Reflection:
Having completed my Cover Letter, I feel much more confident in narrowing down the essential points of what a potential employer would want to know about me immediately. I think that being able to look at samples and read our textbook’s definitions/ tips made this task less daunting when you have a well-thought-out formula that can be personalized to each individual and scenario. Practicing good concise writing that considers the audience and uses the AIDA format is always applicable in a cover letter. You want to always strike attention and interest right from the start so that the rest of the piece will be seriously considered; building that desire and action is what makes the difference between getting an interview and moving to the next steps of the application process or being passed up. While writing and editing my cover letter, I always kept in mind that this was the first impression my prospective employer would get of me – it feels incredibly powerful and essential to figure out how I want to come across. This process also offers time for creativity when balancing professional and persuasive writing. The work has gone well, and I appreciated having extra class time to review samples and discuss what went well and what maybe needed some work. I felt it flowed nicely between our practice in the book and writing our drafts, and devoting that crucial peer review time made me feel more than ready to finalize my own.
Cover Letter:
Elia M. O’Hara
P.O BOX 159, Biddeford Pool, ME 04006 | (207) 412-8185 | emarieohara11@gmail.com
February 10, 2023
Grace Hooke, Engagement Coordinator
ACLU of Maine
PO Box 7860
Portland, ME 04112
Dear Ms. Hooke,
I am writing to express my interest in joining the Maine American Civil Liberties Union team as a summer intern for 2023. After reading your advertisement on the ACLU of Maine website, I was eager to bring my enthusiasm to advocate for equality, justice, and representation through this essential community-serving position.
I am a second-year student at the University of New England with a double major in English and Political Science and a double minor in Writing and Health, Law, & Policy. My interest in the legal field and writing are propelled through internships at local law firms and with local state representatives. Additionally, I have participated in local initiatives ranging from organizing protests, conducting research for Maine organizations, and connecting my academic writing with topics I am passionate about for scholarship opportunities.
As a summer intern, I can draw from previous practical experiences, such as my role working with a variety of professionals and peers through my position as a writing tutor. I am also the Founder and President of the Arts and Humanities Club on campus, which allows me to be creative when planning events and practice clear, thoughtful communication to ensure events run smoothly.
Having looked up to the ACLU as a pillar of social justice and a human rights champion since I began to pose questions about the world around me, this position would make my years of admiration and desire to do my part a reality. Thank you for your time and consideration of my application, and I look forward to assisting you further throughout this process. I have provided my phone number and email address below; please feel free to reach out at your convenience.
Yours Sincerely,
Elia O’Hara
(207) 412-8185
Leave a Reply