If you are looking to apply for a dietetic internship in the near future, you will need to submit a professional letter with your application. Students are often unable to translate their experiences into a letter that offers insight into who they are and why they would be a great candidate. These 8 key points will help you write a better letter and get the committee on dietary practices to pay attention to you.

1. Follow the instructions to the letter. Many students jump ahead and do not follow directions. If you don’t answer the relevant questions that the internship committee wants to know, you will lower your chances of being recognized as a good candidate. Be sure to always read the instructions and questions carefully.

2. Outline what you want to say in advance with a brief summary. This can help you set a timeline and will spark ideas for your letter. It can also help you write more attentively. Start with the most important experiences first. Once you have an outline, it will be much easier to create a new letter document without staring at a blank page wondering where to start.

3. Once you know what experiences you’d like to include, start with a brief introduction stating your interests in a particular program and why that program appeals to you.

4. In the body of the letter you will have to answer specific questions. Please refer to the Practice Packets for information on questions the Dietary Practices Committee wants answered. Relate these questions to your goals, experiences, strengths, and potential as a candidate. Include specific examples of why these experiences will benefit the internship.

5. You may want to include reasons why the internship program appeals to you. Is there a dietitian who graduated from that internship program or an article about that particular facility that sparked your interest?

6. Write each letter as if it were the only internship you want instead of being very general. Give examples of how that particular program will help you achieve your short-term and long-term goals.

7. Be sure to review your thoughts in a letter that is concise and not too long. Most professional letters should be a maximum of 2 pages.

8. After you finish your letter, thank them for their consideration.

According to information on the All Access Internships website, many dietetics students felt they received an internship because the career letter helped them stand out and get noticed. Don’t reduce your chances of receiving an internship because you didn’t take the time to write a high-quality letter. It may be one of the most important items you will include in your application package.