111 University St.
Austin, TX 78727
February 11, 2008

Jane Doe
Human Resources Department
ABC Company
200 Yeehah Boulevard
Dallas, TX  74230 

Dear Ms. Doe: 

I am currently a graduate research assistant at The University of Texas at Austin and plan to graduate in May 2008 with a Master of Science in Structural Engineering.  I am genuinely interested in obtaining a full-time position upon graduation in your Dallas office.  Dr. John Smith recommended that your company would be a good candidate to facilitate my interests.  My goal is to use the knowledge that I have received from my studies and apply it to the challenges presented by your company.  I have enclosed a copy of my resume that details my academic qualifications and professional experience. 

I am in the process of writing my master's thesis on the potential applications and benefits of fibers in concrete pavements.  My research has progressed from a state-of-the-art report to performing laboratory tests to completing field evaluations that document the effects of fibers in pavements.  I have also taken advantage of the diverse courses that are offered in graduate school.  This includes several design projects ranging from composite bridge girders to portable grandstands used in large sports arenas as well as irregular buildings subjected to earthquake loads. 

In addition to my academic history, I have pursued several positions at different engineering firms.  My most recent engineering position was at Criterium-Stanton Engineers where I gained valuable field experience by performing structural inspections.  My professional experience also includes Zapata Engineering and Ralph Whitehead Associates, Inc., where I designed structural systems and generated drawings and specifications required for construction.  I would also like to expand my interests to encompass projects of various scales, such as innovative building and seismic design that require a higher level of technical background. 

I am impressed by the reputation of ABC Company and feel confident that my maturity, qualifications, and enthusiasm would enable me to contribute to its continuing success.  I plan to visit Dallas during the week of March 10 and would appreciate an opportunity to meet with you and discuss a position.  I am excited about the prospect of working for your company and look forward to hearing from you.  If you have any questions, I may be reached at (512) 555-5555 or joestudent@mail.utexas.edu.  Once again, thank you for your time and consideration. 

Sincerely, 

Joe Student

Enclosure