8
C
Development
PRINCETON UNIVERSITY
WEAK-BETTER-BEST SAMPLE SENTENCES
Weak Better Best
I am a junior sociology major seeking a
summer journalism internship.
I am interested in using my writing
skills this summer in your journalism
internship. As a junior sociology major,
I have had the opportunity to develop
my writing skills through my academic
work and submissions to a University
magazine.
I am an avid reader of People & Places
Magazine and was inspired to launch
a travel blog [link] after my semester
abroad. With an interest in creative
writing and a global focus, I am excited
to apply for the creative writing
internship at your publication.
Weak Better Best
I have strong writing skills and am
procient in Microsoft Publisher and
Adobe InDesign.
With strong writing skills and prociency
in Microsoft Publisher and Adobe
InDesign, I have created dozens of
yers for the Princeton Writers Club
and submitted three articles to Student
Magazine.
I was recognized by my internship
employer for my writing and creativity
when I wrote website content to
highlight new products. On campus I
contribute to Student Magazine, and
my articles engage readers and capture
their attention.
Weak Better Best
People & Places Magazine has won
more Ellie Awards than any other
publication in the past decade.
I am committed to writing excellence
and admire People & Places Magazine’s
long-standing record as a leading
industry publication.
Weak Better Best
This internship would be a great
opportunity to improve my writing skills.
Please feel free to call me if you’d like
more information.
Thank you for your time and
consideration. I hope to hear from you
soon.
I am excited about the journalism
internship and am condent you will
nd my background a strong match
for your organization. I look forward to
speaking with you soon about the role
and my qualications.
Introduction
The weak opening line lacks enthusiasm and originality. The better one hits key points (who I am, why I’m writing), and the
best letter demonstrates a connection between the applicant’s skillset and the organization.
“About Me” Content
This rst line is weak because it is simply a list of skills. The better sentence demonstrates achievements with those skills,
and the best one tells a story that ties the skills and achievements together.
“About the Organization” Content
A weak letter skips this part altogether, and recruiters will notice it missing. The better letter references the organization
but is written like a sales pitch. The best letter shows the writer’s interest and common traits.
Conclusion
A weak closing focuses on the job seeker’s wants and does not express appreciation for being considered.
A better one is more polite, and the best version reiterates both the applicant’s interest and value to the company
and calls the reader to action.