Sample cover letter for Full Time position at DON

As an undergraduate student in history who is anticipating graduation in May 2016, I would like to convey my interest in the Department of the Navy’s Naval History and Heritage Command’s vacancy for a position of a recent graduate historian. Enclosed is my résumé for consideration.

I have worked as an intern for the National Park Service, and this position has greatly increased by interest and my knowledge of American military history. This position required me to conduct significant independent research to develop my own interpretive program to present to the visiting public. Much of this research involved military history, of which I was previously not familiar. I feel employment with the Department of the Navy will allow me to do the same—to expand my knowledge of a historical subject area with which I may be not as familiar. At the same time, I am conducting research to inform others, such as Navy leadership, sailors, veterans, and the American public, this research is also expanding my own knowledge.

Certain undergraduate classes that I have taken throughout my college career as a history student have prepared me to conduct research and analysis of historical documents and sources and to answer inquiries. Mainly, my senior thesis class in which I independently researched a topic on  for the entire Fall 2015 semester and then presented this 25-page research in front of humanities and university faculty and staff.

In the past, I have considered joining one of America’s armed forces because I wanted to give back to my country and be a part of something bigger than myself. Frankly, I lacked the will and the courage to follow through with joining and potentially put my life at risk—although I know not all careers in the armed forces involve such risk. After reading this job summary, I think a career with the Department of the Navy—which links military and civilian efforts to protect American freedoms domestically and abroad—still allows me to achieve that purpose of being a part of something bigger than I am, while also putting the tools my education equipped me with to use.

Attached is my resume for your review. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me. I am available for interview at your convenience, and I look forward to a potential meeting in person.

Thank you for your consideration,