How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship That Actually Works

Key Takeaways

• A well-crafted cover letter can set you apart in the internship application process.
• Start strong by aligning yourself with the company’s mission and showing you’ve done your research.
• Highlight specific achievements with numbers or outcomes to demonstrate your value.
• Tailor every cover letter to the role and company for maximum impact.
• Close confidently with a clear call-to-action to show initiative and eagerness.

The Ugly Truth About Cover Letters

Most cover letters suck. Let’s be honest—they’re boring, generic, and packed with fluff no one cares about. Yet, they’re your ticket to standing out. So, if you’re not putting in the effort, why should the hiring manager care?

Here’s the deal: A killer cover letter doesn’t just tell people what you’ve done—it sells them on why they should care about you. It’s about showing value upfront, aligning with the company’s mission, and making them say, “We need this person on our team.”

Now let’s break down exactly how to write a cover letter for an internship that doesn’t end up in the trash.

Step 1: Understand Your “Buyer” (The Hiring Manager)

Before you write a single word, think about this: What’s their problem, and how do you solve it?

Companies bring on interns for one reason: to add value. That means your cover letter needs to answer three questions:

1. What can you do for them?
2. Why should they care?
3. Why you over someone else?

Skip this step, and you’re just another applicant. Nail it, and you’re halfway to the job.

Step 2: Stop Writing About Yourself (Kinda)

Most people start their cover letter with:

“I am a [insert major] at [insert school], and I’m applying for [position].”

Yawn. Here’s the truth: They don’t care about you—yet. Start by focusing on them.

Example Opening That Grabs Attention:

“I saw your recent campaign for [specific project], and I was blown away. The way you used [specific strategy] to [specific result] showed exactly the type of innovative thinking I want to be a part of. That’s why I’m applying for your internship.”

See what just happened? You flipped the script. You’re not another random student begging for a job. You’re someone who gets their company and wants to contribute. Now you’ve got their attention.

Step 3: Show, Don’t Tell

Saying you’re “hardworking” or “detail-oriented” doesn’t cut it. Show them. Use metrics, examples, and results to make your case.

Bad Example:

“I’m a quick learner and good at solving problems.”

Good Example:

“In my last group project, I led a team of five to complete a market analysis that increased engagement for a local business by 20%. I learned to break down complex data and communicate it clearly—a skill I’m excited to bring to your team.”

Numbers win. Results win. Always.

Step 4: Tie Everything Back to Them

Here’s a secret: They don’t hire you for your benefit—they hire you for theirs. Everything you write should connect back to their goals.

Example:

“Your company’s mission to make technology more accessible aligns with my work creating user-friendly designs for small businesses. I’m eager to bring my skills in [specific skill] to help [specific outcome].”

See the pattern? It’s not just about what you’ve done—it’s about what you can do for them.

Step 5: Close Like a Closer

Most cover letters end weak:

“Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you.”

Weak. You’re not hoping they call you—you’re expecting it.

Strong Closing Example:

“I’m confident I can bring [specific value] to your team and would love to discuss how I can help [specific goal]. I’ll follow up next week to see if we can schedule a quick conversation.”

Take control. It shows confidence and initiative—two traits people hire for.

Bonus: Don’t Overthink It

A great cover letter isn’t a novel. It’s 3-4 short paragraphs that:

1. Get their attention.
2. Show your value with proof.
3. Tie it back to their goals.
4. Close with confidence.

Cover Letter Example That Works

Here’s how it all comes together:

John Doe
123 Example Street
Anywhere, USA 12345
john.doe@email.com
(555) 555-5555

Ms. Jane Smith
Hiring Manager
Top Marketing Firm
456 Innovation Avenue
New York, NY 10101

Dear Ms. Smith,

I’ve been following Top Marketing Firm’s work for months, and your recent campaign for [specific project] was next-level. The way you used [specific strategy] to drive [specific result] was inspiring—and exactly why I’m excited to apply for your marketing internship.

At [Your University], I led a team project that increased engagement for a local business by 20% through social media strategies. We implemented [specific tactic] and streamlined their content calendar, which taught me how to manage deadlines and maximize results. I’m confident I can bring that same creativity and focus to your team.

Your commitment to innovation and data-driven results aligns with my passion for turning insights into action. I’d love to contribute my skills in [specific skill] to help [specific outcome].

I’m excited about the opportunity to join your team and will follow up next week to discuss how I can add value to Top Marketing Firm. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
John Doe

Why This Works

• It’s not about the applicant—it’s about the company.
• It highlights specific skills and results.
• It oozes confidence without arrogance.

FAQs: Cover Letters That Actually Get You Hired

Q: How long should my cover letter be?
Short and sweet—one page max.

Q: Should I address it to a specific person?
Yes. If you don’t know their name, do your homework. No excuses.

Q: What if I don’t have experience?
Focus on transferable skills (teamwork, problem-solving) and show your enthusiasm.

Q: Do hiring managers actually read these?
Yes. A great cover letter can get you noticed even if your resume isn’t perfect.

Q: Can I reuse the same letter?
Only if you enjoy getting ghosted. Tailor it every time.

Final Thoughts

Most people write cover letters to “check a box.” You’re not most people. If you follow this guide, you’ll write a cover letter that commands attention, sells your value, and lands the internship.

Remember: You’re not asking for a favor—you’re offering them an asset. Write like it.