Cover Letter Checklist
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Cover letter is error free (no grammar or spelling errors)
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Cover letter is one page
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Cover letter paper is standard size and either white, ivory, or light gray
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Font size and type is appropriate
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Cover letter is easy to read and the most important points stand out
Student’s contact information is complete
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Employer’s contact information is complete (name, title, organization, address) and accurate
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Greeting is appropriate and directed to one contact person in the organization
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Cover letter does not use jargon, acronyms, or abbreviations that are likely to be unfamiliar to the
employer
First paragraph includes:
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Name of position for which the student is applying
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Organization name
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How the student found the position
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Degree obtaining from The Ohio State University
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Anticipated graduation date
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Future career plans, if related to the position
Second paragraph includes:
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Specific skills mentioned in the internship or job description
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Where and how those skills were developed
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How the student is a good fir to the organization based on its mission, goals, and current projects
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Descriptions quantify results or give some idea of the impact, scope of responsibility, or level of
skill
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Descriptive words are used to avoid redundancy
Third paragraph includes:
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Statement of interest in the position
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Reference to the resume for additional information and qualifications
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Contact information (phone number and email address)
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Thank you statement
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Closing is appropriate
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Cover letter is signed in black or blue ink