Paragraph 1: Introduce yourself
The first paragraph of your cold email should be an introduction to yourself, your background, and how you came across this individual of choice. Make sure the first paragraph has this information:
- Name
- Year (first, second, third...)
- Major/minor(s)
- University/Institution
- How do you know this professor?
- What is your research interest and experience?
Paragraph 2: How their opportunity fits...
The second paragraph should relate to the opportunity you are reaching out about, and how it aligns with your interests.
In order to complete this section of the email... PLEASE research the group/individual beforehand. What is their mission? What do they research/study? Read a couple articles or webpages surrounding their work. Some questions to consider answering:
- What does this opportunity provide that interests you? If it's a research experience, list methodologies or topics that you want to gain more knowledge in.
- How does their work align with your interests? Are you particularly interested in their field as a career choice, or are you broadening your experiences to try something new?
- Do you have the necessary experience or knowledge in this field? If not, are you willing to learn the skills necessary?
This part should NEVER be a template that you send out to multiple people. This part needs to be unique to every individual that you reach out to, and fit their interests.
Paragraph 3: Availability and C.V.
In order to truly stand out, you want to show initiative to learn more about this opportunity or individual. Consider using these phrases:
-"I would love to learn more about possibly interning with you over the XX semester/quarter."
-"I am interested in applying for a position with you at YY, what are some of the steps I would need to take in order to apply for this position?"
-"Can we possibly meet to go over the responsibilities of this role, and how I can further apply?"
After this question, mention that you have attached your CV/resume, and then attach that file to the email.
Professional Image of your Email
Consider these tips with your email account and formatting to stand out even more.
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- Use a professional picture of yourself as the profile picture
- Include an email signature (name, school, graduating year, degree, major/minor, email or phone number)
- If applying to a university or research postition, use your university affiliated email
- Send a follow-up email one week after if no response
- Keep the language formal, but a friendly tone is always appreciated
- Always spell-check your work
- Make use of paragraphing! Do NOT send a wall of text. Keep the paragraphs small and easy to skim
- End the email with an in-email enclosure (e.g., "Thank you. - Jacinda")
