How to Write an Internship Motivation Letter (with Examples)
Learn how to write a standout internship motivation letter with our expert tips, key components, and real examples. Boost your chances of landing your dream internship.
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When applying for internships, a well-crafted motivation letter can be the key to setting yourself apart from other candidates. Your motivation letter is your chance to showcase your passion, skills, and fit for the role. It allows you to go beyond your resume and explain why you are the ideal candidate for the internship.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential components of a compelling internship motivation letter. We'll provide tips on language, structure, and real-world examples to help you craft a letter that grabs the attention of internship coordinators and hiring managers. By following these best practices, you can increase your chances of landing that coveted internship position.
Key Statistics
Internship Hiring
Of companies plan to hire interns
Internship Conversion
Of interns receive job offers
Cover Letter Impact
Of employers prefer candidates with cover letters
Key Components of an Effective Cover Letter
A well-structured cover letter should include several essential elements to make a strong impression on potential employers. Here are the key components you should include:
1. Compelling Opening
Start your motivation letter with an attention-grabbing opening that immediately conveys your enthusiasm for the internship. Avoid generic statements like "I am writing to apply for the internship." Instead, lead with a unique anecdote, personal connection to the company, or impressive achievement.
Example: "When I first discovered ABC Company's innovative approach to sustainable fashion, I knew I had to be part of the team. As a passionate advocate for eco-friendly practices with a background in textile design, I am excited to contribute my skills and learn from industry leaders at ABC."
Example:
"When I first discovered ABC Company's innovative approach to sustainable fashion, I knew I had to be part of the team. As a passionate advocate for eco-friendly practices with a background in textile design, I am excited to contribute my skills and learn from industry leaders at ABC."
2. Demonstrating Fit
Show that you have researched the company and understand its mission, values, and goals. Explain how your skills, experiences, and interests align with the internship requirements and company culture. Demonstrate that you are a strong fit for the role.
Example: "Through my coursework in marketing and my volunteer experience with local non-profits, I have developed strong skills in social media management and community outreach. I am excited to apply these skills to support XYZ Company's mission of empowering underprivileged youth through education."
Example:
"Through my coursework in marketing and my volunteer experience with local non-profits, I have developed strong skills in social media management and community outreach. I am excited to apply these skills to support XYZ Company's mission of empowering underprivileged youth through education."
3. Highlighting Achievements
Use specific examples and quantifiable achievements to showcase your relevant skills and experiences. Highlight projects, coursework, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your abilities and passion for the field.
Example: "As a member of my university's sustainability club, I led a campaign that reduced campus waste by 30% through increased recycling and composting efforts. I also conducted research on sustainable packaging alternatives and presented my findings at a national conference."
Example:
"As a member of my university's sustainability club, I led a campaign that reduced campus waste by 30% through increased recycling and composting efforts. I also conducted research on sustainable packaging alternatives and presented my findings at a national conference."
4. Conveying Passion and Motivation
Express your genuine passion for the field and your motivation for pursuing the internship. Explain how the opportunity aligns with your long-term career goals and how you plan to contribute to the company's success.
Example: "I have always been fascinated by the intersection of technology and healthcare. Interning at MedTech Solutions would allow me to apply my programming skills to develop innovative solutions that improve patient outcomes. I am eager to learn from experienced professionals and contribute to projects that make a real difference in people's lives."
Example:
"I have always been fascinated by the intersection of technology and healthcare. Interning at MedTech Solutions would allow me to apply my programming skills to develop innovative solutions that improve patient outcomes. I am eager to learn from experienced professionals and contribute to projects that make a real difference in people's lives."
5. Strong Closing
End your motivation letter with a confident and forward-looking statement. Reiterate your interest in the internship and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the company. Thank the reader for their time and consideration.
Example: "I am excited about the possibility of joining ABC Company as a marketing intern and contributing my skills to support your mission. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss further how I can add value to your team."
Example:
"I am excited about the possibility of joining ABC Company as a marketing intern and contributing my skills to support your mission. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss further how I can add value to your team."
Tips for Writing a Great Cover Letter
1. Research the Company
Before writing your motivation letter, thoroughly research the company and the specific internship. Review the company's website, social media, and recent news to understand their mission, values, and current projects. Tailor your letter to demonstrate how your skills and experiences align with the company's goals.
2. Highlight Relevant Skills and Experiences
Focus on the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the internship. Use specific examples and quantifiable achievements to demonstrate your abilities. If you have limited work experience, highlight relevant coursework, projects, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities that showcase your potential.
3. Show Passion and Motivation
Convey your genuine passion for the field and your motivation for pursuing the internship. Explain how the opportunity aligns with your career goals and how you plan to contribute to the company's success. Demonstrate your enthusiasm for learning and growing within the organization.
4. Proofread and Edit
Before submitting your motivation letter, carefully proofread and edit your work. Check for spelling, grammar, and formatting errors. Ensure that your letter is clear, concise, and error-free. Consider asking a mentor, professor, or career counselor to review your letter and provide feedback.
Language Tips for Cover Letters
Power Words to Strengthen Your Cover Letter
Including these powerful words and phrases can make your cover letter more impactful and memorable:
Achievement Words
- Achieved - Shows results and completion
- Delivered - Demonstrates fulfillment of goals
- Increased - Shows growth and improvement
- Transformed - Indicates significant change
Leadership Words
- Spearheaded - Shows initiative and leadership
- Orchestrated - Coordinated complex activities
- Pioneered - First to implement or create
- Mentored - Guided others to success
Skill Words
- Analyzed - Shows analytical abilities
- Streamlined - Improved efficiency
- Collaborated - Worked well with others
- Innovated - Created new solutions
Phrases to Avoid
These common phrases can weaken your cover letter. Use the alternatives instead:
| Avoid | Use Instead | Why |
|---|---|---|
| "To Whom It May Concern" | Research the name of the hiring manager | Shows lack of research and effort |
| "I think I would be a good fit" | "My experience in X has prepared me to excel in Y" | Sounds uncertain; be confident instead |
| "This job would help me" | "I would bring value to your team by..." | Focus on what you can offer, not what you'll gain |
| "I'm a hard worker" | Specific example of your work ethic | Generic claim without evidence |
Additional Tips
Do's
- Customize your letter for each internship application
- Use specific examples and quantifiable achievements
- Demonstrate your research and knowledge of the company
- Express your passion and motivation for the role
- Proofread and edit carefully
Don'ts
- Use generic or templated language
- Focus solely on what you hope to gain from the internship
- Include irrelevant or overly personal information
- Exceed one page in length
- Submit without proofreading
Cover Letter Template
Internship Motivation Letter Template
Header
Date
Recipient
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Opening
Body Paragraph 1
Body Paragraph 2
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