Sample #1 – Exploring a Specific Role/Industry

Subject: St. Thomas Student Seeking Career Insight in Publishing & Marketing

Dear Mr. Silliman,

My name is [Name], and I am currently a sophomore at the University of St. Thomas studying English. I came across your profile on TommieLink (or LinkedIn / Tommie Network) and was excited to learn about your work at ABC Publishing House.

I previously interned in the editorial department at an independent publishing company, which helped me discover a strong interest in the industry. Through additional experience marketing a student-led literary magazine here on campus, I’ve realized that marketing—specifically within publishing—may be a great fit for my strengths and interests.

I would be grateful for the chance to learn from your experience. If you are open to it, I would love to schedule a 30-minute informational interview to hear more about your work in marketing and any advice you might have for someone exploring this path.

Thank you very much for considering my request—I truly appreciate your time.

Warmly,
[Name]
University of St. Thomas, Class of 20XX
Email: xxx@stthomas.edu | Phone: XXX-XXX-XXXX
LinkedIn: (optional)

Sample #2 – Comparing Work Environments

Subject: St. Thomas Senior Interested in Biotech – Seeking Your Perspective

Dear Ms. Morse,

My name is [Name], and I am a Biology major at the University of St. Thomas, graduating this May. After graduation, I plan to pursue opportunities in the biotechnology sector in the Boston area, and I’m currently exploring which work environments align best with my interests and strengths.

Given your experience working both at a large biotech corporation and a smaller start-up, I would greatly appreciate hearing your perspective on those different environments and any guidance you might have for someone entering the field.

I will be home in the Boston area March 7–19 for Spring Break, and if you are open to it, I would love the chance to meet for coffee or connect virtually—whatever works best for you.

Thank you very much for considering. I look forward to hopefully learning from your experience.

Best,
[Name]
University of St. Thomas, Class of 20XX
Phone: XXX-XXX-XXXX
Email: xxx@stthomas.edu

Sample #3 – Seeking Advice During an Active Application

Subject: St. Thomas Student Seeking Insight on [Company XYZ]

Dear Ms. Stiles,

My name is [Name], and I’m currently a student at the University of St. Thomas exploring careers in [industry/field]. I recently came across your profile through LinkedIn / the St. Thomas Alumni Network, and I was inspired by your career path at Company XYZ.

I have recently applied for a role with your organization and would be incredibly grateful for the chance to learn from your experience. If you’re open to it, I would love to connect for 20–25 minutes to hear about your transition from college into the industry, your journey at Company XYZ, and any advice you might have for a student hoping to follow a similar path.

I truly appreciate your time and consideration.

Thank you,
[Name]
University of St. Thomas, Class of 20XX
Phone: XXX-XXX-XXXX
Email: xxx@stthomas.edu
LinkedIn: (optional)