sure your cover letter is tailored for a specific job is by paying close attention to the details of the position. For example, if you see that an entry-level job opening requires two years of experience in one type of activity and five years’ experience in another type, then highlight any relevant experience you have in those areas.

If there are any additional requirements or skills mentioned for that job, also list them on your application; this will help make it clear how you can meet their needs.

3. Tailor your letter to the job description

The best way to make sure your cover letter is tailored for a specific job is by paying close attention to the details of the position. For example, if you see that an entry-level job opening requires two years of experience in one type of activity and five years’ experience in another type, then highlight any relevant experience you have in those areas.

4. Proofread your cover letter

Proofreading your cover letter is the first step to landing an interview for a job as a Director of Student Activities. As with any position, it’s important to spell-check and double-check that there are no errors in your resume or cover letter. Otherwise, you risk being disqualified before the employer even sees your qualifications.

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Resume Worded   |  Career Strategy

14 orientation leader cover letters.

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

Table of contents

• Orientation Leader
• Senior Orientation Leader
• Student Engagement Coordinator
• Student Orientation Coordinator
• New Student Orientation Leader
• First-Year Experience Coordinator
• New Student Programs Assistant
• Student Services Coordinator
• International Student Advisor
• Alternative introductions for your cover letter
• Orientation Leader resume examples

Orientation Leader Cover Letter Example

Why this cover letter works in 2024, highlighting specific accomplishments.

Instead of simply listing responsibilities, this cover letter provides specific numbers and accomplishments that demonstrate the candidate's ability to create a strong sense of community and connection among students.

Emphasizing Transferable Skills

By highlighting the candidate's communication and empathy skills, it shows how they can directly benefit the Orientation Leader role and create a welcoming environment for new students.

Showing Genuine Excitement

This cover letter conveys the candidate's excitement about the role and the opportunity to work with a diverse student body, demonstrating that they are truly passionate about the position and not just applying to any company.

Show Genuine Interest

Identifying your connection and expressing your eagerness to replicate it is quite refreshing. It's not always about what you've done, but also, why you want to do it. And trust me, hiring managers can tell genuine interest from a generic application!

Relevant Experience Matters

Highlighting your relevant and specific experience, like coordinating and leading a team, shows you can perform well in the role. Plus, you've made it easier for me to see you in the role, which is what you want!

Showcasing Tangible Achievements

It's a big win when you can share something concrete you've achieved, like improving retention rates by a certain percentage. That's something measurable and meaningful you can bring to the table.

Highlighting Leadership and Adaptability

Steering a team through a project, especially one that caters to a large number of students, displays your leadership skills. Plus, creating a virtual platform indicates your adaptability to changing circumstances, a trait that can be a real asset.

Expressing Alignment with Role and Institution

When you show that your passion aligns perfectly with the role and the institution's values, it suggests a potential fit that might go beyond the professional, making you a more compelling candidate.

Showing Enthusiasm and Vision

Presenting a vision for the role - like making the start of college a memorable experience - shows your enthusiasm and commitment to going beyond expectations.

End with a Personal Signature

A unique sign-off like "A Passionate Orientation Enthusiast" adds a personal touch and leaves a memorable impression. It's a nice little flourish to seal a strong cover letter.

Connect through shared experiences

Sharing your personal journey from a freshman to a senior shows a deep understanding of the student experience. This personal touch makes your cover letter more relatable.

Highlight the desire to give back

Mentioning your eagerness to contribute positively to new students highlights your enthusiasm and commitment to the role of an orientation leader.

Show your leadership and communication skills

Describing your role in student organizations showcases your relevant skills and indicates you can handle the responsibilities of an orientation leader effectively.

Demonstrate your impact potential

Expressing excitement about the role suggests you are motivated and have a clear vision of how you can make a difference in the lives of incoming students.

Share your passion for the institution

Your affection for the University of Michigan strengthens your application, showing you're not just looking for any role but specifically want to contribute to this community.

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Connect your past experiences to the orientation leader position

Sharing your positive orientation experience as a student helps me see you're genuinely interested in recreating that for others, which is exactly the kind of motivation we need.

Illustrate your ability to support diverse student needs

Your background as a peer advisor showcases your preparedness to handle a variety of student concerns, making you a strong candidate for the orientation leader role.

Emphasize the importance of a welcoming orientation

Your understanding of orientation's critical role in a student's transition to college life shows that you grasp the importance of the position you're applying for.

Show your commitment to creating a sense of belonging

By emphasizing your goal to foster community and belonging, you're highlighting an essential quality for being an effective orientation leader.

End your orientation leader cover letter on a thankful note

Concluding with a note of thanks demonstrates your good manners and respect for the reader's time, contributing to a favorable overall impression.

Show your personal connection to the orientation leader role

Sharing your experience as an international exchange student not only shows your understanding of the challenges students face but also your genuine passion for helping them overcome these challenges.

Demonstrate your capability in student engagement

Highlighting your ability to lead large groups and organize workshops showcases your leadership skills and your talent for creating engaging, educational experiences for students.

Illustrate your mentoring skills

Discussing your role in providing one-on-one guidance to international students emphasizes your capability for personal student support, an essential trait for an effective orientation leader.

Connect with the company's mission

Expressing enthusiasm for the company’s approach to learning shows you have aligned goals, which makes you a potentially valuable addition to their team.

Express eagerness to contribute

Concluding with a forward-looking statement about joining their team highlights your eagerness and readiness to make a positive impact.

Senior Orientation Leader Cover Letter Example

Personal experience is a plus.

Your personal experience as a freshman gives you a unique understanding of the challenges and needs of the role. It's clear that you're not just looking for a job, but a role where you can make a real difference.

Provide Concrete Results

Sharing specific results of your previous work, like improving retention rates, shows you're results-oriented. This lets me know you're not just about ideas, but about action and meaningful impact as well.

Highlight Transferable Skills

Emphasizing your ability to work with diverse groups underscores your leadership and adaptability. These are key skills for a Senior Orientation Leader role, and it's great to see you've already thought about how your past experiences translate to this new role.

Passion is Visible

Your passion for shaping a student's university journey is apparent. It shows that you understand and value the importance of the orientation experience, and that you're genuinely invested in the role. That's the kind of passion hiring managers are looking for.

End on a High Note

Expressing your excitement about the prospect of joining the team leaves a positive final impression. It's a strong way to close your letter, leaving me with a sense of your enthusiasm and commitment.

Student Engagement Coordinator Cover Letter Example

Demonstrate impact.

Turning the welcome week into a festival of discovery and connection - and boosting participation by 40% - is a great example of how you've made an impact in a previous role. It paints a picture of what you could achieve in the new role too.

Offer Proof of Leadership Skills

Designing a mentorship program that led to an improvement in academic performance shows not just your innovative thinking, but also your ability to lead others to success. This kind of example can really resonate with hiring managers.

Expressing Excitement about the Role

Sharing your excitement about the potential of enhancing campus culture shows your genuine interest in the role and the institution. It indicates you're not just looking for any job, but this specific role at this specific institution.

Share Your Vision

Speaking about the possibilities you see at the institution demonstrates your forward-thinking and proactive approach. It shows you've really thought about how you might fit in and contribute to the institution.

Personalize Your Sign-off

Signing off as "An Engaged and Eager Innovator" not only gives a hint of your personality but also reinforces the key qualities you bring to the table. It's the icing on the cake of a well-crafted cover letter.

Student Orientation Coordinator Cover Letter Example

Emphasize the importance of orientation.

Illustrating the impact of your own orientation experience at Ohio State University demonstrates your understanding of the role's significance and sets a solid foundation for your interest.

Quantify your achievements

Detailing your success in coordinating virtual workshops with specific numbers not only showcases your capability but also provides a tangible measure of your contributions.

Focus on student support

Stating your passion for aiding students in their transition conveys a genuine care for their well-being, an essential quality for a student orientation coordinator.

Bring creative solutions to the team

Expressing your excitement to bring new ideas and energy to the role indicates that you are a dynamic candidate who will actively contribute to the team's success.

Appreciate the reader's time

Acknowledging the time taken to review your application is a polite gesture that rounds off your cover letter on a respectful note.

New Student Orientation Leader Cover Letter Example

Share personal stories in your orientation leader cover letter.

When you talk about your own welcoming experience, it helps me see that you understand the role's impact from the perspective of a new student. This personal touch is powerful.

Showcase relevant experience for the orientation leader role

Mentioning your experience as a peer advisor demonstrates your ability to guide and support students, which is exactly what we look for in an orientation leader.

Highlight your passion for student support

Your enthusiasm for helping new students makes your application stand out. It shows you're not just looking for a job, but you're dedicated to making a difference in students' lives.

Demonstrate your qualifications for being an orientation leader

By connecting your skills and experiences to the role, you make a compelling case for why you're the right fit. This clarity helps me envision you in the position.

Express gratitude in your cover letter

A simple thank you note at the end of your letter adds a touch of professionalism and politeness, leaving a positive impression on the reader.

First-Year Experience Coordinator Cover Letter Example

Show your program facilitation skills.

Telling us about your role as a First-Year Interest Group Leader gives clear proof of your ability to plan and run programs that help students start their university life right. This is what we look for in a candidate.

Demonstrate your student support experience

Explaining how you developed and led seminars shows you not only have the skills to engage students but also the passion to support them individually. This is a valuable trait in a first-year experience coordinator.

Highlight your teamwork in orientation events

Working with a large team to welcome thousands of new students shows your ability to collaborate effectively. This experience is key for creating successful orientation programs.

Express your passion for student success

Stating your commitment to creating supportive environments places you as a candidate who understands the deeper goals of the role. This passion is what sets apart good coordinators.

End with a strong call to action

Asking to discuss how your skills align with the program’s needs shows you’re proactive and serious about contributing to student success. It invites the hiring manager to envision you in the role.

New Student Programs Assistant Cover Letter Example

Connect your background to the role.

Mentioning your experience in student leadership directly ties your past work to what's needed in a new student programs assistant. This makes your application more relevant.

Show your mentorship and team-building skills

Detailing your experience as a Fish Camp Counselor highlights your ability to mentor and build trust among new students, which is essential for helping them adapt to college life. This is exactly what we need.

Illustrate your event management experience

Describing your role in planning orientation events showcases your organizational skills and ability to manage logistics, proving you can handle the responsibilities of the job.

Share your motivation and insight

Explaining why you're excited to support new students, especially as a first-generation college student, adds a personal touch that shows your understanding of the challenges they face. This insight is invaluable.

Close with enthusiasm and readiness

Thanking the hiring manager and expressing eagerness to discuss your role shows you're not just interested in the job, but you're ready to make a meaningful impact. This enthusiasm is compelling.

Student Services Coordinator Cover Letter Example

Highlight your understanding of student services.

By mentioning your background as an international school alumna, you effectively establish a personal connection and deep understanding of the international student experience.

Showcase your program management skills

Talking about your role in organizing orientation programs demonstrates your ability to manage significant student services initiatives, a key requirement for a student services coordinator.

Detail your experience in fostering inclusivity

Your efforts in developing cultural competency workshops underline your commitment to creating an inclusive environment, crucial for the student services coordinator role.

Align with the school’s mission

Your excitement to support the school's mission of empowering students reinforces your alignment with their values and your potential as a valuable team member.

End with a call to action

Inviting further discussion about your fit for the role shows initiative and a proactive approach to your career search, traits highly valued in any candidate.

International Student Advisor Cover Letter Example

Show your personal connection to the international student advisor role.

When you share your personal journey of studying abroad and your desire to support international students, it makes your cover letter more relatable and genuine. This personal touch helps us understand why you're not just looking for any job, but you're passionate about this specific role.

Quantify your impact as an advisor

Detailing your achievements with specific numbers, like the 30% increase in student engagement, gives us a clear picture of what you can bring to our team. It's compelling evidence that you have made a significant difference in your previous roles, which suggests you can do the same here.

Highlight your experience with a diverse student body

By mentioning your work with students from over 50 countries, you're showing us that you have valuable cross-cultural communication skills. This is crucial for an international student advisor who needs to understand and support students from various cultural backgrounds.

Connect with the school's mission

Expressing your alignment with our mission to provide a transformative educational experience for international students tells us you've done your homework. It shows that your values align with ours, making you more likely to fit well within our team.

Express eagerness for a follow-up

Closing your letter by inviting further discussion about how your experiences align with our goals demonstrates both your confidence and your genuine interest in the position. It suggests you're not just applying out of necessity, but you're truly excited about the opportunity to contribute to our organization.

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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Letters to the Editor: Anti-trans Murrieta school board sounds a lot like racist Southern leaders in the 1950s

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To the editor: In 1954, the U.S. Supreme Court decided in Brown vs. Board of Education that it was unconstitutional for public schools to segregate students by race. (“ Murrieta Valley board defies California, will keep policy to tell parents about LGBTQ+ transitioning ,” April 19)

So how did many districts that had to desegregate their schools react? Instead of following the law, many officials put on a decades-long resistance to this well-thought-out decision.

I thought of these actions when I read the comment by a member of the Murrieta Valley Board of Education explaining why that district is defying a state order not to enforce its parental notification rule for transgender students. In language hearkening back to the racist leaders in the South, he said, “We have a right as a board to defy a dictatorial governor and bureaucracy.”

I was an elected board member of a community college district for 20 years. I always recognized that our authority was not absolute and took a back seat to rules and regulations of superior bodies. The Murrieta Valley school board must submit to the authority of the California Department of Education.

Donald L. Singer, Cardiff

To the editor: The Murrieta school board is hereby put on notice.

At the first instance of an unceremoniously outed trans youth being banished from their home, held up to ridicule or, worse, harmed either at their own hand or that of others, the blame will be placed directly at the feet of those board members who have demonstrated that the last refuge of fear is ignorance.

Bill Waxman, Simi Valley

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April 19, 2023

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April 26, 2024

Open Letter to College and University Presidents on Student Protests

Dear College and University Presidents:

We write in response to the recent protests that have spread across our nation’s university and college campuses, and the disturbing arrests that have followed. We understand that as leaders of your campus communities, it can be extraordinarily difficult to navigate the pressures you face from politicians, donors, and faculty and students alike. You also have legal obligations to combat discrimination and a responsibility to maintain order. But as you fashion responses to the activism of your students (and faculty and staff), it is essential that you not sacrifice principles of academic freedom and free speech that are core to the educational mission of your respected institution.

The ACLU helped establish the right to protest as a central pillar of the First Amendment. We have defended those principles for more than a century. The First Amendment compels public universities and colleges to respect free speech rights. And while the Constitution does not apply directly to private institutions, academic freedom and free inquiry require that similar principles guide private universities. We approach this moment with appreciation for the challenges you confront. In the spirit of offering constructive solutions for a way forward, we offer five basic guardrails to ensure freedom of speech and academic freedom while protecting against discriminatory harassment and disruptive conduct.

Schools must not single out particular viewpoints for censorship, discipline, or disproportionate punishment

First , university administrators must not single out particular viewpoints — however offensive they may be to some members of the community — for censorship, discipline, or disproportionate punishment. Viewpoint neutrality is essential. Harassment directed at individuals because of their race, ethnicity, or religion is not, of course, permissible. But general calls for a Palestinian state “from the river to the sea,” or defenses of Israel’s assault on Gaza, even if many listeners find these messages deeply offensive, cannot be prohibited or punished by a university that respects free speech principles.

These protections extend to both students and faculty, and to speech that supports either side of the conflict. Outside the classroom, including on social media, students and professors must be free to express even the most controversial political opinions without fear of discipline or censure. Inside the classroom, speech can be and always has been subject to more restrictive rules to ensure civil dialogue and a robust learning environment. But such rules have no place in a public forum like a campus green. Preserving physical safety on campuses is paramount; but “safety” from ideas or views that one finds offensive is anathema to the very enterprise of the university.

Schools must protect students from discriminatory harassment and violence

Second , both public and private universities are bound by civil rights laws that guarantee all students equal access to education, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. This means that schools can, and indeed must, protect students from discriminatory harassment on the basis of race or national origin, which has been interpreted to include discrimination on the basis of “shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics,” or “citizenship or residency in a country with a dominant religion or distinct religious identity.”

So, while offensive and even racist speech is constitutionally protected, shouting an epithet at a particular student or pinning an offensive sign to their dorm room door can constitute impermissible harassment, not free speech. Antisemitic or anti-Palestinian speech targeted at individuals because of their ethnicity or national origin constitutes invidious discrimination, and cannot be tolerated. Physically intimidating students by blocking their movements or pursuing them aggressively is unprotected conduct , not protected speech . It should go without saying that violence is never an acceptable protest tactic.

Speech that is not targeted at an individual or individuals because of their ethnicity or national origin but merely expresses impassioned views about Israel or Palestine is not discrimination and should be protected. The only exception for such untargeted speech is where it is so severe or pervasive that it denies students equal access to an education — an extremely demanding standard that has almost never been met by pure speech. One can criticize Israel’s actions, even in vituperative terms, without being antisemitic. And by the same token, one can support Israel’s actions in Gaza and condemn Hamas without being anti-Muslim. Administrators must resist the tendency to equate criticism with discrimination. Speech condoning violence can be condemned, to be sure. But it cannot be the basis for punishment, without more.

Schools can announce and enforce reasonable content-neutral protest policies but they must leave ample room for students to express themselves

Third , universities can announce and enforce reasonable time, place, or manner restrictions on protest activity to ensure that essential college functions can continue. Such restrictions must be content neutral, meaning that they do not depend on the substance of what is being communicated, but rather where, when, or how it is being communicated. Protests can be limited to certain areas of campus and certain times of the day, for example. These policies must, however, leave ample room for students to speak to and to be heard by other members of the community. And the rules must not only be content neutral on their face; they must also be applied in a content-neutral manner. If a university has routinely tolerated violations of its rules, and suddenly enforces them harshly in a specific context, singling out particular views for punishment, the fact that the policy is formally neutral on its face does not make viewpoint-based enforcement permissible.

Schools must recognize that armed police on campus can endanger students and are a measure of last resort

Fourth , when enforcement of content-neutral rules may be warranted, college administrators should involve police only as a last resort, after all other efforts have been exhausted. Inviting armed police into a campus protest environment, even a volatile one, can create unacceptable risks for all students and staff. University officials must also be cognizant of the history of law enforcement using inappropriate and excessive force on communities of color, including Black, Brown, and immigrant students. Moreover, arresting peaceful protestors is also likely to escalate, not calm, the tensions on campus — as events of the past week have made abundantly clear.

Schools must resist the pressures placed on them by politicians seeking to exploit campus tensions

Finally , campus leaders must resist the pressures placed on them by politicians seeking to exploit campus tensions to advance their own notoriety or partisan agendas. Recent congressional hearings have featured disgraceful attacks by members of Congress on academic freedom and freedom of speech. Universities must stand up to such intimidation, and defend the principles of academic freedom so essential to their integrity and mission.

The Supreme Court has forcefully rejected the premise that, “because of the acknowledged need for order, First Amendment protections should apply with less force on college campuses than in the community at large.”

“Quite to the contrary,” the court stated, “the vigilant protection of constitutional freedoms is nowhere more vital than in the community of American schools.” In keeping with these values, we urge you to resist the temptation to silence students or faculty members because powerful voices deem their views offensive. Instead, we urge you to defend the university’s core mission of encouraging debate, fostering dissent, and preparing the future leaders of our pluralistic society to tolerate even profound differences of opinion.

Learn More About the Issues on This Page

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Middle East crisis — explained

The conflict between Israel and Palestinians — and other groups in the Middle East — goes back decades. These stories provide context for current developments and the history that led up to them.

Columbia to continue talks with student protesters after deadline to clear out passes

Rachel Treisman

Ayana Archie

Hundreds of people rallied on the University of Minnesota campus on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, to protest Israel's war with Hamas. Earlier in the day, nine antiwar protesters were arrested as police took down an encampment organizers said was set up to show solidarity with the people of Gaza. Mark Vancleave/AP hide caption

Hundreds of people rallied on the University of Minnesota campus on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, to protest Israel's war with Hamas. Earlier in the day, nine antiwar protesters were arrested as police took down an encampment organizers said was set up to show solidarity with the people of Gaza.

Columbia University officials said early Wednesday they will continue to negotiate with student pro-Palestinian protesters after setting a midnight deadline for them to disperse.

Columbia President Minouche Shafik said in setting the deadline that the university had been in talks with demonstrators but would have to "consider alternative options" for clearing the encampments protesters had set up.

But a Columbia spokesperson said in a statement to NPR later that the university was making progress with representatives of the student encampments and "In light of this constructive dialogue, the university will continue conversations for the next 48 hours.

The pro-Palestinian demonstrations that have rocked New York-area schools in recent days — and the ensuing arrests of participants — have spread from coast to coast.

Students have launched protests and encampments at more than a dozen schools across the country, from Massachusetts to Michigan to California. They are calling for an end both to the Israel-Hamas war and their universities' investment in companies that profit from it or, more broadly, do business with Israel.

It's the latest wave of protests to sweep college campuses since the Oct. 7 attack Hamas-led attack on Israel, in which 1,200 people were killed and roughly 240 others taken hostage, according to Israeli authorities, who say more than 130 remain captive in Gaza. Israel's ensuing military response in Gaza has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians, some two-thirds of them women and children, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health.

Columbia University shifts classes to remote-only after a wave of protests on campus

College-age Americans are more likely to sympathize with Palestinians than Israelis, according to recent polling by the Pew Research Center .

And the Israel-Hamas war has become a major flashpoint at institutions of higher education, many of which are now grappling with how to balance free speech protections with student safety at a moment of rising antisemitism and Islamophobia .

Police break up protests from New York to California

NYPD officers face pro-Palestinian protesters on Monday night after clearing an encampment on NYU's campus. Alex Kent/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

NYPD officers face pro-Palestinian protesters on Monday night after clearing an encampment on NYU's campus.

On Monday, police arrested nearly 50 protesters at Yale University while Columbia, which has seen rising tensions since more than 100 demonstrators were arrested last week, shifted classes online — a move it has since extended through the end of the semester. (Classes end on April 29 and finals end on May 10, according to the school's academic calendar .)

New York police on Monday cleared an encampment of pro-Palestinian protesters outside New York University's Gould Plaza, taking an unspecified number of them into custody after they refused to leave.

Concerns over antisemitism rise as Jews begin observing Passover

An NYU faculty group tweeted that the school had authorized police to "arrest its own students, faculty, staff and anyone who dares to stand in solidarity with Palestine."

NYU spokesperson John Beckman said in a statement that after some 50 demonstrators assembled that morning, the university closed the plaza to prevent additional people from joining.

He said more protesters — "many of whom we believe were not affiliated with NYU" — breached the barriers in the afternoon, changing the dynamic with their "disorderly, disruptive, and antagonizing behavior," and noted reports of "intimidating chants and several antisemitic incidents."

"Given the foregoing and the safety issues raised by the breach, we asked for assistance from the NYPD," he added. "The police urged those on the plaza to leave peacefully, but ultimately made a number of arrests."

Columbia cancels in-person classes after some students say they don't feel safe

Negotiations continue at columbia.

The Columbia spokesperson said the school had reached agreement with protest representatives that they would remove a "significant" number of the tents they had set up on the campus' West Lawn and that those in the encampment would comply with fire department safety requirements.

They agreed to ensure that those not affiliated with the university would leave the encampment and only Columbia students would participate in the protests and that they had agreed to prohibit harassing and discriminatory language, the spokesperson said.

Shafik said in her statement late Tuesday that "We are working to identify protestors who violated our policies against discrimination and harassment, and they will be put through appropriate disciplinary processes."

'A dangerous and volatile situation'

Across the country at California State Polytechnic University, a group of students waving Palestinian flags and signs occupied Siemens Hall, an academic and administrative building on the Humboldt campus.

They barricaded the front entrance with chairs, desks, trash cans and other pieces of furniture, according to reports from ABC affiliate KRCR and an image posted to social media by the organization National Students for Justice in Palestine.

Barricades at the Cal Poly Humboldt occupation, where riot police have recently arrived on the scene pic.twitter.com/FHT0WLnH72 — National Students for Justice in Palestine (@NationalSJP) April 23, 2024

Around 8:30 p.m. local time, school officials urged people to stay away from the building, calling it "a dangerous and volatile situation." They said they were concerned about the safety of the protesters barricaded inside and called on them to heed law enforcement's directive to leave peacefully.

Several hours later, they said campus will remain closed through Wednesday for the safety of the community.

"Buildings are locked down and key cards will not work," they said, adding that "In-person classes and activities are transitioning to remote where possible."

Solidarity encampments emerge at over a dozen schools

Pro-Palestinian students protest at a tent encampment in front of Sproul Hall on the UC Berkeley campus on Monday. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images hide caption

Pro-Palestinian students protest at a tent encampment in front of Sproul Hall on the UC Berkeley campus on Monday.

Pro-Palestinian students at colleges in multiple states are now launching movements of their own, many as a direct response to the recent events at Columbia.

Students at Northwestern University, Ohio State University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Temple University, Princeton University, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and others held walkouts and rallies in support of Columbia students last week after their arrest.

And others have followed suit this week.

A Pro-Palestinian student group at the University of Minnesota tweeted that they were joining with Columbia students by setting up an encampment on their own campus lawn at 4 a.m. on Tuesday, in solidarity "with the people of Palestine and with students standing up for Palestine across the country."

Students at the University of Pittsburgh also set up tents on Tuesday morning outside its central Cathedral of Learning, which they said in a news release was done in solidarity with students at a list of other schools.

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators shut down airport highways and bridges in major cities

Some 300 students staged a "solidarity walkout" at Stanford University on Monday to show support for Palestinians in Gaza and their pro-Palestinian peers at other colleges, according to the Stanford Daily .

Students have also put up encampments at several Boston-area schools , including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Emerson College and Tufts University. Harvard University has closed Harvard Yard to the public through Friday, in apparent anticipation of potential protests.

At the University of Michigan, student groups erected some two dozen tents in the middle of campus on Monday. Michigan Public reports that some 100 people gathered for a rally that afternoon, chanting "Disclose! Divest! We will not stop, we will not rest!" as police looked on.

Students at the University of California, Berkeley also set up a " Gaza Solidarity Encampment " on Monday. Organizers told ABC7 that they want school leaders to end what they're calling their "silence" over the situation in Gaza and to provide better protection for Palestinian, Arab and Muslim students.

Questions loom about protections for students and speech

Protestors occupy an encampment on the grounds of Columbia University in New York City on Monday. David Dee Delgado/Getty Images hide caption

Protestors occupy an encampment on the grounds of Columbia University in New York City on Monday.

The recent turmoil has raised even more questions about the responsibility of universities when it comes to balancing student safety with freedom of expression.

Some pro-Palestinian activists have publicly said they are protesting Israel, not Jews, and noted that their ranks include many Jewish students. At Columbia and Yale, some came together for Passover seders mid-protest .

Debbie Becher, a sociology professor at Barnard College (which is part of Columbia), told Morning Edition Tuesday that campus feels relatively safe and peaceful, unlike the portrayals of it on social media. She described the pro-Palestinian encampment as a "place of sharing and community building."

"Students have watched movies there, they hold teach-ins, they study, they eat together," she said.

But the demonstrations have left other Jewish students feeling unsafe, particularly due to reports of antisemitic rhetoric and harassment on several campuses.

The Anti-Defamation League has tracked several instances of protesters expressing support for Hamas and the Oct. 7 attack. A protester at Columbia, for example, held up a sign reading "Al-Qasam's next targets" with an arrow pointing towards nearby pro-Israel counter-protesters (referring to Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas).

The war in Gaza is a big story on campus. These student reporters aren't shying away

It says students at various schools have also waved signs glorifying figures associated with U.S.-designated terror groups, used pro-Intifada slogans and called for destroying Zionism and either hounding or getting rid of Zionists altogether.

Tensions reached such a boiling point at Columbia that a university-affiliated rabbi urged Jewish students over the weekend to return home for their own safety.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams spoke out against antisemitic incidents and hate speech at Columbia in a statement that referenced specific incidents, including a woman yelling "We are Hamas" and student groups chanting "We don't want no Zionists here."

The White House also released a statement on Sunday condemning the "calls for violence and physical intimidation targeting Jewish students," saying they have "have absolutely no place on any college campus, or anywhere in the United States of America."

NYPD officers detain a person as pro-Palestinian protesters gather outside of Columbia University on Thursday. Kena Bentacur/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

NYPD officers detain a person as pro-Palestinian protesters gather outside of Columbia University on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Shafik is facing criticism for her response to the protests at Columbia.

Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., is leading New York Republicans' charge to get her to resign, a seeming repeat of the situation in December, when the presidents of Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania resigned after widely panned Congressional testimony.

Shafik testified before Congress about the school's response to antisemitism last Wednesday, the day students set up the encampment. In her testimony, Shafik told lawmakers that antisemitism "is not tolerated and it is not acceptable."

The next day, she called in the NYPD to break up the demonstration, which she said violated university policies and posed a "clear and present danger" to its functioning.

Lawmakers grill the presidents of Harvard, MIT and Penn over antisemitism on campus

Her decision has been widely criticized by groups including the university's own Knight First Amendment Institute and the American Association of University Professors . Its Columbia and Barnard chapter plans to submit a "resolution of censure" against her and other administration officials, the Columbia Spectator reported Tuesday.

"President Shafik's violation of the fundamental requirements of academic freedom and shared governance, and her unprecedented assault on students' rights, warrants unequivocal and emphatic condemnation," it reads.

In a Monday note to the Columbia community , Shafik said administrators, deans and faculty were working to resolve the situation, including by discussing with protesters what actions the community can take to "peacefully complete the term and return to respectful engagement with each other."

She added that she is aware of the debate around "whether or not we should use the police on campus" and happy to participate in those discussions.

"But I do know that better adherence to our rules and effective enforcement mechanisms would obviate the need for relying on anyone else to keep our community safe," she said. "We should be able to do this ourselves."

Becher, the Barnard professor, said "the actual crisis here is the university leadership's failure to stand up to right-wing actors."

"Our president has, over the past six months and at Congress last week, abandoned our institutions of academic freedom, freedom of expression and turned our campus into a police state," she added. "And now other campuses around the country are following suit."

In a Monday statement , the civil liberties group Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) called on universities to protect peaceful protest but "ensure the swift arrest" of anyone engaging in violence on campus. But it acknowledged the extra challenges posed by this "extraordinarily difficult" moment.

"Tensions are high and nerves are raw," it said. "The charity and grace necessary for productive dialogue are in vanishingly short supply, and it can be difficult to separate protected expression from its opposite. Amidst this intense pressure, our nation's institutions of higher education must lead the way."

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• campus protests
• Israel-Hamas war
• college campuses