Structure this letter along these lines:
Make a connection between you and the reader—e.g., alumnus/alumna of your school, mutual acquaintance, similar interest or background, etc.
State your purpose without pressuring the reader. Explain your situation briefly.
Request a meeting at a mutually convenient time, and indicate that you will call to make arrangements.
543 Clark St.
New York, NY 20002
October 21, 2008
Ms. Jennifer Hundahl, Partner
Dewey and Howe Brokerage, LLP
1400 Broad Street
New York, NY 10004
Dear Ms. Hundahl:
Dr. Clifton Carr, professor of economics at City College, suggested that I contact you. He thought that, as an alumna, you would be in an excellent position to assist me with a career decision.
As an economics student, I am exploring which career path to pursue. Securities, trading, and investment banking work all sound interesting to me at this point, but I want to go into my campus interviews next semester with a clear sense of direction. I would like to get your advice on the long-term career implications of each path as well as a better understanding of the day-to-day activities of a broker.
I shall call you next week to see if we can arrange a brief meeting at your convenience. Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely,
Allison Harris
Allison Harris