Learn practical tips for writing three essential types of emails every student should know: the cold email, the post-interview thank-you, and the post-offer thank-you.
Let’s face it—networking as a student can feel weird. You're keen to connect with professionals, but also don’t want to come off as spammy, begging or awkward. After sending dozens of cold emails and post-interview thank-you notes (and getting some great replies!), I’ve picked up a few tricks I wish someone had told me earlier. So, here’s the rundown—three essential emails to have in your back pocket.
The cold email (aka the DM slide of the professional world)
This one's all about humility and curiosity. The key is to ask one simple, but thought-provoking question related to their work or life philosophies (e.g. when were you the happiest in your life? When you were young, what was your dream career?). The goal is to start a dialogue, so they take the time to answer future e-mails—not to ask for help right away (that comes after at least 3 or 4 genuine e-mail exchanges).
My go-to cold email starts with:
Hi [Name],
I know you’re incredibly busy and get a lot of emails, so this will only take 60 seconds to read.
[One to two sentences max, of who you are and why that's relevant to the person you're emailing, such as how you are familiar with their work.]
[Again, one to two sentences max of a hyper-specific question they can answer without thinking too hard.]
I totally understand if you are too busy to respond, even a one - or two-line reply will completely make my day.
All the best,
[Your Name]
That’s it. No resume. No “pls hire me.” The key is starting a dialogue, not a pitch.
Also, always let them know it’s okay if they don’t reply. Sounds counter-intuitive, but it works.
The thank you email (post-interview edition)
Whether it’s for a co-op, full-time role, or internship, send this within 24 hours. Keep it genuine and grateful. It’s not about being formal—it’s about being memorable.
For example:
Dear [Interviewer],
I wanted to thank you and the [company name] team for taking the time to interview me for the [name of job applied for] position. After the interview and talking about the specifics of the position, I feel even more confident that this is the position for me.
I was really impressed by how friendly everybody was, and I feel the people I met would be fantastic to work alongside. With my deep enthusiasm to learn and put in the necessary effort to get tasks completed right, I know I would make a great addition to your team.
Again, I hugely appreciate the opportunity to be interviewed by [company name] and am really excited to be considered for this position. Please let me know if there are any additional details that I can provide. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Kind regards,
[Your name]
The thank you after a job offer
This one often gets skipped, but it’s the perfect way to show professionalism early on. If you’re eager to get a head start, you can also ask to connect with a current team member or outgoing co-op. I usually open with:
Hi [Hiring Manager],
I want to start by expressing my deep enthusiasm and appreciation for the [job name] opportunity at [company name] and look forward to contributing to the team and making a positive impact.
I understand that there may be some administrative processes to finalize before I officially join the company. Please let me know if there is anything I can do from my end to help you.
[Optional paragraph:] Additionally, I was hoping you could please provide some contact information of the current co-op student at [company name] so that I can get a pulse on how I can best serve [company name].
I am excited about this opportunity to begin this new chapter with [company name].
Best,
[Your name]
At the end of the day, emails aren’t just messages—they’re opportunities. Whether you’re reaching out cold, following up after an interview, or saying thanks for a job offer, each one is a chance to show your authenticity, curiosity, and professionalism. You don’t need fancy words or a perfect script. Just be real, be respectful, and hit send.
Some of the best opportunities I’ve had started with a single, thoughtful email. So don’t overthink it—write like a human, not a robot, and trust that the right people will respond.
Now go ahead. Slide into that inbox.
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