fellowship cover letter sample

A Compelling Cover Letter for a Fellowship Position

Winning a fellowship is a huge accomplishment, whether from your university or from an outside source. Because they are so highly competitive, students can place such an achievement on their resumes/CVs, later on, will always have an edge.

Applying for a fellowship is much like applying for a job. You will need a strong resume that is accompanied by a cover letter. That cover letter for a fellowship is a critical piece of your application packet because it is your personal introduction and encapsulation of your major achievements during your academic career thus far. 

As well, you want to show that you have clear career goals and how this fellowship will help in their achievement. To help with this, we have included a sample letter and some writing tips.

Cover Letter Sample For Fellowship in .docx Format

Here is a sample cover letter from a student who is seeking a fellowship to undertake a special project through an academic department at their university.

Download example (Word version)

Cover Letter Example For Fellowship – Plain Text

Dear Selection Committee Members,

My name is Elaine Ninja and I am writing to apply for a research fellowship from The Social Justice Foundation. I learned about this fellowship opportunity from Dr. Grant Mason, as he and I were discussing my upcoming sabbatical. It is my hope that you will find the project I am planning valuable enough to provide me with the fellowship that I am requesting. 

I am currently taking a sabbatical from my positions as a civil rights attorney and instructor at Wellburgh university in order to pursue a year-long social justice project. During this time, I will be partnering with Dr. Mason to create a legal advocacy program for at-risk populations who are unfairly targeted for punitive civil and other non-criminal legal actions. We will specifically focus on eviction actions and unfair employment actions. 

I am pursuing this, because my final research project as a law student at Wellburgh showed that minorities, members of the LGBTQ community, single parents, and the disabled are often targeted by punitive and retaliatory legal action by employers, landlords, and other entities. These actions are often taken after the target has taken some action to report illegal behavior or protect their rights. This project will establish a legal advocacy program to help those who are impacted respond to such actions.

My intention is to use the funds provided to cover my expenses during this undertaking. However, I will supplement any rewards received with a small monthly stipend I receive for teaching two undergraduate courses.

I have attached my CV, two letters of recommendation, and a more detailed description of this project. Please contact me with any questions. 

Thank you for considering me for this tremendous opportunity.

Regards, Elaine Ninja

Fellowship Cover Letter Writing Tips

It’s no secret that academic jobs and fellowships in particular are highly competitive. Nature Magazine reports that most early-career researchers need to file at least 15 applications to land a single offer. Moreover, job seekers who submit more applications end up getting a higher number of on-site interviews. What this data means for you is that you’d have to get a good dozen of customized cover letters ready. Below are several actionable tips to help you churn out those sample fellowship cover letters with high confidence! 

Review The Requirements

While many grants and scholarships are intended for a wide range of students, that’s not the case with a fellowship. These are often rewarded to students or other academic professionals who are pursuing very specific academic or research goals. In the case of the example above, the applicant is conducting a project with the support of their university and employer. 

The best way to be sure you qualify is to read the materials associated with the fellowship and get to know the purpose of the organization offering the award. This way you only go after options that you have a high chance of receiving.

Be Detailed-Oriented

Your CV and transcripts will only show what you have done so far. You are pursuing the fellowship to achieve future goals. This is your chance to introduce these goals and explain your intentions. Thus your letter should contain enough detail to help the reader fully understand your plans and concrete steps you intend to take to lead the project to successful completion. 

Write as a Colleague, Not a Student

If you are applying for a fellowship, you are a degreed professional. Chances are you work in the field and may be in charge of undergraduate students in your department even if you are just a postdoctoral employee . You have established your competence in your academic discipline and should write your cover letter accordingly. Be confident in the value of your research and academic pursuits. Refer to yourself using proper titles. Show respect and gratitude for consideration, but don’t fawn. Avoid seeming as if you are asking for permission to pursue your planned course of action.

Final Tip: Show a Community Benefit

While there is nothing wrong with pursuing graduate education for career purposes, consider the perspective of the selection committee. In many cases, this group consists of individuals with a stake in your field, the university, and the community at large. They want to know that funding you is something that will be worthwhile to them and their goals. Use your letter to show how your education or research will be helpful to your school, local community, or your colleagues.

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3 Tips for Writing a Stellar Cover Letter for Jobs and Fellowships

By Dawn Angellica Barcelona

Knowing how to write a solid cover letter is an essential part of many application processes, whether for a job, fellowship , grant application, or journal publication. A cover letter should convey to the hiring team or selection committee why you’re a great candidate for the organization or why your project should receive support or funding. Generally, a cover letter will be paired with another piece of an application. For job applications, cover letters are sent with your resume. For journal publication, your cover letter should accompany a writing sample. For a fellowship, your cover letter will be sent with your application materials such as personal statements or project proposals . 

Whereas a resume shows a selection committee or hiring team your skills, accomplishments, and career trajectory, a cover letter is a chance to showcase the story behind your achievements and give the reader a sense of your personality. Think of your cover letter as an introduction to yourself. 

1. Preparing to Write a Cover Letter

Before writing a cover letter, spend time doing the following:

• Find a particular fellowship or job description you’d like to apply to.  Having an end goal will help you write your cover letter. 
• Tailor your resume or CV to the job or fellowship you’re interested in pursuing. 
• Do research on the organization or company you’re looking to join on their website or through blogs/articles about the organization.

Be able to answer the following:

• What does this organization do? What is its mission? 
• What examples of projects and initiatives do they have? 
• Why is this position open? What do they hope they will accomplish by hiring someone in this role or granting someone this fellowship? 
• Who is on the selection or hiring committee? 

2. How to Structure Your Cover Letter

If you’re not sure where to start with your cover letter, this structure can be a good place to start:

Header: This should include your full name, email address, and date of the letter. 

Greeting: Who are you addressing the letter to? Be specific if possible. 

First Paragraph: Use your first paragraph to introduce yourself, the role you’re applying for, and how you first came into contact with the organization or why the role resonates with you. Perhaps you have used the company’s products before or heard about the fellowship from a career fair. This is a good place to show enthusiasm!

Second Paragraph: This second paragraph should include a brief overview of your background as it specifically relates to the position. Include one or two specific details about a key achievement that is uniquely positioned to make you stand out. Choose experiences from your most recent roles when possible. 

Third Paragraph: The third and final body paragraph in your cover letter can include another key achievement or you can relay a story that further illustrates your alignment with the role. 

Sign Off : End your cover letter thanking the selection committee for taking the time to consider your application and choose a simple closing greeting such as “Sincerely” before including your full name again. 

3. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

A good cover letter excites the selection committee, but a cover letter with errors and mistakes can make a negative impression. Try to avoid these common mistakes. 

Not addressing your cover letter to the appropriate person. When I review resumes, I see a common error where candidates will recycle their cover letters for multiple companies but forget to change the addressee. In some job descriptions, you might see details such as “this candidate will report directly to the CEO” that will help you personalize your cover letter. Look up the CEO’s name on the organization’s website and address your cover letter to them – they will likely be involved in your hiring process. You might not have as easy of a time figuring out who will be reviewing your application – in that case, you can write something like “Dear Fulbright Selection Committee” or “Dear (Company Name) Hiring Team” to be safe. 

Not writing succinctly. Hiring and selection committees are often pressed for time and under deadlines and other work responsibilities, so ensure that your cover letter is brief. It should be no more than 3 paragraphs with no more than 3-4 sentences each. A dense-looking letter can cause the reader to skim what you wrote, which in effect makes your cover letter less persuasive. Make it easy on the selection committee and keep things short and simple.

Reiterating your resume verbatim. A resume is an objective list of your work experience, education, accomplishments, and relevant certifications, awards, or patents. A cover letter is a place to explain the value of your achievements and why your experience will make you a successful member of the organization. Avoid writing anything in your cover letter that can be read on a resume. 

Once you are finished with a draft of your cover letter, take extra time to make sure there are no spelling errors or grammatical mistakes. You can ask a friend or an adviser to help you proofread. Reading your letter out loud can also be useful – if you are stumbling over any of your phrasings, this will tell you that you might need to simplify or clarify that sentence. When you feel like your cover letter and resume are ready to go, make sure to save your document as a PDF in order to retain your formatting before submitting your application. 

While you’re waiting to hear back from jobs or fellowships, be sure to balance both self-care and interview preparation ! Best wishes for your next adventure.

If you enjoyed this article, you may want to check out Dawn’s other articles on ProFellow, including Recruiter Tips: How to Write An Effective One-Page Resume .

© 2023 ProFellow, LLC all rights reserved.

Related Posts:

• 3 Things You Need to Maximize Your Hiring Potential Post-Undergrad
• How to Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter for Any Opportunity 
• #8: Get a Great Recommendation Letter, Part 1
• What Should I Ask to be Included in My Letter of Recommendation?
• #8: Get a Great Recommendation Letter, Part 2

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• Scholarship

Scholarship cover letter example

The Yale approach to persuasion

You have to write a cover letter as part of your scholarship application. What’s your first question? Something like: How do I write a great cover letter for a scholarship? Good question! A cover letter, also called a letter of motivation, is highly valuable when it comes to awarding scholarships. Before an organization will cut you a check, they want to be sure that you’re a motivated, engaged and forward-thinking student who is worth the investment. While job applicants usually have the benefit of an accompanying resume, a student might not have the advantage of a lengthy work history. So in this case, your cover letter often weighs more than your resume when it comes time to distribute the funds.

Scholarships are not just about paying down tuition costs. Many of the organizations, clubs and community members who offer them are truly interested in getting to know their scholarship recipients and following them along through their educational journey. A scholarship may even lead to new connections, mentorship opportunities, internships and post-graduation job offers. In other words, a knock-out cover letter is worth the effort. This guide, along with an effective cover-letter example will:

• Explain the purpose and unique qualities of a scholarship cover letter
• Outline the best structure for the letter and offer practical writing tips
• Delve into the psychological principles of effective persuasion
• Examine the importance of correct formatting and how to achieve it.

P.S. – If you’re still working on getting your resume just right, resume.io’s free resources can save you time in creating the perfect resume. Start with our profession-specific examples , templates and general resume writing guide .

Best format for a scholarship cover letter

The structure of a cover letter for a scholarship application follows much the same outline as any other type of application letter and includes these sections:

• The cover letter header
• The greeting
• The introduction
• The letter body
• The conclusion
• The signature.

Let’s dive into each one.

Cover letter header

Many students and recent graduates struggle with determining exactly what should go in the cover letter header. The thing to remember is that the header serves an important role in identifying the document and giving it an aesthetically-pleasing formatting. 

Believe it or not, some scholarships will still ask you to send in your application materials via mail. In that case, your header should include the name and address of the scholarship organization and/or contact person as well as the date. This formal letter heading is not necessary when applying online or emailing your cover letter. In that situation, you may opt to include just your name, phone number and other contact information plus the name of the organization.

The goal of this section: Identify the document, keep your name and contact info easily accessible and create visually appealing formatting.

Cover letter greeting

This short section can trip up a lot of students who aren’t sure which tone to take. A scholarship application is a request, usually of someone in a more senior position than yourself. You’ll want to take a respectful tone without seeming too formal, thus “Dear” is usually the best option and our cover letter sample goes that route. Scholarships are usually pretty upfront about who handles the selection process. Oftentimes, it’s a committee. “Dear Scripps Howard Foundation Scholarship Committee,” will do the trick. Or you might include the name of the chairperson and the committee as well: “Dear Dr. Batts and CCAP Scholarship Committee,”

Watch out for the name game!

Addressing your letter to a real, specific person or the committee is one of the best ways to get things started on a positive note. For a scholarship cover letter, however, this takes on additional importance. Committees often consider a misspelling or a generic greeting like “ To Whom it May Concern :” as a sign that the student was not careful enough to include the names given to them. Make sure to check and double check that you have everything spelled correctly and have used the proper salutations like Mr., Mrs., Ms. or Dr.

The goal of this section: Use the right tone when greeting the reader or the committee and make sure you’ve included the correctly spelled name of the person or organization.

Dear Professor Huddleston,

Cover letter introduction

Your introduction is the first chance for the scholarship committee members to get to know you. When applying for a scholarship, it’s important to get this initial paragraph right. You want to come across as respectful, but also enthusiastic and passionate about the field or program you’re entering. A charismatic opening that conveys character and personality is a good way to hit it off. You might choose to start with a tasteful (mind the boundaries of propriety!) personal anecdote or a bit of background information, but just remember that the majority of the other candidates are also students, probably in the same field or major as you. Show off what makes you stand apart! 

Don’t neglect to explain exactly the scholarship you are applying for if the organization offers more than one and tell why you are looking for funding.  The sentence below from our cover letter example explains what the applicant will use the money for.

As I approach the dissertation year of my MA in Arabic at the UCLA Department of Near Eastern Languages and Cultures (NELC), I am writing to inquire about participating in the annual fellowship program. Much of my work has been based at the university, but the demands of my dissertation entail a significant amount of travel and expense.

The goal of this section: Capture the reader’s attention with a snappy sentence that introduces yourself in an interesting and exciting way.

Cover letter middle part (body)  

The cover letter body is where you can really get into your strongest qualities and skills. Start off by explaining your goals or what you plan to do with the education or funding you receive. Remember, each sentence should add evidence to the argument that you are the best candidate for this financial investment. 

Committees often appreciate personal stories, but they should be related to your career or educational goals. Keep your sincere stories/statements concise so that the reader doesn’t lose the message. Make sure you are answering any questions asked in the application directions. 

How long should my cover letter be?

Unless the scholarship application specifies a word count, it’s best to keep your letter to between 200 and 400 words – or one page. Students are often tempted to over compensate for thin resumes by writing expansive, multi-page cover letters that cover every imaginable area of the applicant’s life. However, it’s a much smarter idea to keep your letter focused and concise enough for a single page.

The goal of this cover letter body: Create your own narrative using personal stories/statements, facts and evidence of your hard work and determination, align yourself with the mission of the organization or scholarship.

I have been self-funding my current studies with part-time interpreting and translation work. I do not come from a privileged background and my parents give all that they can, but the costs of a dissertation that involves interpreting and observing at over 40 international conferences in one year are monumental. My dissertation on the “Cultural Considerations in English-Arabic Simultaneous Translation” seeks to provide a new perspective on what lies behind the language, but it cannot be written from inside a library. I have already contributed much to my UCLA faculty, including curating the Persian section of the Language Materials Project and running events for the Near Eastern business community in Los Angeles. I worked on the Arabic section of a successful translation app and have published a number of well-reviewed academic papers on Arabic linguistics. My career aim is to become an interpreter at the United Nations in New York. I have a month’s work experience lined up there at the end of this academic year and see it as the perfect start for my dissertation year. I want to bring the 300 million Arabic speakers that bit closer to the rest of the world. That can only happen with a thoughtful interpretation of both their words and their cultural background.

How to close a scholarship cover letter (conclusion and sign-off)

So you’ve laid out your personal story, skills and experiences, now what? Creating a positive closing paragraph. Ending on a positive note is important, but there’s one more thing you can do to seal the deal. A call to action invites the committee to contact you and shows that you are enthusiastic about their support. Our cover letter example conclusion below accomplishes both of these goals.

The fellowship would allow me access to the leading experts in the field and I would have an opportunity to practice my specialty at the most important events. I would welcome a meeting to discuss my application in more detail and hope for your assistance in this matter.

Sincerely, Simon Travers.

Drive home the point by using a thankful and sincere tone to show the committee you are worthy of their investment. “Best regards” or “Sincerely” can work well. A “Thank you for considering me for your scholarship” can’t hurt. 

The goal of this section: Leave the reader on an upbeat note and invite them to contact you, convey gratitude and enthusiasm for their support.

Writing psychology – cover letter tools and strategies

As a potential scholarship recipient, there are a few key qualities you want to convey:

• Work ethic and motivation: use completed projects or internships to show that you’re a hard worker who has a bright future.
• Sincerity: no one wants to give their money to an arrogant candidate. Your tone should convey humility and gratefulness for opportunities and support.
• Passion: this is one of the most fundamental characteristics a committee is looking for. Do you love what you’re studying? Has this been a dream of yours for a long time? Use examples that explain why you’re the perfect fit for this profession.
• Individuality: scholarships are highly competitive and you’re likely up against people who have the same educational background as you. That’s why highlighting what makes you stand out is the best way to tip the scale in your favor.

The Yale Attitude Change Approach is a long-term study on the effects of persuasive communication. The study covers numerous principles, including the ways in which audiences perceive speakers and their messages. The study has found that people can easily sense when a speaker is trying to persuade them and it causes them to take a negative view of both the message and communicator. Thus it is important for the speaker to first develop credibility with their audience. The more trustworthy the audience finds the speaker, the more receptive they are to the message. 

Focus on building your trustworthiness in the eyes of the reader by explaining the projects you took on and how those developed you into the student and person you are today. No scholarship committee wants to feel like you’re pleading and begging for their money. Rather, they want to feel like they’ve just had a stimulating conversation with a bright and motivated young person who will succeed because of hard work and determination.  

This overall guide on cover letters can offer more detail on each of these requirements. You can also make sure the formatting is appropriate and professional by using a template, like these from resume.io.

Some students are afraid to apply for scholarships because they don’t believe they are impressive enough to beat out the other candidates. While it’s true that some scholarships can be very competitive (about 12 percent of all undergrads depend on this type of aid), there’s plenty of options that only require you to be yourself. Some of the most notable: scholarships for avid coffee drinkers, glasses wearers, people with curly hair and people who are unusually tall. What’s more, about 100 million dollars in scholarships goes unclaimed every year – you can’t win if you don’t try!

Scholarship cover letter format and common mistakes

Spelling and grammar. Students are often in a rush, juggling classes, clubs and activities and so they wait until the last minute to write and submit cover letters. Unfortunately, simple spelling mistakes can weigh heavily against an applicant in the scholarship selection process. Make sure to proofread reread your letter closely before submitting, and/or ask a friend to double check it for you.

• Too much emotional information. Scholarship committees often appreciate moving personal stories. Unfortunately, the balance between emotional writing and a sob story can be hard to navigate. Instead of complaining about life’s unfairness, make sure to take a confident approach that explains how you persevered in spite of the obstacles.
• Finding the right tone. Students often understand that their cover letter will be read by wealthy or influential people. In response, they take an overly formal tone both in the greeting and In the body of the letter. There’s no need to brag, but make sure to express yourself assertively – you are worthy of this scholarship!
• Using proper formatting. Messy or unconventional formatting will leave a reader confused before they even start the first paragraph. Make sure to follow traditional font style and size recommendations. You can create a more attractive document by using a professionally-designed cover letter template.

What makes a scholarship cover letter unique?

There are a few key differences between a scholarship application letter for a scholarship for a high school or college student and one that a job applicant might use. The first is that a job applicant is looking to fill a specific vacancy for an employer. In their cover letter, they will often talk about why they are a good fit for the role and how their previous experiences have demonstrated the same skillset. A scholarship applicant isn’t being asked to do a job so the letter is much less focused on tasks and hard skills than it is on personality traits, extracurricular activities and career goals. Scholarship programs are also far more interested in the candidate’s personal experience and may sometimes even ask about their financial background. 

While a scholarship applicant might not have a job posting to refer to, one piece of information they can use to their advantage is the organization’s mission statement or primary activities. If, for example, the association is geared toward advancing the contributions of black women in science, an applicant might talk about her love of math from an early age and her current internship at a medical research center. She might also include personal motivations and experiences, like challenges she faced after entering a mostly male-dominated profession. 

Key takeaways

• When it comes to winning a scholarship, a convincing cover letter can sometimes be more important than your resume. Make sure to put proper time and attention into crafting your cover letter.
• Unlike other types of application letters, scholarship cover letters often tell the story of an applicant’s personal life. It’s OK to use emotion, just don’t get too sappy.
• Make sure your spelling and grammar are spot-on, especially when it comes to the names of the chairperson and organization. Committees notice who took the time to address them properly.
• Use a psychological approach when it comes to persuasion by being assertive without being brash or arrogant.
• An audience notices the way you choose to present your message. Make sure your formatting is correct and meets professional standards.

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Application Advice

Academic cover letter samples.

Read a summary or generate practice questions using the INOMICS AI tool

When applying for an academic position as a researcher, lecturer, or for a fellowship, a cover letter is usually required to accompany your CV or resume . Stating your particular interest in the role, and showing how your academic and work experience enables you to excel at the job, is the aim of a successful cover letter. They can be one of the most important parts of your application, giving the recipient an idea of who you are and what your relevant expertise is. Essentially, it's the first impression an institution will have of you, so it's important to get it right.

For those planning a PhD in economics, check out our Sample Motivation Letter   for some specific guidance as to how to get yourself prepared. For others applying for a research role, teaching role, or for a fellowship – stick around. The following are a collection of sample cover letter templates that you can use as a basis for your own. Yep, we got you covered! 

Sample cover letter for a research position

I am writing to apply for the postdoctoral position in marine biology in the Department of Life Sciences. Having recently completed my PhD in biology, I am excited for the opportunity to join the world-renowned research team at the University of Leipzig.

My primary research interests are migration behaviors in marine creatures, and in my current research I use methods including statistical modeling and field observations. My aim is for my research to form a bridge between modeling and field work approaches. I am therefore particularly attracted to the University of Leipzig as a department which values research using a wide range of methodologies, and which offers the chance for collaboration with colleagues in other life sciences fields.

Working in research in both Germany and abroad has given me a network of potential collaborators and experience in international projects. I have found bringing together researchers from different fields to be particularly beneficial, and my interdisciplinary background has provided me with effective communication skills across a diverse range of groups. I am keen to continue collaborating with researchers from other disciplines in order to better understand complex issues.

Furthermore, I have experience with the supervision of Bachelor's students, and with teaching undergraduate courses such as An Introduction to Oceanography, for which I received excellent feedback. I find the nurturing of students in order to realize their best potential to be a greatly rewarding aspect of teaching work and I am thus interested in taking on teaching work as well as research.

I have three publications pending from my doctoral project, covering a broad range of scholarly interests. These papers are currently in the submission process for high-ranked peer-reviewed journals.

I wish to acquire third-party funding to support my research in the future, and to that end I am preparing applications for the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation) fellowship and the Sir Henry Wellcome Postdoctoral Fellowship. As a member of the committees which applied for extensions of funding from the German research foundation for both my graduate school and my university institution, I have experience with large-scale funding applications, both of which were successful in securing further funding.

I am enthusiastic about the possibility of working at the University of Leipzig. I thank you for your consideration and look forward to hearing from you.

Sample cover letter for a teaching position

I am applying for the role of lecturer in psychology at the University of Hamburg. I completed a PhD on the topic of how stressful life events affect decision making at University College London. Since then I have been working in a postdoctoral role in the neurology department at the Charité Hospital Berlin. The primary topics I teach are neuropsychology, rehabilitation after brain injury, and the social impact of stress, and I have additional teaching experience in the field of neuroscience.

My teaching philosophy is to promote independent thought and critical reasoning skills in my students by encouraging them to discuss and debate. For example, in my Neural Decision Making course, each student is required to learn a topic and present it briefly to the other students once per lesson. This not only challenges the presenting student to convey the material accurately and concisely, but also aids the understanding of the other students in the class. Similarly, three times per semester I organize debate classes in which the class is split into groups which must defend a contested position in the field. Encouraging students to consider perspectives which are contentious and with which they may not agree challenges them to think beyond their current knowledge and to explore alternative perspectives.

This teaching style has been successful in engaging students and holding their interest. I am happy to have received strong positive feedback from students on my teaching, and one of my classes was selected by the student newspaper as a top ten course at my previous university. I also have experience co-supervising students in Bachelor's and Master’s psychology programs, from which I gained skills in project management and supporting students academically.

My current research is on the relationship between priming and decision making, examining the degree to which value assessments are influenced by non-verbal primes. I have five publications on this topic, each published in high-impact journals. I am keen to continue this research at the University of Hamburg, given its expertise in decision making and its strong neuroscience community.

I enjoy supporting students from diverse backgrounds and those who have followed non-traditional career paths. I believe that the strength of a discipline comes from hearing a wide range of viewpoints. I am excited to pass the experience I have received on to other students who are supporting themselves through work while studying, who may have family commitments, or come from a non-traditional academic background. The possibility of teaching Bachelor's and graduate students and continuing my research at the University of Hamburg is something I am enthusiastic about. Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to hearing from you.

Sample cover letter for a fellowship

In response to your advertised opportunity for a fellowship in experimental psychology from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, I am writing to you to express my interest in this fellowship.

My PhD research included paradigms from experimental psychology alongside innovative interview techniques for assessing personality disorder traits. I believe combining knowledge from disparate disciplines can be uniquely effective in building new models for understanding complex phenomena such as mental disorders. I am therefore particularly attracted to the Alexander von Humboldt foundation as an organization which promotes interdisciplinary, unusual and innovative approaches to research.

I have a truly interdisciplinary background, having studied psychiatry and neurology as well as psychology. I currently hold a postdoctoral scholarship at the University of Munich, where I perform research into the assessment and classification of personality disorders. Having worked with a broad range of methods including interviews, reaction time measures, subliminal stimuli detection, and theoretical work. I have been in frequent contact with both clinicians and empirical scientists, and I have experience in presenting to and learning from experts from a wide variety of specialties within psychology. For example, I co-organized the Constructs of Personality Disorders conferences in 2018 which included psychologists, philosophers and psychiatrists as part of an interdisciplinary working group.

My recent research has focused on using interview methods to categorize and classify the rates of personal disorder symptoms within the general population. Having found evidence of higher-than-expected rates of symptoms within certain groups, particularly younger people, I was inspired to design further experiments to investigate this intriguing result. My background in both psychology and psychiatry makes me ideally suited to this work. I am confident in my abilities to design and run experimental projects, having worked independently throughout my PhD on a project of my own design. I also demonstrated an ability to run projects and maintain strict deadlines by completing both my PhD and three manuscripts for papers within 36 months.

Thank you for considering me. I am excited for this opportunity to undertake a fellowship with the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation and I look forward to hearing from you.

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How to write a cover letter for a fellowship.

Graduate and postgraduate students often must pursue a fellowship for financial support to conduct their research or to complete training or internships necessary for school and their career. A cover letter is typically the first thing the recipient reads in your fellowship application, so it needs to be convincing and well-written.

Start a new document on your computer and choose a cover letter template if one is available. Make a header that includes your name (in larger and bolder font), followed by your address, phone number, email address and website (if applicable).

Type a formal salutation that addresses the recipient by name. This may mean you have to do extra research to find out who will be considering your letter and application. It is considered bad form to open a cover letter with a generic salutation, and your goal is to establish a personal connection with the individual who will be deciding on whether or not to grant your fellowship.

Type two to three sentences for the first paragraph to explain who you are, which university or organization you are a student or member of and what type of fellowship you are applying for.

Type five to seven sentences as your middle paragraph. This section should explain the work your or your organization is performing, its purpose and its benefits, and a short history of the work you have accomplished so far. In a polite but direct tone, provide a budget estimate of how much you will need granted in your fellowship to cover program costs as well as living expenses. Also provide information about your living situation, including housing, transportation and location. Explain that a more thorough summary of your project is contained in your fellowship proposal.

Type two to four sentences as your closing paragraph. Indicate that your resume (if required) and fellowship proposal are enclosed, and specify the method with which you would prefer to be contacted to discuss the opportunity further. Thank the recipient for his consideration and time.

• Be clear in explaining your needs, but in a polite tone that cannot be taken as desperate. It is important that your fellowship cover letter convince the recipient of your responsibility and professionalism.

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Kara Page has been a freelance writer and editor since 2007. She maintains several blogs on travel, music, food and more. She is also a contributing writer for Suite101 and has articles published on eHow and Answerbag. Page holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of North Texas.

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• Cover Letters

10 Cover Letter Tips for Residents and Fellows

Thanks to the digital revolution, the way we search for jobs has changed drastically over the years, and that’s good news for residents and fellows. But one crucial element of job-hunting has not changed, and that’s the need for a well-written, engaging cover letter that grabs the attention of the person reading it.

Whether you’re working with a recruiter or contacting employers directly, your cover letter—electronic or printed—can mean the difference between scoring an interview or being promptly relegated to the “no way” pile.

Here are some of our favorite tips for writing a healthcare cover letter that helps you stand out (in a good way).

1. Address Your Cover Letter to a Real Person

Take the time to find out the name of the healthcare recruiter or hiring manager who will be reading your letter.

You might do this by tapping into your network, searching by the email address (if one is provided), or contacting the organization directly. Never address your letter “To whom it may concern.”

2. Watch the Length

Respect the time of the hiring manager by keeping your cover letter short. A well-written, direct, and concise letter of a few paragraphs is ideal. A cover letter should never be more than a page long.

3. Write a Personalized Cover Letter for Each Job Application

Your cover letter should demonstrate your unique interest in the position, so make sure you craft a personalized letter for each posting.

How has your experience as a medical student, resident, and/or fellow helped prepare you for this specific role? Show how your qualifications align with their job requirements.

4. Do Your Research

Conduct research about the hospital or medical practice by talking to your network, looking in the news or press releases section of their website, and browsing their social media accounts.

Learn about recent developments within the organization and include that in the cover letter if it’s relevant. This is an ideal way to convey to the hiring manager that you’re familiar with their mission, values, and culture.

5. Tell a Story

Your story should be something that makes you stand out. If you’re seeking your first job after your residency or fellowship, you can discuss things like what inspired you to become a doctor or why you’re passionate about your specialty.

You could also share a story about an important challenge or achievement in medical school, your residency, or your fellowship, particularly as it relates to the position you’re applying for.

6. Don’t Mention Salary

Unless the job posting specifically asks you to reveal your salary or benefits requirements in the letter, don’t bring it up at all—yet. With physician unemployment so low and healthcare recruiters struggling to find qualified candidates to fill positions, you’ll want to keep your options open, if possible, and wait until the salary negotiation stage.

7. Market Yourself as a Long-Term Employee

As the healthcare industry begins to shift toward value-based care, employers are looking for team members who are committed to their long-term goals and growth. So unless you’re seeking a locum tenens job, you’ll want to show your desire to stick around.

One way to do this is by highlighting your desire to be in that particular city, state, or region. If you have family nearby or grew up in the area, make sure to mention that—it can help them understand your commitment to the job and the community.

8. Enhance or Clarify Your Resume or CV—Don’t Repeat It

Your cover letter is an opportunity to showcase who you are beyond the details of your CV. It shouldn’t be an exhaustive, play-by-play summary of the information that’s already in that document.

Use your cover letter to highlight skills that you would bring to the role, such as empathy, communication, and leadership. Share details about relevant knowledge you acquired during your residency or fellowship, such as proficiency in billing and coding. And if you have gaps in your education or work history, you can explain those in your cover letter.

9. Proofread … and Proofread Again

Simple typos are unprofessional, so read it over several times, then ask someone you trust to be a second set of eyes. A colleague, mentor, or program director can be an excellent resource for proofreading and providing feedback.

10. Always Include a Cover Letter

Even if it’s not required, always send a cover letter or note with your application materials. It can help set you apart from the mass of other residents or fellows applying for the position. It’s a chance to showcase your communication skills, attention to detail, and enthusiasm for the role.

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Physician Cover Letters: Why Writing a Good One Is As Important As Ever

Career resources content posted on NEJM CareerCenter is produced by freelance health care writers as an advertising service of NEJM Group, a division of the Massachusetts Medical Society and should not be construed as coming from, or representing the views of, the New England Journal of Medicine , NEJM Group, or the Massachusetts Medical Society

Physicians seeking a practice opportunity might think of the cover letter as an old-fashioned, generally unimportant component of their application for or expression of interest in a position, but that is not the case. In this digital age of clipped, often rapid-fire communications, the cover letter has become more important than ever because it offers a way to differentiate the physician from other candidates. It provides a vehicle for sharing personal and professional information that might be important to prospective employers but doesn’t quite fit in the CV. The cover letter should be brief, well written, professional and positive in tone, and absolutely error-free. It should also give the recipient the sense that the physician has researched the opportunity or organization before writing the letter.

By Bonnie Darves

When a physician encounters the seemingly perfect practice opportunity — with a mid-sized group in their hometown that is affiliated with a health system that has an excellent reputation — it’s tempting to quickly compose the requested cover letter to accompany her CV and send it off.

Yes, it is smart to express interest in a desirable position as soon as possible, but it’s not prudent to view the cover letter as a mere formality. Today, when so much communication between physicians and recruiters or prospective employers is electronic — in either brief email responses or via online forms — the cover letter has become increasingly important. Here’s why: The carefully crafted letter offers an opportunity to differentiate the resident or fellow from other physicians who respond, and a chance to demonstrate highly personalized interest in the position.

“The cover letter’s value is certainly not decreasing in the digital age. Because it is usually the second contact physicians have with an organization, it is very important,” said James Tysinger, PhD, vice chair for professional development in the University of Texas Health Science Center department of family and community medicine in San Antonio. “It is your opportunity to include something about who you are, and to provide information that won’t be in your CV about why the position and the geographic location interest you.” For the resident seeking a fellowship, the letter is the ideal vehicle to convey to the program director that the physician has researched the program’s focus and reputation, he added.

Longtime recruiter Regina Levison, president of the national firm Levison Search Associates, agrees that the geographic preference statement is a vital piece of information that should appear early in the letter. “The geographic ‘connection’ to the opportunity’s location is the most important message you can include — whether it’s because you grew up there, have relatives in the region, or simply have always dreamed of living or working there,” Ms. Levison said. “Health care organizations today are not just recruiting to fill a specific opportunity; they are recruiting for retention.” As the health care delivery system changes to incorporate accountable care organizations and quality focused reimbursement, organizations are seeking physicians who will “stay around” to help meet long-term organizational objectives.

Craig Fowler, president of the National Association of Physician Recruiters (NAPR), and vice president of recruiting and training for Pinnacle Health Group in Atlanta, urges residents to include at least an introductory cover letter or note with their CV, even when it’s not requested. In his experience, 8 out of 10 physicians who express initial interest in a position don’t take the effort to write a letter unless asked.

“The cover letter really is a differentiator, and even though a recruiter will always look at your CV first, the letter is nice to have. I often feel that it gives me a sense of the physician — a good letter can make the physician come to life,” Mr. Fowler said. He enjoys, for example, learning about the physician’s personal interests and family, in addition to what he seeks in a practice opportunity.

Peter Cebulka, director of recruiting development for the national firm Merritt Hawkins, agrees that the cover letter can provide information that isn’t appropriate in a CV but could be important to a hiring organization. “The letter gives you a chance to talk about your professional goals, or why you’re committed to a particular area or practice setting,” Mr. Cebulka said. It can also highlight something compelling about the physician’s residency program that the recipient might not know.

If there are gaps in the CV that are not sensitive in nature, and therefore don’t require a phone conversation, that information should be included in the letter. “It’s important to briefly explain gaps because your application might be passed over if you don’t,” Mr. Fowler said.

Jim Stone, co-founder and president of The Medicus Firm, a national physician search company, offers helpful guidance on incorporating a career objective in the cover letter. “You may want to include a career objective or job search goals, but be careful not to be too specific or you may rule yourself out of consideration,” he advised. “Therefore, if there is one goal that really sums up your search, or some objective that is a must-have for you under any circumstances, it would be okay to include that.”

On another note, Mr. Stone urges physicians to include brief examples of any soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, technological aptitude, leadership, or problem solving.

Format and structure: short and targeted works While there are no rules per se about a cover letter’s length or content, there are general guidelines for what works best and is likely to be well received. (See “Cover letters: What to do, what to avoid” section at the end of this article.) Dr. Tysinger, who counsels residents and practicing physicians on preparing CVs and cover letters, and frequently presents on the topic, recommends a single-page, three-paragraph format delivered in a professional, business letter layout, in simple language. Following is his basic guidance on the letter’s structure:

• First paragraph: Introduce yourself and state why you are writing — whether that is to be considered for a specific position, to express general interest in joining the organization, or the recommendation of a colleague.
• Second paragraph: Provide brief details about yourself and why you are interested in the opportunity and the location. Note any professional connections to the opportunity or organization, and any special skills or interests, such as management or teaching.
• Third paragraph: Thank the recipient for the opportunity to apply and for reviewing your CV, and end the letter with a statement indicating that you look forward to hearing from the recipient soon.

Other sources agreed that cover letters should not exceed one page, unless special circumstances dictate an extra paragraph or two. In that case, a two-page letter is acceptable. Ms. Levison advised briefly summarizing education and training in the second paragraph, and if it’s the physician’s first opportunity search, stating briefly why he became a physician.

It’s best to avoid going into extensive detail about personal interests or extracurricular pursuits. That could give the recipient the impression that the physician is more concerned about lifestyle than medical practice.

Professional tone, error-free content are musts It should go without saying that the cover letter must be professionally written and free of spelling or grammatical errors, but unfortunately, that’s not always the case. All of the recruiters interviewed for this article have received cover letters that are poorly written or, in some cases, replete with misspellings; all agreed that an error-riddled letter could prevent its writer from being considered for an opportunity regardless of her or his qualifications.

Of course, word processing programs include spell-checkers and, usually, some grammar-checking functionality. That’s helpful, but it isn’t sufficient vetting to ensure the letter is in excellent shape. Because of the letter’s potential importance, physicians should have several trusted individuals — on the professional and personal side — review the document, including a professional editor, if warranted. “If writing isn’t your strong suit, or English isn’t your first language, do get professional advice before you finalize the letter,” Mr. Cebulka recommends.

Ms. Levinson offers pointed advice regarding double-checking for errors. “Are there any typos or mistakes that would make the new organization question your ability to keep accurate records?” she said. It’s worth noting that some recruiting firms offer assistance with cover letter writing, but it’s best not to count on that service.

Striking the right tone in the cover letter can be somewhat challenging when the resident doesn’t have a good sense of the organization offering the opportunity. Some hospitals or groups are very formal, and therefore expect to receive formal communication. Others might be somewhat casual, from the standpoint of their culture, and therefore less inclined to bring in a physician who comes across as stiff, even if she isn’t. For these reasons, it’s smart to research the hiring entity to the extent possible before finishing the letter. The group’s website or the health system’s physician portal are good starting places to gauge the culture, but a discussion with a physician who practices there, happily, also can be helpful.

Ideally, the letter’s tone should be professional but friendly, and should sound like its writer, and not like a cookie-cutter form letter. “The letter should be professional and warm, and the tone should also reflect how you would communicate with patients and staff,” Ms. Levison said.

“A little colloquialism is OK, if it shows your personality,” Mr. Fowler maintains, provided the overall tone remains professional.

The sources concurred that the cover letter is not the forum for including a laundry list of the physician’s position parameters, or for negotiating compensation or other potential contract terms. Physicians in a highly recruited specialty might mention required equipment or infrastructure, if the lack of those items would preclude further discussion. But for the most part, those specifics should be left for an on-site interview.

“If the parameter is a potential deal-breaker, you can mention it, but avoid sounding inflexible,” Mr. Cebulka advised. That means not setting limits on the amount of call, or number of night shifts or weekends, for example. Those details can be discussed and possibly negotiated later.

Very important parameters should, however, be provided to the recruiter outside the context of the cover letter if such detail is requested. That’s especially important if the recruiter will introduce the physician to multiple opportunities.

“If you’re in a highly recruited specialty, there will be plenty of opportunities. But it’s helpful for recruiters to know what you’re absolutely looking for, so that you don’t waste your time or theirs,” Mr. Cebulka said.

Cover letters: What to do, what to avoid The sources who contributed to this article offered these additional tips on what physicians should do, or not do, when they craft their cover letters.

• Address the cover letter to an individual physician, practice administrator, recruiter, or other individual as the situation warrants, and not “to whom it may concern.”
• Be upbeat and positive. Ensure that the letter’s tone reflects your excitement about medicine, and that it reflects the way you would speak in an in-person interview.
• Include letters of reference with the cover letter if you’re looking for a fellowship or are formally applying for a specific position.
• Close the letter with a call to action if it’s an ideal opportunity (and likely a popular one). Let the recipient know that you will call in a few days to follow up, and indicate when you would be available to meet in person. It doesn’t hurt to state the best ways to reach you.
• Don’t sound desperate or beg for the job, even if it’s the perfect opportunity or you are worried about securing a position.
• Steer clear of “selling” yourself or making claims about why you would be the absolute best candidate. Instead, let your credentials and references make the case for you.
• Avoid sarcasm in any context, and generally steer clear of humor, unless you know the person to whom the letter is addressed very well.
• Don’t disparage individuals, programs, or institutions if you have had a negative experience somewhere — regardless of the reason.

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More From Forbes

I've read more than 300 cover letters, and this is how i decide if they're good or bad within three minutes.

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I’ve read a lot of cover letters throughout my career. When I was a fellowship program manager, I reviewed them in consideration for more than 60 open positions each year. So I saw it all—the good, the bad and the standout examples that I can still remember.

As a result, I’ve become the go-to friend when people need feedback on their job applications. Based on my own experience putting people in the “yes” (and “no”) pile, I’m able to give these cover letters a quick scan and immediately identify what’ll turn a hiring manager off.

Watch On Forbes:

While I can’t give you insight into every person’s head who’ll be reading your materials, I can share with you the feedback that I give my own loved ones.

1. The Basics

First things first, I skim the document for anything that could be disqualifying. That includes typos, a “Dear Sir or Madam” or “ To Whom It May Concern ” salutation, or a vibe so non-specific that it reeks of find-replace. I know it seems harsh, but when a hiring manager sees any one of these things, she reads it as, “I didn’t take my time with this, and I don’t really care about working here.” So, she’s likely to pass.

Another thing I look for in this initial read through is tone. Even if you’re applying to your dream company, you don’t want to come off like you think someone entertaining your candidacy is the same as him offering you water at the end of a lengthy hike. You don’t need to thank the hiring manager so incredibly much for reading your application—that’s his job. If you align considering your application with the biggest favor ever, you’ll make the other person think it’s because you’re desperate .

So, skip effusive thanks and demonstrate genuine interest by writing a cover letter that  connects the dots between your experience and the requirements of the position. Telling the reader what you’ve accomplished and how it directly translates to meeting the company’s needs is always a better use of space than gushing.

2. The Opening Sentence

If your first line reads: “I am writing to apply for [job] at [company],” I will delete it and suggest a swap every time. (Yes, every single time.) When a hiring manager sees that, she won’t think, “How thoughtful of the applicant to remind me what I’m reading!” Her reaction will be much closer to, “boring,” “meh” or even “next!”

Compare it to one of these statements: ‌ ‌•  “I’ve wanted to work in education ever since my third grade teacher, Mrs. Dorchester, helped me discover a love of reading.”

‌•  “My approach to management is simple: I strive to be the kind of leader I’d want to work for.”

‌•  “In my three years at [prior company], I increased our average quarterly sales by [percentage].”

See how these examples make you want to keep reading? That’s half the battle right there. Additionally, it makes you memorable, which’ll help when you’re competing against a sea of applicants.

To try it out for yourself, pick a jumping off point. It could be something about you or an aspect of the job description that you’re really drawn to. Then, open a blank document and just free write (translation: write whatever comes to mind) for 10 minutes. Some of the sentences you come up with will sound embarrassing or lame: That’s fine—no one has to see those! Look for the sentence that’s most engaging and see how it reads as the opening line for your cover letter.

3. The Examples

Most often, people send me just their cover letter and resume, so I don’t have the benefit of reviewing the position description. And yet, whenever a letter follows the format of “I am skilled at [skill], [skill], [skill], as evidenced by my time at [place].” Or “You’re looking for [skill], and I am a talented [skill], ” I could pretty much recreate it. Surprise : that’s actually not a good thing.

Again, the goal isn’t just to show you’re qualified: It’s to make the case that you’re more qualified than all the other applicants. You want to make clear what distinguishes you, so the hiring manager can see why you’re worth following up with to learn more. And—again—you want to be memorable.

If you write a laundry list, it’ll blend into every other submission formatted the same way. So, just like you went with a unique opener , do the same with your examples. Sure, you might still include lists of skills, but break those up with anecdotes or splashes of personality.

Here’s a real, two-line excerpt from a cover letter I’ve written before:

If I’m in a conference room and the video isn’t working, I’m not the sort to simply call IT and wait. I’ll also (gracefully) crawl under the table and check that everything is properly plugged in.

A couple lines like this will not only lighten up your letter, but also highlight your soft skills. I got the point across that I’m a take-charge problem solver, without saying, “I’m a take-charge problem solver.” Plus the “(gracefully)” shows that I don’t take myself too seriously—even in a job application. If your submission follows the same list-type format all the way through, see if you can’t pepper in an example or anecdote that’ll add some personality.

You want your cover letter to stand out for all the right reasons. So, before you click submit, take a few minutes to make sure you’re putting your best (and most memorable) foot forward.

"I've Read Over 300+ Cover Letters And This Is How I Decide If It's Good Or Bad Within 3 Minutes" was originally published on The Daily Muse .

Sara McCord  is a Staff Writer/Editor for The Daily Muse.

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Cover Letter Prep

So you’re finally finishing residency and ready to move on to your first big job or fellowship. Your CV is polished (since you obviously used the awesome EMRA CV Guide, right?!), and now all you have to do is put together your Cover Letter.

Wait – what’s a cover letter you ask? And why do you need one in the first place?

A Cover Letter is written by you to a potential employer describing your skills and experience as they pertain to the job you’re hoping to land from them.

While having a great CV is essential to the job search, a well-written cover letter can be just as important; it’s your chance to distinguish yourself from other candidates with similarly competitive CVs and encourage the employer to want to learn more about you, ideally leading to an interview.

Okay you get it, but help! You have no idea what to write! Don’t worry – that’s what we’re here for! Let’s break it down.

The Basics:

• Start with your name and contact details at the top of the page. Make sure this information matches your CV!
• Next, include the name and contact info of the person who will receive your letter. This is usually the department chair, but in some cases may be the fellowship director or the recruiter. If you’re not sure who this person is, just call and ask!
• Address your letter to this person – “Dear Dr. Smith…”
• Keep the length to one page max, with size 10-12 font (never smaller!) and page margins at least 0.75 inches.

Content: What do I put in this thing, anyway?

The meat of your cover letter should accomplish the following four things:

1. State the position for which you are applying

• Are you looking for a full-time or part-time position? Are you applying for a fellowship spot? Primarily clinical work or with core faculty responsibilities?
• While it’s important to be clear about the job you want, no need to get super specific with the nitty gritty HR stuff; requests for salary, benefits, and hours should be left for the interview process

2. Convey a connection to the location or practice

• Did you grow up in the neighborhood? Do you have family or friends in the area? Do you love the population that ED serves?
• Be sure to read about the group or program and learn more about the specific job culture and requirements so you can reference relevant items and how they relate to you in your letter

3. Describe your skills and experiences that make you a desirable candidate and the right match for the job

• Think like an employer: What specific knowledge, skills, prior experience, or advanced training can you offer this position?
• Illustrate how how you've developed and demonstrated your strongest skills in the past. (Ex: If you were applying for a medical education fellowship, you might highlight lectures and teaching you’ve done and any leadership or formal education training you’ve completed)
• Highlight any ongoing or anticipated projects that may not have made it onto your CV quite yet but are relevant to this position
• Caution: This is not a space to simply regurgitate your CV. Instead, if you do mention a specific CV item, it should be because you are elaborating on the experience to support your qualifications

4. Finish with “the ask” and a “thank you”

• End your letter by asking the reader to look over your CV and contact you about an interview, and thank them for their time and consideration
• Try something simple like, "I have attached a copy of my CV for your review. I look forward to hearing from you about this application and appreciate your time and consideration.”
• Be positive and professional. When in doubt, err on the side of formality... but it is okay to let a little of your personality shine through!
• Do not send the same cover letter to every place you apply . If you are applying across the country or to a wide variety of practice settings, you should adjust your cover letter to reflect the unique characteristics or specifics of each location
• Proofread, proofread, and proofread some more! Just like your CV, be meticulous with formatting and other style details and have friends/mentors help you edit to ensure there are no spelling or grammar errors
• Print a copy of your cover letter and read it out loud to yourself. This will help you find any accidental grammar areas or typos that your eyes may otherwise miss having looked it over on a computer dozens of times
• Whenever you send your letter electronically, upload a PDF rather than a word processing document (e.g. Word, Pages) to ensure it looks the same on the employer’s computer as it does on yours

Can you show me an example?

Ok! Let’s take a look at something you might say in your cover letter and three ways you could word it:

Not So Good

Please find my CV attached (with a paperclip) for my application to work at ECG Memorial Hospital.  You should definitely take a chance on me!  I’ll just cut right to the chase:  I just graduated residency and am looking for that new position to practice my skills as an Emergency Physician.  You are one of four places I am applying.  I may be  a new EP, but I promise to work really hard to do good things for your department. 

Getting There

[...] As a recent graduate from a busy residency training program, I believe I will thrive at ECG Memorial. I have plenty of experience dealing with a similar patient population to ECG and am very interested in participating in your ED’s community outreach program with the local elementary schools as Pediatric Emergency Medicine is an interest of mine.  Please consider me a strong candidate for the position.

Much Better!

[...] Training in a trauma center similar to ECG Memorial with over 100K ED patient visits per year has given me the skills needed to manage surge and rapidly triage patients with concern for efficiency as well as exceptional patient care.  ED patient flow is a particular interest of mine, and as a resident member of the Provider at Triage Committee in my home institution, I am excited for the new triage system being trialed at ECG and feel I would be a strong and useful addition to your team during this transition.

YOU WANT MORE?

The Internet is full of sample Cover Letters. Search within your web browser of choice for good examples of formatting and content.

And don’t forget to turn to mentors and your program director for advice. They know you as a resident and may have some ideas on ways to shape your letter to really highlight your strengths!

We also like the following resources that may also be helpful to you:

“Physician Cover Letters: Why Writing a Good One is as Important as Ever” — NEJM “Writing Compelling Physician Cover Letters” — NEJM "How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024 + Examples" — Novoresume Career Blog

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How to Apply for a Fellowship

Residents & fellows.

Find useful tips and learn more about applying for fellowship positions. View a list of fellowship opportunities on the Fellowship Directory .

Inform Your Decision

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FROM ONE TRAINEE TO ANOTHER: HOW TO APPLY FOR FELLOWSHIP

• Start Early:  Check program websites for vacancies and requirements for the application process. Make contact with programs toward the end of your PGY2 year, and no later than October/November of your PGY3 year. Look on the AAN Fellowships Page, individual program websites, such as FREIDA and other websites. Remember, since fellowship positions and availability are constantly changing, do not rely on information on these sites alone. Always contact the program you are interested in.
• Think About Your Career Goals:  Why a fellowship? What specialty? Is this the right area and/or lifestyle for me? Compare specialties. Speak to people across multiple specialties. Keep your options open. Make time to reflect and decide your priorities.
• Get Informed:  Consider the job market of your specialty, check out geographical areas, talk to other applicants or previous fellows, speak to your mentors (very important!), obtain input from professors. Where is the field going and where will it be when you are done training? In general, the application process varies widely based on the fellowship to which you're applying (e.g., neurocritical care now follows a match system).
• Draft a Timeline:  Create a timeline of when to submit applications and prepare for interviews. The budget for travel. If you are going to need to arrange for time off work or clinical coverage while you are at interviews, do this early.
• Relax:  Don't panic. The vast majority of program graduates have found fellowships that have suited their needs well.
• Organize:  Prepare a list of questions, organize your certificates with all dates, be prepared for the application process in advance, have a portfolio available, use one email address for all applications. (Tip: Use your university address rather than personal email.)
• Draft Your Personal Statement:  Personal statements should be one page or less. Be enthusiastic, communicate through your words. Get help with proofreading (by at least two people), especially if English is not your first language.
• Recommendation Letters:  Obtain strong letters that are well-written. You need to sell yourself and be competitive.
• Research Experience:  Whether publications or presentations, be able to demonstrate the significance of your work, be knowledgeable on your research topic, how your research will make an impact. Get excited about your research and think about how you want to continue research through Fellowship and beyond.
• Application:  List community service projects, write clearly and demonstrate the spectrum of your academic record. List all pertinent accomplishments.
• Interview/Selection Process:  Clinical performance, rotation evaluations, and interpersonal skills are important, as well as the reputation of your program, involvement in research, and medical knowledge (e.g., USMLE). Be prepared for questions (why are you different, why this field, this particular program, your weaknesses, where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?). Be confident. Ask your own questions. Eye contact and professionalism are important. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early, plan your route the day before and allow time for travel delays and mishaps.
• Keep in Contact:  Send thank you notes, maintain follow-up, listen for vacancies or announcements, consistently check and re-check websites.
• Maintain Perspective:  Stressful situations can blur your goals and/or perspective. Strategize early - you may have to make difficult decisions to make when the offers start rolling in!

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Cover Letter for Research Fellowship?

Hello! Humanities/social history PhD student in the US here. I've encountered a requirement for a fellowship app I don't quite understand and, since my faculty is not super responsive, was hoping one of you might have some insight.

I'm applying for a research fellowship at a library--not a full time position or anything, just a fellowship where they provide you with $ to travel there and use the archives. They require a research statement, which makes sense, but they also say they want a cover letter. No further explanation. Have any of yall written or seen a good example of a cover letter for a research-only grant like this? If it was a full position or something, I'd get it, but I don't know what they want from the cover letter that they wouldn't get from my CV and research statement

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Fellowship Application Cover Letter

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• Can-do, Will-do mentality;
• Leadership skills;
• Ability to multi-task;
• Ability to communicate;
• Hard work ethics;
• Creativity;
• Problem-solving ability;
• Structured and written to highlight your strengths;
• Brief, preferably one page in length;
• Clean, error-free, and easy to read;
• Immediately clear about your name and the position you are seeking.

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