Jun 27
cover letter examples for graphic design internships

Cover Letter Examples for Graphic Design Internships

Landing your dream graphic design internship starts with one thing: a standout cover letter.

Below are real-world cover letter examples for graphic design internships that show you how to combine personality, design skills, and professionalism into a message that gets noticed.

In this guide, you’ll learn what to say, how to say it, and why each element matters—so you can stop guessing and start applying with confidence.

Key Skills and Software to Highlight in Your Cover Letter

Hiring managers want interns who can jump in and help right away.

Start by listing design programs you know well, like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign.

Mentioning tools like Figma, Canva, or even PowerPoint can also be useful, depending on the company’s needs.

If you’ve done group projects, say so—it shows you can work with other people.

Collaboration is key in design because projects usually involve feedback from teams, clients, and sometimes even legal.

Have you helped classmates or real clients?

Mention it.

Even if it was unpaid, showing that you’ve worked on real designs in real situations matters.

Talk about what you learned from those moments—did you manage feedback well?

Design jobs move fast, so being able to work in a team and stay calm under pressure is a big win.

It proves you’re ready for the real-world pace of agency or in-house work.

The Power of a Creative Opening Line

Think of your cover letter like a design—your first sentence needs to grab attention.

Start with a short story about what got you into design.

Something like, “After making my first flyer for a school event, I knew I wanted to be a designer.”

That line gives insight into your passion and makes your letter stand out.

Another great option?

Talk about why the company you’re applying to stands out to you.

If they do bold work or have a style you love, say it.

You’re not just listing facts—you’re showing genuine interest, which is rare and valuable.

This kind of opening shows you’re interested—and that you’ve done your homework.

It gives the hiring manager a reason to keep reading.

It also sets the tone for the rest of your letter.

Connecting with the Company’s Mission and Values

Companies want to hire people who believe in their mission.

If you’re applying to a company focused on sustainability, say that you care about eco-friendly design.

If they work closely with teams, talk about a project where you were a great teammate.

Understanding the company’s mission shows that you’re not just applying randomly.

It means you’ve researched them and want to be part of what they’re building.

Show them you’re not just looking for any internship—you want this one.

Even one sentence like, “I admire how your team brings bold ideas to life with purpose,” goes a long way.

That kind of connection builds trust fast.

These details tell them that you’re thoughtful, not just clicking “apply” everywhere.

And that makes your application stand out in a crowded field.

What’s the Ideal Format for a Graphic Design Cover Letter?

Start your letter with your name and contact info at the top.

In the first paragraph, say who you are and why you’re excited to apply.

Include the job title and company name so it’s clear what you’re applying for.

In the next paragraph or two, talk about your design experience.

Mention the programs you use, any group projects you’ve done, and what kind of design you like best.

Add specific examples—did you build a brand identity for a club, or create an ad for a school event?

If you’ve helped a local business or worked on social media graphics, add that.

Mention what challenges you faced and how you solved them.

Finish strong with a friendly sentence that invites them to see your portfolio or schedule a meeting.

Make sure your tone stays confident and grateful.

Let them know you’re ready to grow and help the team.

Cover Letter Examples

Example Cover Letter 1 (Professional Style)

Subject: Graphic Design Internship Application

Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I’m excited to apply for the Graphic Design Internship at [Company Name].

I’ve been building my skills in Adobe Creative Suite and branding through school projects and hands-on work, like [specific example, e.g., “creating a visual identity for a local nonprofit”].

That project showed me how to take a big idea and turn it into something people connect with.

It taught me how to handle feedback and improve my designs based on real-world input.

I admire [specific company example, e.g., “your bold use of color and clear messaging in campaigns like XYZ”].

Your work inspires me to push my creativity further and think strategically about design.

I’d love the chance to add my perspective to your team and learn from the creative minds at your company.

You can see my work in [specific areas, e.g., “branding, layout design, and campaign graphics”] in my portfolio.

I’m always open to feedback and eager to grow.

Thanks for taking the time to read my letter.

I’d be happy to talk more about how I can support your design goals.

Best, [Your Full Name] [Your Contact Info]

Example Cover Letter 2 (Approachable Style)

Subject: Excited to Apply for Your Design Internship

Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I’m thrilled to apply for the Graphic Design Internship at [Company Name].

I’ve been building my design skills through school projects and freelance work, like [specific project, e.g., “designing logos and social media graphics for a local business”].

It taught me how to create designs that look great and tell a strong story.

I also learned how to work with deadlines, feedback, and different client personalities.

I really connect with [specific example of company work or value, e.g., “your mission to design with heart and meaning”].

The way your team balances creative risk with smart communication really stands out to me.

That’s the kind of work I want to be part of.

I’d love to bring my creativity and energy to your team while learning from your experience.

I’m also comfortable working both in person and remotely, so I’m flexible based on your needs.

Thanks again for considering me.

I’d love to share my portfolio and talk about how I can help.

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Best, [Your Full Name] [Your Contact Info]

Have You Considered Virtual Internships?

According to a 2023 Handshake report, over 60% of companies now offer virtual internships.

That means you can work from anywhere while still getting great experience.

If you’re in school or can’t travel, this option gives you flexibility and growth.

Working remotely doesn’t make you any less of a designer—it shows you’re adaptable and tech-savvy.

Plus, you’ll learn how to work with teams online, a must-have skill in today’s world.

You’ll also practice tools like Zoom, Slack, and Asana, which are used in real design jobs.

Working remotely teaches you how to manage your time and communicate clearly—both huge wins for your resume.

And it proves you can take responsibility for your schedule and your results.

At The End Of The Day

Writing a strong cover letter is about more than listing your tools and talents.

It’s about sharing who you are, what drives your design style, and why you want this opportunity.

Your voice and story make the difference—not just your skills.

Let them see your passion.

Mention why their work caught your eye.

Show them that you’re already thinking like a designer on their team.

Tell a short story that shows why design matters to you.

Even a simple example of a school project can show creativity, responsibility, and growth.

You’ve already done the work to build your skills—now it’s time to show it off with confidence.

And when you’re done, take a moment to feel proud. You just gave yourself an edge.

Ready to Stand Out?

Need help making your brand or team stand out—without all the chaos?

At MOCK, the agency, we partner with marketing directors and teams to take real work off your plate and turn it into creative that actually works.

Whether you need fresh design, smart strategy, or just someone to hit the deadline without drama, we’ve got you.

Let’s talk about how we can help you look great and breathe a little easier.

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