TABLE OF CONTENTS
Free Graduate Assistant Cover Letter Example
We've created this free cover letter template with instructions on how to write each paragraph. Fill in the rest of the blanks to ensure proper letter formatting.
Your name
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Today’s Date]
[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[OPTIONAL: Department Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Mr./Ms. Hiring Manager or Recruiter last name],
This section is your opener and should contain your ‘purpose’ or interest statement that explains why you would be interested in the job posting or the company. Make sure to reference keywords and statements from the job description.
This section is your opener and should contain your ‘purpose’ or interest statement that explains why you would be interested in the job posting or the company. Make sure to reference keywords and statements from the job description.
The body paragraph (s): should contain skills and qualifications related to the job, i.e., provide a narrative example of how your job-related skills were obtained/honed. Your goal here is to match the skills to the employer’s needs. Justify how your career experiences could fit into the position and the organization.
The end paragraph: is the closer that would signify a ‘call to action’ by reiterating an essential qualification for the position you possess and an appreciation for the employer’s consideration.
Closing statement: Thank the employer/recruiter for their time.
Sincerely,
— Your Full Name
You can pair it with a professionally designed cover letter template to showcase your personal style and attract recruiters' attention.
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How to Write a Graduate Assistant Cover Letter
Writing a cover letter doesn't have to be a hassle if you follow our step-by-step guide. The following infographic will show you the essential sections of a professional cover letter.
If you're trying to write a cover letter and don't know where to start, the following step-by-step guide will break down the writing process into a few easy steps.
STEP 1
Format your cover letter’s header correctly
Start your graduate assistant cover letter with a header with essential information, such as the date, recipient name and a polite greeting. This header follows the standard business letter structure and sets a professional tone.
Strong cover letter header example:
May 09, 2025
Dr. Emily Langston
Graduate Program Coordinator
University of California, Berkeley
3200 Dwinelle Hall
Berkeley, CA 94720
Dear Dr. Langston,
Weak cover letter header example:
To whom it may concern,
Katelyn Johnsonn
4333 West Streeet Avenue
New Brusnwick, NJ 08901
katelyn989@optnail.com
(555) 900-5555
Febrauary 30th, 2023
Health International Corporations
Attention: Mr. Steve Jonson
Human Ressources Manager
532 Northbrook Road
Durham, NY 11201
PRO TIP
A big cover letter red flag is to greet the letter's recipient with a generic “To Whom It May Concern.“ Instead, personalize the greeting by stating your recipient's name or address a cover letter without a name professionally with “Dear Hiring Manager.“
STEP 2
Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph
Introduce yourself to employers in the first paragraph of your cover letter by sharing characteristics like your current profession, key skills or any other relevant qualification. Aim to sound authentic when stating your interest in the graduate assistant position.
Strong opening paragraph example:
As a recent graduate with a degree in Psychology, I am eager to apply for the Graduate Assistant position at Northwestern University. My academic background in research methods and data analysis has equipped me well for this role. During my undergraduate studies, I presented a research project that was awarded the Best Poster Presentation, capturing 40% more engagement than anticipated.
Weak opening paragraph example:
Hey there, I'm reaching out about the graduate assistant role at Tech Solutions. I've done some studying and things like that, and believe I could be a good match for your team.
PRO TIP
If you know someone who works at the company and is willing to vouch for you, mention this in the first paragraph. Find examples of properly addressing this subject in our article for referral cover letter opening paragraphs.
STEP 3
Share relevant achievements in the body paragraph
Your cover letter's body paragraph should include unique achievements you didn't already mention on your resume. There's so much you can do with this section: share your long-term career goals, share anecdotes demonstrating your work ethic or commitment to the job, or narrate the story of your career growth so far.
Strong body paragraph example:
As a graduate assistant in my previous role, I overcame challenges in streamlining data collection, leading a project that reduced processing time by 30%, enhancing departmental efficiency. By leveraging strong analytical skills and technology proficiency, I developed solutions that improved academic support services, meeting faculty needs effectively. My dedication to problem-solving and collaborative communication has been integral to team achievements, and I am eager to contribute these skills to your program.
Weak body paragraph example:
"I am seeking a graduate assistant role because I need employment and think I can manage it. I lack extensive experience in this field, but I can learn quickly. I haven't worked closely with faculty yet, but I'm willing to try. I believe I could handle the tasks if given a chance to prove myself."
STEP 4
Finish by encouraging next steps
Finally, include a closing paragraph summarizing your best professional attributes and a call to action for a future interview. Sign your letter with an appropriate sign-off phrase and your name.
Strong closing paragraph:
With a master's in education and experience as a teaching assistant, I am well-prepared to contribute effectively to the academic community at Greenfield University. My strong organizational and communication skills make me the ideal candidate for the Graduate Assistant role. I am eager to discuss my application during an interview. Thank you for considering my application.
Best regards,
Samuel Carter
Weak closing paragraph:
I'm interested in the graduate assistant position because it sounds cool and I think I'd enjoy it, but I'm still learning so I'm not sure if I'd be the best fit. Please let me know if you want to discuss further. Thank you for your consideration.
Best regards,
Alex Martinez
See? Writing a cover letter for your graduate assistant role can be easy with the right help. Check out our Cover Letter Builder for an even faster and more efficient way to create a custom cover letter tailored to your target job.
Top Skills to Include in Cover Letter Examples for Graduate Assistant
The cover letter is a great place to include more required skills that show you're the ideal candidate for the graduate assistant role you want. Share an equal mix of hard skills and soft skills to demonstrate you're a well-rounded candidate.
- Research Proficiency
- Data Analysis
- Academic Writing
- Teaching Assistance
- Statistical Software
- Grant Writing
- Literature Review
- Instructional Design
- Curriculum Development
- Public Speaking
- Student Advising
- Collaborative Research
Find more skills and content suggestions that make sense for your graduate assistant cover letter using our Cover Letter Builder to create a custom document. By simply sharing your desired job and writing style, we'll generate a letter in minutes!
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