Three university students/recent graduates have submitted cover letters for a Customer Service Associate Internship at BrightPath Marketing.

Your task is to:

1. Read all three cover letters carefully.

2. Grade each letter using the provided rubric (50 points total).

3. Decide which applicant should receive an interview.

4. Identify:

   • What each applicant did well

   • What could be improved

   • Which letter was most effective and why

May 20, 2026

Ms. Dana Roberts
Hiring Manager
BrightPath Marketing
455 West Pine Street
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 555-2281

Dear Ms. Roberts,

I am writing to apply for the Customer Service Associate Internship position posted on your company website. As a recent graduate from University of Wisconsin–Madison with a degree in Marketing, I am excited about the opportunity to begin my career with BrightPath Marketing because of your company’s strong reputation for creativity and client engagement.

During my time at university, I developed strong communication and teamwork skills through group projects, campus leadership activities, and part-time employment at a retail clothing store. My experience assisting customers, handling transactions, and resolving concerns helped me build confidence in professional customer service. I believe these experiences would allow me to contribute positively to your team. Please refer to my enclosed resume for additional information regarding my qualifications and experience.

I would welcome the opportunity to interview with you and discuss how my skills and enthusiasm would benefit BrightPath Marketing. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

Emily Chen

Enclosure

May 20, 2026

Mr. Alan Greene
General Manager
BrightPath Marketing
455 West Pine Street
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 555-2281

To Whom It May Concern:

I am interested in applying for the Customer Service Associate Internship position that I learned about through my academic advisor at Arizona State University. I am especially interested in BrightPath Marketing because your company values innovation, teamwork, and professional development for young employees.

I recently completed my Bachelor’s degree in Communications and gained valuable experience through volunteer work with community organizations and my role as a student orientation leader. These opportunities strengthened my public speaking, leadership, and organizational skills. In addition, my coursework in communication and media relations prepared me to work effectively with clients and team members. My enclosed resume provides more detailed information about my education and experiences.

Thank you for considering my application. I would appreciate the opportunity to interview for this position and discuss how I could contribute to your organization. I am available weekdays after 1:00 p.m. and may be reached by phone or email at your convenience.

Sincerely,

Jordan Patel

Enclosure

May 20, 2026

Hiring Committee
BrightPath Marketing
455 West Pine Street
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 555-2281

Dear Hiring Committee,

I would like to apply for the Customer Service Associate Internship position that was advertised at my university career fair. I recently graduated from University of South Florida with a degree in Business Administration, and I am eager to begin working for a company known for strong customer relationships and collaborative teamwork.

While attending university, I completed an internship with a local nonprofit organization where I assisted visitors, answered phone calls, and coordinated event registration. I also served as Treasurer of the Business Student Association, where I learned responsibility, organization, and communication skills. These experiences helped prepare me for a professional work environment. My resume is enclosed for your review and includes additional details about my background and qualifications.

I would appreciate the opportunity to speak with you further about this position. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to BrightPath Marketing.

Sincerely,

Sophia Martinez

Enclosure

1. Which cover letter was strongest overall?

2. Which applicant sounded the most professional?

3. Which letter best explained qualifications?

4. Which applicant showed the most enthusiasm?

5. What improvements could strengthen the weaker letters?

6. Which formatting choices made the letters easier to read?

7. What mistakes should students avoid in their own writing?