When you’re looking to give your academic or beginning career a boost, you need to do more than complete an application. Most programs expect candidates to send a letter of intent that clearly states their goals and sets them apart from other applicants. It’s tough to write this letter because you may not know how to position yourself as a unique candidate. Some writers aren’t sure how to approach this style of writing and simply restate all of the information from their application instead of providing new information.
Skipping the letter of intent or writing an ineffective one could put you out of running for the position or spot in a coveted academic program. That’s why it’s essential to spend time on this type of letter by reviewing letter of intent templates. You can get writing tips and formatting help for an edge over other candidates. Letter of Intent Template
Letter of Intent Template
Riley Paulsen is a student at a university seeking an internship in journalism. She has applied to the internship program offered by the magazine, The Washington Life. As part of her graduation requirements for her degree, she needs to complete an internship during her last term.
Dear Ms. Wise,
I am submitting an application for an internship with your magazine’s political department for the spring 2018 term. I am currently in my senior year of study at American University in the journalism program. I would like to get real-life experience in a professional publication to complete my program’s practical experience requirements. My ultimate goal is to work in the magazine publishing industry, and an internship at your organization can help me achieve this.
For the past three years, I have been a regular reader of your magazine because of the quality of the political reporting and information. During this time, I have also developed a strong interest in researching and writing political stories about the nation’s capital. I have spent many hours interviewing lawmakers and interpreting policy for assignments in my program and as a reporter for my school’s newspaper, The Signal. I have a passion for the craft of writing and a focus on reporting only the facts. An internship at your organization can help me learn additional skills needed to be an effective journalist.
I think I would be an excellent addition to your team. Please review my resume, transcripts, writing sample, and application. I appreciate the time you’re taking to consider me. I am excited about the prospect of joining the team of the top writers and reporters at The Washington Life.
Sincerely,
Riley Paulsen
How To Write a Letter of Intent
The purpose of your letter of intent is to inform an organization about your interest in a position or program. Letters of intent typically accompany an application and give program heads more information about you, and should also help persuade the program director of your skill and value. You need to convince the audience that you could benefit the organization. You should also provide evidence of how the program is going to help you with your goals.
In the beginning of your letter, you should aim to introduce yourself to the audience. State what you are applying to, whether it’s an internship or a spot in an academic program. Be specific about which academic term you would like to start and indicate the department as well. Then, describe how this program or internship will help you.
In the next part, as demonstrated in the letter of intent template, give the reader some background about your experience and readiness for the internship or program. Tell some details about skills you have, classes you’ve taken, or other attributes. You should also demonstrate knowledge about the organization to show you’ve done your homework. Additionally, point out how the program or internship experience will give you the tools to reach your career goals.
At the end of your letter, be sure to reiterate your interest in the program to end on a strong note. Direct the reader to review your documents, such as transcripts and your application. Make sure you also thank the program director for taking time to review your information. This approach can help you make a great first impression.
What To Avoid in Your Letter of Intent
In some situations, your letter of intent may be one of hundreds the program director reviews before selecting candidates. That’s why it’s a good idea to avoid common mistakes when writing this type of correspondence. Avoid being too generic. You may have applied to dozens of programs that are similar, but don’t use the same form letter for each position. Instead, personalize each individual letter so you can appear more serious and vested in the organization.
Another problem you should avoid is neglecting your own accomplishments. While it’s important to convey your enthusiasm about the organization by praising its success, you also need to point out your own top qualities. Some writers get so focused on demonstrating their knowledge about the program that they forget about convincing the reader of their own talents. Make sure you point out all of your capabilities related to the position or program so you can give a compelling reason why this company should choose you.
How To Follow Up After Sending Your Letter of Intent
Follow up is an important part of the process for getting into a stellar academic program or internship. There are several ways you could follow up after sending your letter of intent. After a week or two, you can try calling the program director’s office to see if he or she has made a decision. If there still is no decision, keep calling once a week until you get an answer. Make sure you continue to state your interest in the position or spot in the program whenever you call. Be polite and thank the person on the phone for the information. If it’s not possible to call, you can use email to find out the status of your application as well.
Top 5 Letter of Intent Writing Takeaways
1. Make a memorable introduction
You need to make sure the recipient knows your letter’s purpose. You should also aim to be memorable in the first few sentences of your letter. Your goal is to make the reader choose you.
2. Explain how the position or program could help you
Within the first few sentences, mention how the program or job could benefit your life. Make a connection between the attributes of the program and your goals for your academics or future career.
3. Show off your knowledge of the organization
Before you write your letter, do some research about the company or school to have a better understanding of the program. Demonstrate how much you know by including some important details about the organization. This shows the reader you’re willing to invest time and energy into something.
4. Give evidence of your suitability for the position or program
You need compelling evidence of your capability to succeed with the program or job. Throughout your letter of intent, give information about your background, your experience, and your knowledge that is directly connected to the organization.
5. Double check for spelling and grammar
There may be hundreds of other people vying for the same spot or job you want. Don’t give the program director or manager a reason to eliminate you by making careless errors throughout your letter. Before sending it, do a thorough edit and spellcheck so you are certain your letter is perfect.
