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Most threads on TLS about cover letters advise a straightforward short summary of credentials/coursework/experience with very little "selling."

My OCS recommends making a few points about why you're qualified, using your credentials and experience to "sell" those points. I.e., doing doc review at Cravath enhanced my attention to detail and gave me insight into the litigation process. Based on the cover letter samples at Boalt and HLS, it looks like other schools go this route as well.

Which is the better approach?

Anonymous User wrote:Most threads on TLS about cover letters advise a straightforward short summary of credentials/coursework/experience with very little "selling."

My OCS recommends making a few points about why you're qualified, using your credentials and experience to "sell" those points. I.e., doing doc review at Cravath enhanced my attention to detail and gave me insight into the litigation process. Based on the cover letter samples at Boalt and HLS, it looks like other schools go this route as well.

Which is the better approach?

Depends on which firms you are applying to and where? If you are targeting a market that usually requires some ties, play up your ties in your cover letter. NYC, D.C., etc.? IDK never applied to those markets.

I'm talking mostly about the second and third paragraphs in these letters: http://hls.harvard.edu/content/uploads/ ... eb2011.pdf

Anonymous User wrote:I'm talking mostly about the second and third paragraphs in these letters: http://hls.harvard.edu/content/uploads/ ... eb2011.pdf

I tried to tie my work experience to what the firm is known for/what area at the firm I wanted to work in.