student cover letter

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How To Write A College Student Cover Letter (With Examples)

• Cover Letter Examples
• Best Cover Letters
• Cover Letter For Internship
• General Cover Letter Templates
• Career Change Cover Letter
• Promotion Cover Letter
• College Student Cover Letter
• Entry Level Cover Letter
• Legal Cover Letter
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• Cover Letter For Government Job
• Cover Letter With No Experience
• Short Cover Letter Examples
• How To Send An Email Cover Letter
• How To Write A Cover Letter For A Job With No Experience In That Field

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Writing a cover letter can be difficult, especially if you’re a college student who may not have written one in the past. An excellent cover letter can help convince a hiring manager that you are the best person for the job. This is why you should know how to write a college student cover letter.

If you’re a college student who needs to write the best cover letter, stick around. In this article, we’ll go over how to write a college cover letter, provide some student cover letter examples, and give you some tips to keep in mind when writing your letter.

Key Takeaways

Your cover letter should include an achievement-driven introduction, your key skills and qualifications, and a call to action.

Research the company you’re applying to so you can tailor your cover letter to them and follow any guidelines they lay out.

Include your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, honors, and soft skills in your cover letter.

How to write a cover letter as a college student

What to include in your cover letter, cover letter examples for college students, 7 tips for writing your college student cover letter, how to write a college student cover letter faq.

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When writing a cover letter as a college student, you should start by greeting the recipient of the letter by name and give an achievement-driven introduction. The formatting for both a resume and a cover letter is quite similar. Here is an overview of how to lay out your letter:

Add your contact information in a header. At the top of your letter, you want to list out your contact information . This should include your name, phone number, and email address. Including your home address is also an option.

Maria Smith 215-888-5252 [email protected] 16 West Street New York, NY , 10001 9/1/2020

Add the company’s contact information. Up next you should add the contact details for the company . You should put the hiring manager’s name, company address, and phone number. Typically, this information can be found within the job posting or by doing some digging on the website.

Tim Cook Apple, Inc. One Apple Park Way Cupertino, CA 95014

Include a greeting. Your salutation should be tailored to the hiring manager, i.e. “Dear Mr. Smith”. You want to avoid saying phrases such as “To whom it may concern” which are not as personal. If you cannot find the correct hiring manager to address the letter to , it is also acceptable to use “Dear Hiring Manager” as your greeting.

Dear Mr. Cook ,

Give an achievement-driven introduction. The introduction to your cover letter should be a way for the recruiter to get to know you right away. Discuss how your education has made you a strong candidate and what you have learned. Lead with a special accomplishment that relates to the position that you are applying for. This gives the hiring manager an immediate sense of who you are and is a great segue into the next component of your letter.

My name is Maria Smith and I’m pleased to submit my application for Marketing Research Intern at Apple, Inc. I was thrilled to read this job description on Indeed and feel as though my education and skills are a perfect fit for this exciting team.

Cover key skills and why you fit the job. With your introduction setting the tone, the next section of your letter should dive deeper into your relevant qualifications. As a college student this is where you can describe experiences or organizations that you were involved in that helped you to acquire certain skills. These experiences and transferable skills should align with some of the key duties that were outlined in the description of the job. Show your passion and why you want the role.

This area of your cover letter should speak directly to why you want to work for the organization. You should express enthusiasm and a knowledge of the company. A tip is to research any notable accomplishments of the company, such as philanthropic work that you would also be interested in. Let the employer know that your personal values and goals align with those of the company.

As a senior at Penn State University in the Marketing department planning to graduate in May with a 3.6 GPA, I have accumulated a broad range of skills in market research and spent over 150 hours compiling reports of various findings on different subjects. I recently conducted a significant focus group for the university, where we gathered feedback regarding the perception and satisfaction of campus life.

Provide a call-to-action (CTA). One of the first rules of advertising is to always have a call to action, and when marketing yourself to a prospective employer the same rule applies. Be direct in that you know you are a good fit and that you would like to move forward. You can request a follow-up to further discuss your credentials and learn more about the role. This will be the conclusion paragraph of your letter, tying everything mentioned earlier together.

As an individual who fights for inclusion and diversity, I can say that not only do your values align with my own personal ones, but I feel as though I could make a significant difference through the value of research on this team if given the opportunity. Enclosed, please find my resume with further details about my education and previous experience. Thank you for the opportunity to apply for this exciting new position and I look forward to hearing from you soon. Please reach me by email at [email protected] or via phone at 215-888-5252.

Give your best regards and add your name. End your cover letter with a farewell statement such as “Best regards” or “Sincerely” followed by your first and last name underneath.

Best regards, Maria Smith

When writing your cover letter as a college student, you should include your academic achievements, any extracurricular activities, or your high GPA. Here is a more detailed list of the things to include in your cover letter:

Academic achievements. If your senior project earned the award for the best in your graduating class, say so. If you worked on a project that was successfully implemented in the real world, talk about that too.

Extracurricular activities. Talking about the clubs you were a part of (or led), the volunteer work you did, or the other activities you participated in can help give hiring managers a better idea of all that you bring to the table.

Honors or high GPA. If you graduated with honors or with a GPA higher than 3.5, mention that in your cover letter. While grades certainly aren’t everything when it comes to getting a job, if you have good ones, they’re worth mentioning.

Soft skills. Being a college student requires many of the same skills that being an employee does, especially when it comes to soft skills like communication, time management, and problem-solving. Highlight these in your cover letter by giving examples of how you’ve used them.

Student cover letter example

John Brown 123 Brook Ln. Towne, MD 123-456-7890 [email protected] 08/24/2020 Ashley Smith Senior Analyst 456 Technology Way Landon, MD Dear Ms. Smith, As a senior sports management student at Roothers State College, I was excited to see your posting for equipment interns. Within my degree program, I have been able to gain experience working with athletes across football, basketball, and baseball. I have been one of only four students to successfully complete rotations in all three sports in four semesters. I have maintained a 3.8 cumulative GPA throughout my academic career, while also being active in several campus recreational leagues. I have found that participating in sports gives operations staff a unique perspective when it comes to working with athletes. This has also helped me to interact with diverse groups of people and maintain a working knowledge of each sport. I know how to organize, coordinate, and assist with all aspects of equipment management due to my experience. It has been a dream to work for a professional sports team, but the Maryland Tigers is a franchise that I truly believe in. I have watched as the organization supports young players and always gives back to the local community. Being that I have also volunteered with Little League teams, I know that the core values of the organization align with my own. I am confident that I would make an ideal candidate for the equipment intern role. Whether assisting coaches with drills or maintaining inventory, I can be an asset to the team. I look forward to learning more about the internship and discussing my qualifications in detail. I have provided my contact details for your convenience. Best regards, John Brown

Email cover letter example

Subject Line: Social Media Manager Application — Sam Smith Dear Mr. Williams, My name is Sam Smith and I believe I would be an excellent for your Social Media Manager position. As a recent Yune University graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in social media management and a member of the Media Communications Society, I am an expert across several major platforms. During my time as a board chairman, I successfully increased engagement by 86% on Facebook during my final campaign to increase enrollment. During my four years at Yune University, I maintained a 3.9 GPA while holding leadership positions across several campus organizations. Being involved in multiple groups taught me how to not only lead but also how to communicate effectively. During the time period that I managed the Instagram and LinkedIn accounts for the university’s English department, I led a team of six other students. I know that at Social Ink, collaboration, creativity, and social awareness are highly valued. Last year, the company ran a Pets Go Social campaign that raised more than $75,000 for dog shelters. This reminds me of an initiative I led across Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube that resulted in an increase of 250 followers and 25 pets getting adopted within 48 hours. I am passionate about getting involved in the community, and Social Ink would give me the opportunity to use my social media skills for that purpose. I believe that my academic history as well as my experience running successful social media campaigns would make me an ideal candidate. I would like to further discuss my resume and overall qualifications in more detail. Please reach out at your earliest convenience regarding the Social Media Manager position with Social Ink. Sincerely, Sam Smith

College student cover letter template

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Your Email Address] [Your Phone Number] [Date] [Employer’s Name] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] Dear [Employer’s Name] I am writing to express my interest in the [job title] at [company name] as advertised on [job posting] and to share my enthusiasm for joining your team. As a highly motivated and adaptable college student studying [your major] at [University name], I am eager to contribute my skills and learn from the amazing opportunities your organization offers. Throughout my academic journey, I have developed a solid foundation in [relevant skills or qualifications] which I believe make me a great fit for this role. During my time at [University name], I developed abilities in [mention a few key skills relevant to the position]. I am particularly drawn to [company name] because of its impressive track record and for the diverse group of professionals who share my passion for [industry or field]. Your company’s emphasis on [company’s focus] and its commitment to innovation make it an ideal environment for a proactive learner like me. Enclosed is my resume which provides more details about my academic achievements and relevant experiences. I welcome the opportunity to discuss in more detail how my background aligns with your needs. Please feel free to reach out to me at [your phone number] or [your email address] to schedule an interview or discuss my application further. Thank you for considering my application Sincerely, [Your name]

Before writing your letter, do your research on the prospective employer and find out their name and contact information. You should also follow any guidelines the company may have for their cover letters. Here are some more tips to keep in mind when writing your letter:

Do your research. Before you begin writing your cover letter, start researching the prospective employer. This goes beyond knowing when the company was first founded or the name of the current CEO. Find out what the work culture is like, what initiatives the organization has spearheaded, and what some of the current goals are. LinkedIn is one of the best resources for digging deeper when it comes to doing your homework on a company.

Follow the guidelines . Sometimes we can get wrapped up in the overall picture and overlook the small details. When it comes to applying for a job , you want to ensure that you are following the instructions exactly as they are given. If the internship or job posting asks for the cover letter to be saved in a certain format for email or be addressed to a specific person, make sure to follow the guidelines.

Provide up-to-date contact details. Make sure that you give the hiring manager your current contact information. This is a more common issue when the same cover letter template is reused, but this also is another reason why tailoring your letter is important. Clearly articulate to the hiring manager that they can reach you at any of the provided contact methods.

Confirm the recipient’s contact information. We already covered including the hiring manager’s contact information at the top of your letter but want to reiterate that you should verify these details. You should also confirm the email address when submitting electronically. If you send your resume and cover letter to the wrong recipient, you will miss out on the opportunity. You can always find the proper contact information within the job listing.

Add a subject line. This is a tip specifically for emailing your college cover letter. Every proper email needs a subject line that informs the intended recipient of what the message will be regarding. For your subject line, keep it simple with the position or internship that you are applying for, and your name.

Perfect your cover letter. Look at your cover letter and make sure that you have covered all of the basic structural elements . Did you start with a strong introduction to who you are? Did you highlight your education and how it has prepared you for the position? Will the reader be able to see your passion for their organization? Ask yourself if the hiring manager can get a definite sense of why you would be the best fit for the job.

It is always a good idea to reread your cover letter several times and have at least one other person look it over. Many students and alumni will have access to career service professionals or counselors who can assist with feedback. If not, having a trusted friend or family member with a strong sense of detail is also an excellent option.

Remember to show gratitude. It’s important to show your gratitude at the end of your letter. It shows that you are professional and appreciative of the hiring manager’s time.

Do college students need a cover letter?

Yes, college students should write a cover letter because it can be just as important as your resume. Your cover letter should address the recipient and show off your academic achievements. It’s also a great way to introduce yourself to potential employers.

What is a college student’s cover letter?

A college student’s cover letter is a cover letter that accompanies your resume when you apply for positions. This is similar to a regular cover letter, but you will include any academic achievements, GPA, or extracurriculars you are involved in that would be relevant to the job.

Harvard Extension School – Resume and Cover Letters

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Caitlin Mazur is a freelance writer at Zippia. Caitlin is passionate about helping Zippia’s readers land the jobs of their dreams by offering content that discusses job-seeking advice based on experience and extensive research. Caitlin holds a degree in English from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA.

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.

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College Student Cover Letter Example (w/ Tips for 2024)

Navigating college, you've aced your exams, written A++ research papers, and delivered exciting presentations.

Your academic journey has shaped you into a specialist in your domain, and the world is eager to see what you bring...

Yet, the challenge of writing a college student cover letter feels more daunting than that trigonometry class you dreaded in your sophomore year.

Here's the good news: We've got your back!

By the end of this article, you'll know exactly what you have to do to write your student cover letter. Here’s what we’re going to cover:

• A Perfect College Student Cover Letter Example (to Inspire You to Write Yours)
• 5 Steps to Writing an Effective Student Cover Letter
• 3 Tips to Take Your Cover Letter from “Good” to “Great”

Let's dive in!

College Student Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect College Student Cover Letter

You've just witnessed what a job-winning cover letter looks like. Now, it's your turn to craft one!

Just follow these 5 steps, and you’ll be as good as gold!

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

When crafting your college student cover letter, it's essential to kick things off with your contact details . Just like on your resume, these should sit in the header of your cover letter.

Here's a breakdown of what to include:

• Full Name. Your first and last name should proudly sit at the top of the page.
• Intended Job Title. Match the job title on your cover letter to the specific position you're seeking. (E.g.: If you’re applying for the job of “Junior Marketing Manager,” use those exact words and not “Marketing Specialist" or “Advertising Executive.”)
• Email Address. Choose an email address that's professional and straightforward. A combination of your first and last name is a safe bet. (e.g.: [email protected] is good but [email protected] is not.)
• Phone Number. Ensure your provided phone number is accurate so that the hiring manager can reach you. If you're applying for a job in another country, add the international dial code.
• Location. Your city and state will suffice, no need to mention the address. However, if you're seeking a remote position or planning to relocate, be sure to mention it.
• Relevant Links (optional). If you have any relevant websites or social media profiles, such as LinkedIn, feel free to include them.

Once your own contact information is in place, it's time to add the hiring manager's details:

• Company Name. Clearly state the company you're applying to.
• Hiring Manager's Name. If you can find the name of the hiring manager for the specific department you're interested in, include it.
• Location. Specify the city and state or country of the company, especially if it's a global organization.
• Email Address (optional). If you manage to find the hiring manager's email address, it's a nice touch to include it.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you've got all your college student cover letter's contact info in place, the next step is addressing your letter properly.

You can always go for something generic like "To Whom It May Concern,” but if you want to stand out, you’re better off addressing the hiring manager directly .

Start by doing a bit of research. Take a look at the job listing, the company's website, or even their LinkedIn profiles. This will help you find the name and email address of the person who'll be reading your cover letter.

Next, address them in a formal but friendly way. You can use "Ms." or "Mr." followed by their last name. If you're unsure about their gender or marital status, just use their full name. Here are some examples:

• Dear Ms. Rodriguez
• Dear Alex Rodriguez

If you can't find any specific info about the hiring manager or the department head, it's okay to address your letter to the department or the company in general. Just keep it friendly and professional:

• Dear Marketing Department
• Dear Marketing Team
• Dear Human Resources
• Dear Hiring Team

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

Hiring managers typically spend around seven seconds evaluating a college student's application before deciding whether to read it thoroughly. So, making a strong first impression in your cover letter is vital.

In the opening paragraph, be sure to introduce yourself and explain why you're interested in the position. Expressing your enthusiasm for the industry or the specific job can grab the hiring manager's attention.

Doing a bit of research on the company can be very helpful here. The more you know about the employer, the better you can emphasize how well you'd fit into their work culture. This demonstrates that you're not just applying to random companies but are genuinely interested in this particular role.

You can also kick off your cover letter by mentioning a noteworthy achievement or showcasing the skills that make you an ideal candidate. Keep this paragraph short, though. The goal is to spark the hiring manager's interest and encourage them to read into your cover letter's details.

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

The body of your college student cover letter is your chance to provide in-depth details that truly showcase why you're a perfect fit for the job.

Discuss courses, projects, or experiences that have given you skills relevant to the role. Additionally, share any extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or internships that align with the position.

For instance, if you're applying for a marketing role and you managed a social media campaign for a college club, that would be perfect to mention. It's also beneficial to highlight any soft skills, such as communication or teamwork, and give examples of when you've put them to use.

Next, demonstrate that you've done your research by mentioning something specific about the company that resonates with you, whether it's their mission, a product, or a recent accomplishment. 

It's important to show how the company’s values or goals align with your experiences or aspirations. Every cover letter should be tailor-made for the job you're applying for, so make sure to emphasize experiences and skills that match the job description. 

It can also be helpful to incorporate keywords from the job posting, especially if the company uses applicant scanning software for initial screening.That said, avoid the temptation to simply rehash your college resume - your cover letter should be a supplementary document, not a copy-paste.

Want to learn what a great cover letter looks like in different fields? Check out our cover letter examples !

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Wrapping up your college student cover letter is the final touch that can leave a lasting impression.

It's essential to conclude on a strong note, ensuring that your conclusion reinforces why you're an excellent fit for the role.

In your conclusion, confidently recap your qualifications and the skills that set you apart from other candidates in the college student industry. Reiterate how your experiences align perfectly with the job.

Following your conclusion, it's time to include a call to action. Encourage the hiring manager to take the next step, such as initiating a discussion about your application. This proactive approach can significantly increase your chances of securing an interview.

Finally, select an appropriate closing line and follow it with your full name to end your letter like a pro. 

Please feel free to contact me at the provided email or phone number to arrange an interview. I eagerly await the opportunity to discuss my application at your earliest convenience.

Warm regards,

Jodie Sawkins

And finally, if you prefer to explore alternative sign-offs to "Warm regards," here are some options:

• Best regards,
• Respectfully,
• Thank you for your consideration,

3 Essential College Student Cover Letter Tips

You've got the basics of cover letters down, and now it's time to take your college student cover letter to the next level with some essential tips . 

#1. Match Your Resume

When you're a college student applying for a job, it's important to maintain a consistent application style.

Make sure your cover letter's format and layout closely mirror your resume template to create a professional and organized impression. 

Align your text and contact details neatly on the page, keep font styles and sizes uniform, and set appropriate margins and line spacing. 

By doing this, you'll present a polished and cohesive application while ensuring your cover letter stays on a single page.

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

Don't want the hassle of starting from scratch? We've got you covered! Our cover letter templates are designed to save you time and ensure your cover letter pairs perfectly with your resume. 

Crafted with insights from the world’s leading hiring managers, our templates meet industry standards and look fantastic.

#2. Focus on Extracurricular Activities & Internships

Chances are, as a student, you don’t have a lot of hands-on professional work experience.

That doesn’t mean you lack valuable experience that can impress potential employers.

Extracurricular activities and internships can play a pivotal role in showcasing your skills, dedication, leadership, and adaptability.

Participating in clubs, organizations, or sports can demonstrate skills like teamwork, leadership, time management, and problem-solving. For instance, if you were the captain of a sports team, it suggests leadership and dedication. If you were part of a debate club, it shows strong communication and critical thinking skills.

#3. Proofread the Final Draft

Proofreading your final draft is a crucial step when polishing your college student cover letter. Typos and bad grammar can quickly sabotage a great first impression. 

First off, run your cover letter through Grammarly or any other online tool to find any mechanical errors.

Then, re-read it yourself carefully to make sure that the tool didn’t miss something important.

Finally, get a friend to give it a final review to make sure the cover letter is objectively good.

Key Takeaways

Hopefully, by now, you know all you need in order to create an effective college student cover letter.

Before you go and start applying for jobs, here’s a quick recap of everything we’ve covered in this article:

• Your cover letter is often the first introduction to a potential employer. Ensure it's polished, professional, and captures your qualifications effectively.
• Extracurricular activities, internships, and academic achievements can be valuable assets. Don't shy away from showcasing these experiences.
• One size doesn't fit all. Customize your cover letter for each position, emphasizing how your skills align with the job requirements.
• Hiring managers often skim through applications due to volume. Aim for clarity and brevity, getting straight to the point.
• Minor errors can be detrimental. Use online tools, seek feedback, and meticulously review your content before submission.
• Let your passion shine through. Employers value candidates who are not only qualified but also genuinely interested in the role and the company.

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Student cover letter examples

Getting a job while you’re a student can be a great way to earn extra cash. The trouble is, you often have little experience behind you, which can make your CV look rather sparse.

That’s where your cover letter comes in. This gives you a chance to go into more detail about your interests, studies and what makes you a good fit for the role.

Find out how to write a persuasive and engaging application, no matter how much experience you have, with our step-by-step guide and student cover letter examples below.

CV templates 

Student cover letter example 1

Student cover letter example 2

Student cover letter example 3

The example cover letters here should give you a good general idea on how your Student cover letter should be formatted and written.

The rest of this guide gives more specific guidance on how to create your own cover letter in this format, and even includes some templates you can copy and paste.

How to write a Student cover letter

A simple step-by-step guide to writing your very own winning cover letter.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

When you send a cover letter with a job application, you should always write your message into the body of your email – or the body of the messaging system if you are sending via a job website.

Why do this?

Simply because you want to get your message seen as soon as the recruiter opens your application.

If you attach the cover letter as a separate item, this means the recipient will have to open it before they can read it – slowing down the process and potentially causing frustration along the way.

So, write your cover note in the body of your email/message to ensure you make an instant connection with the reader.

Start with a friendly greeting

To kick your cover letter off, start with a friendly greeting to build rapport with the recruiter instantly.

Your greeting should be personable but professional. Not too casual, but not too formal either

Go with something like…

• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid old-fashioned greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very formal companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you’ve opened up the cover letter with a warm greeting to start building a relationship, it is time to identify which role you want to apply for.

Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so you need to ensure you apply to the correct one.

Be very specific and use a reference number if you can find one.

• I am interested in applying for the position of *Student job* with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 406f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for a junior project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The sole objective of your cover letter is to motivate recruiters into to opening your CV. And you achieve this by quickly explaining your suitability to the roles you are applying for.

Take a look at the job descriptions you are applying to, and make note of the most important skills and qualifications being asked for.

Then, when crafting your cover letter, make your suitability the central focus.

Explain why you are the best qualified candidate, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider you for the job.

Keep it short and sharp

It is best to keep your cover letter brief if you want to ensure you hold the attention of busy recruiters and hiring managers. A lengthy cover letter will probably not get read in full, so keep yours to around 3-6 sentences and save the real detail for your CV.

Remember the purpose of your cover letter is to quickly get recruiters to notice you and encourage them to open your CV, so it only needs to include the highlights of your experience.

Sign off professionally

To finish off your cover note, add a professional signature to the bottom, stating your important contact details and information.

This not only provides recruiters with multiple means of contacting you, but it also adds a nice professional appearance to the cover letter, which shows that you know how to conduct yourself in the workplace.

Include the following points;

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Warm regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network – e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Aaron Smith Customer service professional 075557437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip : To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate document that you could copy in.

What to include in your Student cover letter

Here’s what kind of content you should include in your Student cover letter…

The exact info will obviously depend on your industry and experience level, but these are the essentials.

• Your relevant experience – Where have you worked and what type of jobs have you held?
• Your qualifications – Let recruiters know about your highest level of qualification to show them you have the credentials for the job.
• The impact you have made – Show how your actions have made a positive impact on previous employers; perhaps you’ve saved them money or helped them to acquire new customers?
• Your reasons for moving – Hiring managers will want to know why you are leaving your current or previous role, so give them a brief explanation.
• Your availability – When can you start a new job ? Recruiters will want to know how soon they can get you on board.

Don’t forget to tailor these points to the requirements of the job advert for best results.

Student cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Student cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

Good morning, Jon

I would like to submit my application for the Finance internship at CF Finance, where I believe my skills in financial analysis and investment strategies can make a valuable contribution.

As a highly driven Finance undergraduate student at Bristol University, I possess a strong track record of analysing complex financial data and making informed recommendations, evident from my selection for the prestigious JPMorgan 2-week intensive programme. In my current part time job at Lloyds TSB, I have honed my attention to detail, ensuring a 99% accuracy rate in cash balancing and implementing a new cash management system that reduced discrepancies by 30% within the first quarter.

Additionally, my experience working with the team at JPMorgan allowed me to develop financial models and reports, leading to the implementation of an automated financial reporting system that reduced reporting time by 5%.

I am eager to continue learning and to have the opportunity to work alongside the team at CF Finance. I am available for an interview at your convenience to further discuss my qualifications. Thank you for considering my application.

Kind regards,

Shana Johnson

I am an enthusiastic student in my first year of sixth form with excellent time management skills, seeking to apply for the retail assistant job at White Stuff.

In my current role as a Shop Assistant at Clarkson Newsagents, I serve up to 50 customers per shift and my proactive problem-solving approach has garnered 40 named positive feedbacks in the last six months, reflecting my dedication to exceptional customer service. Balancing academic responsibilities with work commitments, I have maintained excellent grades and actively participate in school fundraisers and community service projects. Organising events such as quiz nights and completing a sponsored half marathon showcase my passion for teamwork and strong work ethic.

I am excited to contribute my customer service skills and attention to detail to your retail team. I am available for an interview from 22nd March, and I am eager to discuss how my skills can benefit your shop’s success.

Thank you for considering my application.

Rachel Blake

I hope you are well. I am a highly motivated and detail-oriented Chemistry student at the University of Newcastle, specialising in organic synthesis with technical expertise in using HPLC and GC-MS for quality checking and chemical identification, and I am writing to express my interest in your master’s program.

With a proven track record of streamlining laboratory workflows during group projects, I am passionate about delivering accurate and efficient results in my research. During my time as a Peer Tutor at UNSU, I took on the responsibility of assisting freshman chemistry students, providing one-on-one tutoring and conducting revision workshops. Through these efforts, I successfully elevated the average test scores by an impressive 15% within just two years, showcasing my ability to effectively communicate complex concepts and support students in their academic journey. I am keen to further hone my analytical skills and contribute to cutting-edge research projects, and the research topics and innovative environment of your university laboratory aligns perfectly with my career aspirations.

I sincerely appreciate your consideration of my application and I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

All the best,

Fraser Bleaker

Writing a strong attention-grabbing cover letter is a vital step in landing a good Student job.

Use the tips, strategies and examples above to get more responses from you job applications and start lining job interview up.

Good luck with your job search!

Cover Letter Examples for Students and Recent Graduates

The Balance / Luyi Wang

• Cover Letters
• Skills & Keywords
• Salary & Benefits
• Letters & Emails
• Job Listings
• Job Interviews
• Career Advice
• Work-From-Home Jobs
• Internships

What to Include in Your Cover Letter

College graduate cover letter example, student / recent graduate cover letter templates, student and recent graduate cover letter samples, how to write a cover letter, cover letter format and presentation tips.

If you're a student or a new grad, you may not have much experience in the workforce. This can make building a resume and writing a cover letter challenging. After all, if you haven't worked previously, what information can you include in these two documents?

Fortunately, on-the-job experience is not the only thing that shows your abilities. Here's guidance on what to include in your resume and cover letter, along with cover letter examples and cover letter templates are designed especially for high school students, as well as for college students and recent graduates seeking employment.

Academic Achievements and Extracurricular Activities

You can mention volunteer work, academic achievements, participation in clubs or activities (particularly those in which you held leadership roles), and internships. Your academic background is also an asset. Include details that are relevant to the position you want (use the job description as your guide to the qualities and training the employer seeks).

GPA and Honors

If you are an honors student with a GPA higher than 3.5, it is a good idea to mention this on a cover letter as well, along with any honors societies you have been inducted into.

Skills and Abilities

Other things you can mention are soft skills—interpersonal “people” skills like creative thinking, communication, teamwork, or time management that will help you to adapt easily to the people and clients or customers you will be working with.

Your goal in this cover letter is to show how you would be an asset to the company, describing the skills you bring that would allow you to perform well in the position.

Below, you'll find a list of student cover letters, listed by position and level of experience, to help you develop your own cover letter. 

Watch Now: 7 Tips for Finding Your First Job

You can use this sample as a model to write a college graduate cover letter. Download the template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online), or read the text version below.

College Graduate Cover Letter Example (Text Version)

Lucy Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345

555-555-5555 lucy.applicant@email.com

October 18, 2021

Eric Lee Media Director Kansai Collaborative Arts 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Mr. Lee:

I am writing to you to express interest in the graphic design position as advertised on Indeed.com. As a recent graduate with experience in 3-D animation software and the Adobe suite of software, I believe I am a strong candidate for a position at Kansai Collaborative Arts.

 During my time at the University of Northern State, I was awarded the top prize in the student design competition for my version of an app that would allow students to learn Japanese characters on their own time.

In addition to graduating with a 3.75 GPA, I spent a semester at a university in Japan, and I have strong conversational skills in the Japanese language. I believe this would be an asset, as I know your studio does a lot of collaborations with major design studios in Japan.

 Although I am a recent college graduate, my maturity, artistic skills, ability to work with others, and knowledge of the Japanese language and culture will make me an asset to your studio.

 I have enclosed my resume and will email you within the next week to see if we can arrange a time to speak further. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Signature  (hard copy letter)

Before you can begin writing your cover letter, it's important to know the guidelines governing these letters. Unlike a casual email to a friend, there are set standards for how to greet recipients, organize the letter's content, and much more. That's where templates can help: they allow you to know what information to put where, and they help you format your letter correctly. Review the templates below: 

• Cover Letter Format
• Cover Letter Template
• Email Cover Letter Template
• Email Cover Letter Sample
• Cover Letter Sample: General
• Cover Letter Sample: Block Format
• Microsoft Word Cover Letter Templates

These lists of cover letters include both general examples that will help you format your letter, as well as sample cover letters used to apply for specific positions, such as roles as a nanny or a marketing assistant.

Do not copy these sample letters—instead, use them as a guide to help you know what kind of information to include, and how to format your letter. 

Entry-Level Cover Letters

Have a look at these samples to see how best to present your experience when applying for an entry-level job.

• Entry Level Inquiry Letter
• Cover Letter Sample: Entry-Level

Student Cover Letters

As a student, the information you should emphasize in your cover letter will vary depending upon your level of education. Here are examples of effective cover letters created for students at the high school, college, and graduate levels.

• Recent College Graduate Sample #1
• Recent College Graduate Sample #2
• Response to Job Posting
• College Senior
• Graduate Student
• Networking Letter

Job-Specific Cover Letters

These cover letter samples target specific career fields. They demonstrate how to incorporate industry-specific keywords into your narrative.

• Email Cover Letter - Psychology Job
• Internship Cover Letter
• Finance Internship Program
• Entry Level Marketing

Cover Letters for Summer and Part-Time Jobs

Being able to write an enthusiastic and informative cover letter will set you apart from your competition when you apply for summer or part-time jobs while you’re still in school.

Make sure you send your cover letter and resume as soon as possible after a job is announced—these opportunities are snatched up quickly.

These samples can be modified to both summer and part-time work.

• Part-Time Job
• Summer Assistant Job
• Email Summer Job
• Summer Job #1
• Summer Job #2
• Summer Job Email Message
• Camp Counselor
• Email Editorial Assistant
• Sales Associate
• Summer Camp

This guide to writing a cover letter will walk you through everything you need to know to write a cover letter, including what to include in the letter, how to write it, and the proper cover letter format. Plus, find out about how to write a targeted cover letter and browse through additional cover letter samples and examples.

Here are cover letter tips and techniques for writing top-notch cover letters to send with your resume, including information about cover letter format and presentation, choosing a type of cover letter, writing custom cover letters, and cover letter examples and templates.

• Student Resume Examples, Templates, and Writing Tips
• Marketing Cover Letter Example and Writing Tips
• Recommendation Letter Examples, Templates, and Tips
• Sample Professional Letter Formats
• Reference Letter Examples
• Goodbye Letter Examples and Writing Tips
• Professional Letter and Email Examples
• Types of Professional Business Letters
• Sample Cover Letters for a Career Office Job Posting
• Business Letter Format With Examples
• Retail Cover Letter Examples and Writing Tips
• Teaching Assistant Cover Letter Samples
• Resume and Cover Letter Examples Listed By Job
• Speech Pathologist Resume and Cover Letter Examples
• Consulting Cover Letter Samples and Writing Tips
• Admissions Counselor Cover Letter and Resume Examples

Free cover letter template for students and new grads

Download this professional cover letter template to boost your job applications.

A well-written cover letter will make your job application stand out to employers. But how do you organize a cover letter and what should you include? We’ve created a professional template that you can download to create a letter that will impress recruiters. And be sure to download our corresponding resume template so your application looks seamless.

Want personalized guidance on your cover letter? Don't forget to consult your school's career services center !

The sections of the cover letter are:

Contact information: Include your first and last name, city and state, phone number and email address. You can include an additional link, like an online portfolio, if relevant to the role you’re applying for.

Greeting: A personalized cover letter goes a long way, so try to find the name of the hiring manager and address the letter to them. If you can’t find their name, “Dear Hiring Manager” will suffice.

The introduction: The opening paragraph should get the attention of the reader and make them want to learn more about you. You can briefly explain why you’re excited to apply for the job, or tell a short story that is relevant to the position. Make this as personal as possible, and explain how the role connects to your passions and interests! This is also a great place to mention if you're met the recruiter (or someone else from the company) at a career fair or another networking opportunity.

Your skills and experience: The main section of the cover letter summarizes your relevant skills and experiences . Be sure to include industry-specific or technical skills needed in the role. You can talk about your soft skills like leadership or communication, with examples of times that you’ve demonstrated them. Use the STAR method to tell an effective story about how you've applied your skills. Don't just repeat your resume—use this as a chance to show off your personality as well.

Closing: End your cover letter by thanking the employer for considering your application. Let them know you look forward to discussing your experience, or similar statement of interest in next steps. Sign your letter politely: ”Sincerely” or “Best regards” are common send-offs.

To create your cover letter using the template:

• View the template document here .
• Click File in the upper left-hand corner.
• Select Make a Copy  in Google docs or  Download  as a Word document.

4. If you made a copy, create a name for it and click  OK .

• Write your cover letter, and tailor it for each application. (That includes changing the greeting, job title/company, as well as any examples and stories to make sure they are the most relevant ones for the role). Be sure to use clear file names so you never get your cover letters mixed up.
• Save as a PDF and upload to your Handshake profile to include it in your application!

Find the right jobs for you. Get hired.

Related stories, most recent stories.

Student Cover Letter Example

Cover letter examples, cover letter guidelines, how to format an student cover letter, cover letter header, cover letter header examples for student, how to make your cover letter header stand out:, cover letter greeting, cover letter greeting examples for student, best cover letter greetings:, cover letter introduction, cover letter intro examples for student, how to make your cover letter intro stand out:, cover letter body, cover letter body examples for student, how to make your cover letter body stand out:, cover letter closing, cover letter closing paragraph examples for student, how to close your cover letter in a memorable way:, pair your cover letter with a foundational resume, key cover letter faqs for student.

Starting a student cover letter involves introducing yourself, stating the position you're applying for, and briefly explaining why you're interested in the role. It's crucial to make a strong first impression. For instance, you could start with "My name is [Your Name], a [Your Major] major at [Your University]. I am writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]." Then, mention something that drew you to the company or role, such as a shared value or mission, or a unique aspect of the job that aligns with your career goals. This shows that you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the position.

The best way for students to end a cover letter is by expressing gratitude and showing enthusiasm for the potential opportunity. A closing statement like, "Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your team and look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with your needs" would be appropriate. This not only shows politeness but also eagerness and confidence. After the closing statement, students should end with a formal closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by their name. It's also important to include contact information, such as an email address or phone number, for easy follow-up.

Students should include the following elements in a cover letter: 1. Contact Information: At the top of the cover letter, students should include their name, address, phone number, and email address. If applicable, they can also include their LinkedIn profile or professional website. 2. Salutation: The cover letter should start with a professional greeting. If possible, students should address the letter to the specific person who will be reading it. 3. Introduction: In the first paragraph, students should introduce themselves and state the position they are applying for. They can also mention how they learned about the job opening. 4. Body: This is the main part of the cover letter where students should highlight their skills, experiences, and achievements that are relevant to the job. They should explain why they are a good fit for the position and the company. It's important to provide specific examples that demonstrate these qualifications. 5. Conclusion: In the closing paragraph, students should reiterate their interest in the position and thank the employer for considering their application. They can also indicate their availability for an interview. 6. Signature: The cover letter should end with a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by the student's full name. In addition to these elements, students should remember to tailor each cover letter to the specific job and company. They should do some research about the company and use this information to explain why they are interested in working there. The cover letter should be concise, well-organized, and free of spelling and grammar errors. It's also a good idea to include keywords from the job description to show that the student is a good match for the position.

Related Cover Letters for Student

Related resumes for student, try our ai cover letter generator.

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Student Internship Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Internships are an important step in any young professional’s career. These positions give you an entryway into the industry of your choice, helping you to learn the ropes and build industry connections that can lead to long-term jobs down the line.

In this guide, we teach you five essential steps for writing a cover letter for an internship application. Continue reading to learn all about:

• Formatting a header for your intern cover letter
• Tailoring your intern cover letter to specific employers
• Writing a strong introduction for your intern cover letter
• Selecting the right skills and accomplishments for your intern cover letter
• Ending your intern cover letter with a memorable conclusion
• Finding useful job search resources for interns 

1. How to properly format a header for your intern cover letter

The first step to writing an excellent cover letter that wins you the internship of your dreams is to create a professionally-styled header.

A cover letter header is the first block of text a reader will see when looking at your cover letter. It helps to not only give the letter structure but to also create a sense of visual flow.

In your header, you should include:

• Your name and professional title
• Your professional contact information
• The name of the company you are applying for an internship at
• The address of the company (this detail is especially important if a company has multiple locations)

Here is an example of a well-formatted intern cover letter header

Mack Jones , Engineering Student & Intern (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/mack-jones

To: Applejax Engineering Internship & Hiring Department 1234 Street Address Birmingham, AL

Create your cover letter fast with artificial intelligence.

2. how to tailor your intern cover letter to specific employers.

In addition to creating a header, another step to take is to research the employer thoroughly before beginning to write your cover letter.

Using the information you uncover in your research, you can tailor your cover letter to a specific company and employer. For instance, if a company is involved in a major project, you can highlight which of your skills can contribute to tasks associated with the project.

You should also look up who at a company is responsible for hiring, as this is the person most likely to read your cover letter. Once you discover who this person is, address them directly in your cover letter greeting.

Here are 3 examples of personalized cover letter greetings

Dear Intern Manager Jane Casey,

• Dear Ms. Jane Casey,
• Dear Hiring Manager Paul Newly

3. How to craft a strong introduction for your intern cover letter

Now that you have your header in place and your research ready to go, you can begin writing the body text of your cover letter.

The first paragraph you will write is your introduction . This should feature key information, such as:

• A brief overview of your professional and academic history

If you are a student applying for an internship, you likely lack extensive professional experience. Instead, you should focus on highlighting your relevant academic beckground.

• A statement on why you are enthusiastic about applying to this company
• A mutual acquaintance

Naming a mutual acquaintance when possible can go a long way in terms of giving you a competitive edge over others applying for an internship.

Here is an example of a strong introduction from an intern’s cover letter

As a senior at Appalachian State University, I have studied communications and public relations for more than three years. In my time at the university, I served as the Assistant Editor and later as the Chief Editor of the school newspaper. While working for the school paper, I met your company’s Head of PR, Mr. John Eggleston, whom I interviewed for a feature. Impressed with my professionalism, Mr. Eggleston strongly suggested I apply for this internship.

Find out your resume score!

4. How to select the best skills and accomplishments for your intern cover letter

After completing your introduction, you can now write the remaining body paragraphs of your letter.

The body paragraphs are where you will provide more in-depth insights into who you are, what skills you possess, and what accomplishments you have achieved that are relevant to the position.

Whenever possible, you should include quantifiable data points in your descriptions, such as statistics relating to a specific accomplishment. For instance, a customer service representative could list the exact percentage of sales they increased during a set timeframe.

Always aim to include the most relevant information possible and find ways to draw connections between your skills and the requirements of the internship.

Here are 6 examples of skills to describe in an intern cover letter

• Communication (describe your communication style)
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Independence
• Critical thinking
• Problem-solving
• Time management

Here is an example of how to describe an accomplishment in an intern cover letter

Developed and executed a successful social media campaign: During my marketing internship at XYZ Company, I took the lead in developing and executing a social media campaign aimed at increasing brand awareness and engagement. Through strategic content planning, targeted audience segmentation, and creative visuals, we achieved a 30% increase in social media followers and a 20% boost in overall engagement. This campaign not only expanded the company's online presence but also generated valuable leads and customer interactions.

Conducted market research to identify new target segments: As an intern at ABC Corporation, I was responsible for conducting market research to identify untapped target segments for a new product launch. Through surveys, focus groups, and competitor analysis, I gathered valuable insights into consumer preferences and market trends. Based on my research findings, I developed a comprehensive target segment profile and recommended strategic marketing initiatives to capture these segments. The insights provided by my research contributed to the successful launch and positioning of the product in the market.

Assisted in the development and execution of a successful email marketing campaign: During my internship at DEF Company, I actively contributed to the planning and execution of an email marketing campaign. I collaborated with the marketing team to create engaging email content, design visually appealing templates, and segment the target audience based on demographic and behavioral factors. As a result of the campaign, we achieved a 25% increase in email open rates and a 15% conversion rate, effectively driving sales and customer engagement.

5. How to end your intern cover letter with a memorable conclusion

Last but not least, the final step in writing an intern cover letter is to create a memorable conclusion .

Making a conclusion memorable ultimately comes down to letting the employer know how and when to contact you, as well as applying slight pressure by stating when you plan to follow up. This can encourage the employer to contact you quickly, increasing the chances of you earning an interview.

Don’t forget to include a formal sign-off (sincerely, many thanks, etc.) to keep your cover letter sounding professional through the very end.

Using email signature generators to create a polished and professional signature can also leave a lasting impression on the recipient.

Here is an example of a memorable conclusion from an intern cover letter

It is with great excitement that I submit this application and letter for your consideration. I am eager to hear from you and hope to speak directly within the next week. You may reach me any day of the week between the hours of 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., or from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the evenings. If I have not heard back by next Monday morning, I plan to follow up via phone call at that time.

Best Wishes,

[Applicant Name]

6. Useful job search resources for interns 

Stepping into the professional world as an intern can be thrilling yet overwhelming. Navigating through job posts, company profiles, and application expectations can seem like a maze.

But don't fret, we've got your back. Here are some excellent resources to uncomplicate your internship hunt:

• Glassdoor: A one-stop shop to explore company reviews, salary insights, and potential interview questions. They also have a comprehensive section dedicated to internships across industries.
• LinkedIn:  The world's largest professional network can be a goldmine for internships. Leverage features such as job alerts and company pages to hone your search.
• Indeed:  Known for its robust job listings, Indeed makes finding internships straightforward with its user-friendly interface and advanced search options. 
• InternMatch:   A resource geared towards helping you find the perfect internship. You can filter by city, industry, and even specific skills.
• Your university's career services:  Often overlooked, but your institution's career centre can provide personalized advice, contact with potential employers, and insight into upcoming job fairs and networking events.

Remember, while these platforms can streamline your search, landing the perfect internship also hinges on a well-written cover letter. So be sure to stand out from the crowd and show your potential employer who they'd miss out on if they didn't bring you onboard!

Student Internship Cover Letter FAQ

While the structure and core content of your cover letter should remain the same, an unpaid internship cover letter might include a section explaining why you're willing to forego pay. This could be due to the valuable experience it offers, the chance to work with specific professionals, or because the internship aligns with your career goals.

Absolutely. If you lack professional experience, academic projects are a great way to showcase your skills and initiative. Just make sure to explain how the project is relevant to the internship you're applying for.

While it might save time, it's not the best strategy. Hiring managers can usually tell when a cover letter has been recycled. Customize your cover letter to match each position. Is it more work? Yes. But will it improve your chances of landing the internship? Absolutely.

If it's possible, try to find out the hiring manager's name – LinkedIn or the company's website can be good places to start your search. If not, it's safer to use a generic greeting like "Dear Hiring Manager" as opposed to "To Whom It May Concern," which can seem outdated.

Yes, you can. Remember that internships are learning experiences. What's critical is showcasing your willingness to learn and the skills you do have in your cover letter. Don't focus solely on what you lack, but more on what you'll bring to the company.

Martin Poduška

Martin is a resume expert and career advice writer at Kickresume. In his five years at Kickresume, he has written hundreds of in-depth, painstakingly researched resume advice articles and, as chief editor, he has also edited and revised every single article on this website. Tens of thousands of job seekers read Martin’s resume advice every month. He holds a degree in English from the University of St Andrews and a degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Amsterdam .

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Harvard announces return to required testing

Leading researchers cite strong evidence that testing expands opportunity

Students applying to Harvard College for fall 2025 admission will be required to submit standardized test scores, the Faculty of Arts and Sciences announced on Thursday. This new policy will be applied to the Class of 2029 admissions cycle and will be formally assessed at regular intervals.

For the Class of 2029 admissions cycle, Harvard will require submission of scores for the SAT or ACT. In exceptional cases in which applicants are unable to access SAT or ACT testing, other eligible tests will be accepted.

In a message to the FAS community on Thursday, Edgerley Family Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences Hopi Hoekstra foregrounded “a number of factors” that underscored the decision.

“Standardized tests are a means for all students, regardless of their background and life experience, to provide information that is predictive of success in college and beyond,” she said. “Indeed, when students have the option of not submitting their test scores, they may choose to withhold information that, when interpreted by the admissions committee in the context of the local norms of their school, could have potentially helped their application. In short, more information, especially such strongly predictive information, is valuable for identifying talent from across the socioeconomic range.”

In research published last year, Harvard Professors Raj Chetty and David J. Deming and co-author John N. Friedman used data from more than 400 institutions and about 3.5 million undergrads per year to better understand socioeconomic diversity and admissions. Standardized tests emerged as an important tool to identify promising students at less-well-resourced high schools, particularly when paired with other academic credentials.

“Critics correctly note that standardized tests are not an unbiased measure of students’ qualifications, as students from higher-income families often have greater access to test prep and other resources,” said Chetty, the William A. Ackman Professor of Public Economics and director of Opportunity Insights . “But the data reveal that other measures — recommendation letters, extracurriculars, essays — are even more prone to such biases. Considering standardized test scores is likely to make the admissions process at Harvard more meritocratic while increasing socioeconomic diversity.”

Deming, the Kennedy School’s Isabelle and Scott Black Professor of Political Economy and a professor of education and economics at the Ed School, pointed to access as a key issue.

“The virtue of standardized tests is their universality,” he said. “Not everyone can hire an expensive college coach to help them craft a personal essay. But everyone has the chance to ace the SAT or the ACT. While some barriers do exist, the widespread availability of the test provides, in my view, the fairest admissions policy for disadvantaged applicants.”

In June 2020, as the pandemic severely limited access to standardized testing, Harvard began a test-optional policy under which students could apply to the College without submitting scores. The admissions cycle for the Class of 2028 was the fourth for which students were able to apply without submitting test scores. However, admissions has welcomed applicants to submit test scores, and the majority of those who matriculated during the past four years did so.

“Test scores can provide important information about a student’s application,” said William R. Fitzsimmons, dean of admissions and financial aid. “However, they representonly one factor among many as our admissions committee considers the whole person in making its decisions. Admissions officers understand that not all students attend well-resourced schools, and those who come from modest economic backgrounds or first-generation college families may have had fewer opportunities to prepare for standardized tests.”

In recent years, nonprofits such as Khan Academy have offered robust test-prep tools at no charge. In her message, Hoekstra said that access to testing should never prevent a student from applying to Harvard, and included information for those who may not be able to access the SAT or ACT, as well as tools such as Schoolhouse.world and other sources for no-cost tutoring and no-cost test preparation.

“We recognize that in parts of the United States there may be fewer students than in the past taking SAT or ACT for their state universities — and international applicants can also face barriers to testing,” said Joy St. John, director of admissions. “We hope that promising students faced with such challenges will still apply, using alternative forms of testing.”

Said Hoekstra: “Fundamentally, we know that talent is universal, but opportunity is not. With this change, we hope to strengthen our ability to identify these promising students, and to give Harvard the opportunity to support their development as thinkers and leaders who will contribute to shaping our world.”

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Judge OKs phone surveys of jury pool for man charged in 4 University of Idaho student deaths

• Updated: Apr. 23, 2024, 2:16 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 23, 2024, 2:05 p.m.

Bryan Kohberger, right, is escorted into a courtroom for a hearing in Latah County District Court, Sept. 13, 2023, in Moscow, Idaho. A judge says defense attorneys for Kohberger, the man charged in the deaths of four University of Idaho students in late 2022, can resume phone surveys of potential jurors in the case. AP File Photo/Ted S. Warren

• The Associated Press

Defense attorneys for a man charged in the deaths of four University of Idaho students can resume phone surveys of potential jurors in the case, a judge has ruled.

Bryan Kohberger faces four murder charges in connection with the November 2022 stabbing deaths of Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves. A judge has entered a not guilty plea on Kohberger’s behalf, and prosecutors say they will seek the death penalty if he is convicted.

Kohberger’s defense team hired a consultant to survey potential jurors living near the university about things they might have seen, heard or read about the case. The phone survey included questions about Kohberger’s arrest, the type of car he owns, DNA evidence and a knife sheath found near one of the bodies. It also included questions about whether the person being surveyed had watched true crime-style shows about the case or other things they might have heard.

When prosecutors became aware of the survey earlier this year, they asked 2nd District Judge John Judge to order the defense team to stop, arguing that the surveys violated a broad gag order the judge had issued in the case. Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson said some of the questions could prejudice people who could be called to serve as jurors when the case goes to trial.

In a ruling issued Friday , Judge said the surveys could continue as long as the questions do not violate his gag order. Most of the questions included information already publicly available through court documents, the judge wrote in the ruling, and so did not violate the order.

Other questions about rumors people might have heard or crime documentaries they might have seen about the case were not part of the public record when the surveys began, but they have since been debated and discussed in open court — which means they, too, are now part of the public record and can be included in future surveys, Judge said.

The bodies of the four University of Idaho students were found at a rental home near campus on Nov. 13, 2022. Then a 29-year-old graduate student at nearby Washington State University, Kohberger was arrested Dec. 30, 2022, at his parents’ home in Monroe County. He had graduated from Northampton Community College in Bethlehem Township with an associate’s degree in psychology in 2018 and received a bachelor’s degree in 2020 from DeSales University in Upper Saucon Township, where he completed graduate studies in June 2022.

previous bryan kohberger news

• Bryan Kohberger attorney moves for change of venue, citing publicity, small community
• House where 4 University of Idaho students were killed is demolished
• Prosecutors in Idaho request summer trial dates for man accused of killing 4 university students

By REBECCA BOONE

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Protests in New York as US campuses brace for more unrest over Gaza war: Updates

NEW YORK − Protests loomed and negotiations inched forward Tuesday at NYU, Columbia and elsewhere as colleges across the nation grappled with unrest after days of demonstrations, campus closures and arrests swirling around U.S. support for Israel in its war on Hamas.

The protests fueled a national debate over free speech and student demonstrations amid growing unrest over the fate of Palestinians in Gaza and concerns for the safety of Jewish students at home. Dozens of protesters were arrested Monday at pro-Palestinian demonstrations at Yale University in Connecticut and New York University in Manhattan.

Hundreds of students at Stanford University in Northern California held a walkout. At the University of California, Berkeley, students erected a Free Palestine Encampment. New York's Columbia University, the epicenter of the demonstrations, announced classes will provide a virtual learning option − where technology permits − until spring semester ends May 10.

"Safety is our highest priority as we strive to support our students’ learning and all the required academic operations," the university said in a statement.

The protests stem from the clash between Hamas and Israel, ignited by the militant group's assault on Israeli communities Oct. 7 that killed almost 1,200 people. Israel's subsequent bombardment and invasion of Gaza has killed tens of thousands of Palestinians − militants and civilians; men, women and children − and fueled a dire humanitarian crisis.

Columbia cancels in-person classes: Protesters arrested at Yale and NYU

Developments:

∎ Student protesters inside the Columbia encampment barred the media from entering the space Tuesday. University administrators told USA TODAY it was up to students whether to allow in reporters, who spoke with student activists just outside the encampment.

∎ Hours after dozens of protesters were arrested Monday at Yale, Jews for Ceasefire held a "Seder in the Streets." Seder is a ritual dinner marking the start of Passover. The Yale encampment, set up last week, drew several hundred people calling on the university to drop investments to military weapons manufacturers.

∎ At the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, about 25 tents housed students calling for the university to divest from Israeli investments. Palestinian flags waved around the square, with banners and signs bearing messages in support of Palestinians. Two large banners read: "Encampment For Gaza! Divest Now!" and "Long Live The Intifada (uprising)."

Columbia president: 'It is essential' that encampment be dismantled

Columbia University President Minouche Shafik said Tuesday night that the actions taken by the university are justified.

"I fully support the importance of free speech, respect the right to demonstrate, and recognize that many of the protestors have gathered peacefully," Shafik said in an email obtained by USA TODAY that was sent to students and faculty. "However, the encampment raises serious safety concerns, disrupts campus life, and has created a tense and at times hostile environment for many members of our community. It is essential that we move forward with a plan to dismantle it."

She said a small group of university leaders have been speaking with student organizers "to discuss the basis for dismantling the encampment." Those talks are facing a deadline of midnight tonight to reach agreement, Shafik said.

Shafik added, "I very much hope these discussions are successful. If they are not, we will have to consider alternative options for clearing the west lawn and restoring calm to campus so that students can complete the term and graduate."

But a group called Columbia Students for Justice in Palestine released a statement late Tuesday and said that they refused to negotiate with university officials.

"Late tonight, Columbia University threatened (Columbia University Apartheid Divest) negotiators to call both the National Guard and NYPD if we do not acquiesce to their demands," the statement read , adding: "We remain steadfast in our convictions and will not be intimidated by the University's disturbing threat of an escalation of violence."

Last week, Shafik trekked to Washington for a congressional hearing about antisemitism on Columbia’s campus. She faced a salvo of tough questions from lawmakers expressing dismay about reports that Jewish students have felt unsafe since Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack.

A similar hearing in December featuring the presidents of Harvard University and the University of Pennsylvania resulted in controversial clashes that ultimately cost them their jobs.

While Shafik was in Washington, students set up camps on lawns at the center of campus, demanding the university sever all its ties to Israel. The following morning, Shafik called in the New York City Police Department to clear out the demonstrators. Officers arrested more than 100 people. The rallies continued and Shafik essentially closed the campus Monday, ordering classes to be held remotely.

− Rachel Barber, Zachary Schermele

Jewish and Palestinian students address arrests, fear for safety

Several students who had been arrested by New York City police gathered outside the Columbia president’s residence a couple of blocks from the main campus on Tuesday afternoon. Police stood to the side as students took turns reading prepared remarks and responding to reporters’ questions.

Many of the arrested students are Jewish, and three Barnard students refuted the idea they were any less Jewish for protesting against Israel. “We have continually had to defend our religious identities, even when there's a long tradition behind them,” said student Sarah Borus, who also said she lost her housing after being arrested.

Marianne Hirsch, an English professor at Columbia who is also Jewish and teaches Holocaust studies, said the arrests of students and constant police presence “creates an atmosphere of fear and intimidation.”

“This is not what the university is about,” she said. “This amplifies divisions among students, amongst Jewish students.”

Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian graduate student who is negotiating with Columbia on behalf of student organizers, said he had rarely spoken out before because he is on an F-1 student visa and feared deportation if he was arrested. But he said Palestinian and Arab students had also felt unsafe, in addition to fearing for their families back home.

“Columbia has not acknowledged this pain,” he said.

Students pledge to camp until Columbia cuts ties with Israel

Outside the Columbia encampment, students held a press conference to reiterate their demand that the university cut ties with Israel. Students entered and exited the space as classes continued Tuesday, now also available remotely.

“We have made it clear that we will be occupying this lawn until all of our demands are met,” Khymani James, a Columbia student and an encampment organizer, told reporters. He said the encampment has a lead negotiator with the university but declined to elaborate.

The demands include complete divestment from Israel, including a student-exchange program and Columbia's campus in Tel Aviv, as well as financial transparency for the school’s investments. The students also demand amnesty for the students and faculty disciplined or arrested from the demonstrations, including more than 100 detained Thursday.

Freshman Sebastian Verrelli said he was disappointed by the school's actions against the students, but to him the demonstrations highlight the role of academic institutions to challenge people’s beliefs. “This campus community has incredible strength and a willingness to engage in dialogue,” he said. “It's a reason why I chose to be here.”

Biden to speak at Morehouse commencement, risking backlash as campus protests over Gaza grow

In Berkeley, a growing but peaceful encampment

The number of tents grew overnight from 12 to 50 at the Free Palestine encampment at the University of California in Berkeley, according to Malak Afaneh, co-president of the Law Students for Justice in Palestine.

The site was bustling but peaceful Tuesday, as volunteers dropped off food and a group of preschoolers from Oakland and their teachers ate lunch and toured around the tents. Several speakers addressed a small crowd during the afternoon.

Afaneh said student protesters will remain onsite as they’re demanding the university call for an end to the war in Gaza and divests from defense contractors profiting from the conflict, including Boeing, BlackRock and Lockheed Martin. Protesters also want the university to sever ties with Israeli academic institutions and create policies to protect Palestinian students as well as create a Palestinian studies program.

“I am 100% fully confident that all of our goals for divestment will be achieved,” Afaneh said. “We’re going to be here come rain, sunshine, suspensions, expulsions, all of it.”

UC Berkeley spokesperson Dan Mogulof said the school is keeping open communication with protest organizers, adding that Cal's top objective is "to ensure that students who want to attend classes and pursue their education can do so without interference and disruption.”

− Terry Collins

Dozens arrested near Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's home

Hundreds of people with the activist group Jewish Voice for Peace held a protest Tuesday evening at Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn, just down the street from the home of U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, D-N.Y. Along with ongoing student demonstrations across universities in New York City, Jewish Voice for Peace’s rally protested against the impending congressional bill to fund billions of aid to Israel .

The group held a symbolic Seder meal on the second day of the Passover holiday. People sat around a large illustration of ritual food for the meal. In addition to Jewish staples for the plate, the illustration added added items of olives and strawberries, symbolizing food representative of Palestine.

By nightfall, the group blocked traffic around Grand Army Plaza, bringing cars and buses to a standstill as police responded. The group has led prior actions at Grand Central Terminal and elsewhere in New York City that have resulted in hundreds of prior arrests.

In the roadway near Grand Army Plaza, police began pulling dozens of people, young and old, off the roadway, handcuffing them with zip ties, and loading them on at least six buses that lined down the street. Organizers said the act was meant to send a message from Jewish Americans who feel their identity is being used to justify funding to Israel's war by American politicians.

“Our actions have to build,” Stefanie Fox, the executive director of Jewish Voice for Peace, told USA TODAY as police cleared people from the street. “We have an obligation.”

As police lined up the last of the demonstrators to place them on buses, the Democratic-controlled Senate passed the $95 billion foreign aid package . About $17 billion of the aid goes to Israel, the Democratic-controlled Senate passed the $95 billion foreign aid package . About $17 billion of the aid goes to Israel.

− Eduardo Cuev as

NYU protest with union presence rips arrests, school president

An NYU protest kicked off midafternoon in lower Manhattan's Washington Square Park, a quasi-center for university life. Off to the side of the park's famous fountain, a group of speakers led a medium-size crowd in chants like "Linda Mills you're a liar," referring to the school's president. They also instructed those in attendance not to speak to reporters who weren't vetted.

The crowd, which included not only students but also NYU employees and some of their children, heard about the arrests and strong police presence from the previous night.

"We had members, faculty who were arrested last night because management turned the NYPD on peacefully demonstrating students and faculty, which they then disingenuously justified by saying that there were outside agitators," said Charles Gelman, 36, an adjunct faculty member at NYU.

Many signs read "UAW for a permanent cease-fire" over the backdrop of the Palestinian flag. The Academics Come Together-United Auto Workers Local 7902 represents more than 4,000 adjunct professors, educators and health care workers at NYU and the New School, its website says.

"In part we are trying to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian trade unions who have called for support from fellow unions internationally to do what we can to stop the flow of weapons, especially from the United States to Israel, that are destroying homes, families and lives in Gaza and in the West Bank," said Gelman, an ACT-UAW member. 

MIT students have Passover Seder on lawn

CAMBRIDGE, Massachusetts – At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, students have been camping out on a lawn outside the student center since Sunday. As darkness fell Tuesday night, they were nearing the end of a Passover Seder, with the Jewish students teaching the non-Jews about their tradition.

Graduate student David Berkinsky, who had defended his PhD thesis in physical chemistry a day earlier, said some of the students had been in tears as they shared the meaning of the holiday, which celebrates the liberation of Jews from Egypt thousands of years ago.

“That story doesn’t end with the liberatory struggle of the Jewish people, but it extends to all the liberatory struggles and that includes the Palestinian people, of course,” said Berkinsky, who belongs to Jews for Ceasefire, part of the MIT Coalition for Palestine.

The broader group wants MIT to cut its ties to companies that make military equipment Israel has used against Palestinians in Gaza, Berkinsky said.

While he spoke, about a dozen students sang traditional Passover songs and danced in a circle, as a student wearing an Orthodox Jewish head-covering and scarf played the clarinet. Many of the students, clearly singing the songs for the first time, stumbled and laughed their way through the lyrics. “There’s obviously a lot of joy we have together,” Berkinsky said. “This is a struggle we’re committed to.”

− Karen Weintraub

At Columbia, police helicopters part of daily life

Columbia University graduate student Layla Saliba said pro-Palestinian student groups set up tents on campus because they felt protest rallies and walkouts were ignored by administrators. Saliba, who is with the group Columbia University Apartheid Divestment, said multiple student groups, which include many Jewish students, want Columbia to withdraw its investments in companies that profit from the war in Gaza.

Students also want school suspensions to be revoked for some who received them after campus demonstrations in recent months.

Saliba, 24, said a handful of police helicopters and drones fly over the encampment areas daily. “I don’t like it, it makes me feel like I’m a zoo animal. Especially because we’re not doing anything wrong,” she said.

This week, some of Saliba’s friends were arrested for holding signs on campus, she said. Saliba said she hasn’t heard of any instances of pro-Palestinian students targeting Jewish students and said many students from different religious backgrounds feel scared of the large police presence.

“When you have armored vehicles, that’s going to make it tense for everyone,” she said.

− Claire Thornton

Antisemitism, reasons for protests should both be recognized, official says

At a security entrance to Columbia, New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams went into the campus just after a student, wearing a kippah head covering, was turned back by campus security and told to return to Barnard’s campus across the street.

Williams, a Democratic city official, said the student told him the campus felt less safe with the heightened police and security presence. Inside, Williams said he saw peaceful students at the encampment at the center of campus.“It’s the fact that people are standing up for Palestinians in Gaza,” Williams said. “And I really think that makes people uneasy.”Williams said he spoke with students who felt uneasy because they sensed antisemitism, some from people off campus. Williams said the presence of antisemitism should be acknowledged, as well as the reasons why many are protesting the war in Gaza.

“Just saying cease-fire can’t be antisemitic,” he said.

NYU under fire for calling in police

Mills said she brought in police to NYU after protesters breached barriers with "disorderly, disruptive and antagonizing behavior that interfered with the safety and security of our community." She said many refused to leave.

NYU's professor association issued a statement Tuesday calling much of the account false and blasting the administration for bringing in the police. The statement said the protest was loud, but there was no intimidation "other than by NYPD," which the group said, "made arrests in an especially rough manner" and pepper sprayed a student who was taking pictures. NYPD did not immediately respond to USA TODAY's request for comment.

Spencer Mulvaney, 20, a sophomore film major at NYU, said she found the administration's actions "upsetting."

"The protests that occurred were nonviolent and contained," she said. "Yet the police incited fear and used force ... as someone yelled, 'These are kids!'"

New York University sees brief quiet after Monday protests

New York University’s Manhattan campus was quiet early Tuesday following pro-Palestinian demonstrations that led to scores of arrests a day earlier. Outside the Stern business school, cameras were trained on a set of barricades while a man held a sign reading, “Israel kills 1400 kids.”

Nearby, Nikhil Chirumamilla, a senior studying dramatic writing, looked on. He saw the protests Monday but chose not to get involved when he spotted police in riot gear. Referencing an email NYU President Linda Mills sent out in the aftermath, he said her reasoning for the response seemed “flimsy.”

“I feel like the university response was a bit dramatic. I think it was peaceful protest," Chirumamilla said, adding that the university is "clear on their position on the matter. They’re not as open to pro-Palestinian voices on campus."

Columbia sociology professors defy university administration on student suspensions

Members of the Columbia University Department of Sociology say they were alarmed by the university’s actions in recent days, including calling police on peaceful student demonstrators on campus last week, resulting in over 100 people getting arrested . Police have said there was no credible threat to safety from the campus protests.

The sociology professors issued a statement Tuesday saying the suspensions of students arrested was “irregular, unnecessary and resting on shaky legal ground." The educators called on the school to reverse the suspensions and allow the students to return to the campus and to classes.

“For our own part, as members of the faculty of the department of sociology, we will continue to keep our courses open to these students, we will grade their exams and papers, and we will give them final grades in our courses so they may receive credit,” the statement said.

Education Secretary Cardona backs free speech but 'won't tolerate harassment'

Education Secretary Miguel Cardona called for calm in a social media post Tuesday, saying universities "are at their best when they promote the respectful exchange of diverse views and constructive debate." The Education department's Office for Civil Rights interprets the laws it enforces consistent with free speech and other First Amendment rights, he said.

"But we won’t tolerate hate or harassment that targets students because of who they are or who they’re perceived to be," Cardona said.

Columbia Jewish student group cites 'climate of repression'

The Columbia chapter of Jewish Voice for Peace accused the university of creating "a climate of repression and harm for students peacefully protesting for an end of the Israeli genocide against Palestinians in Gaza." The group said in a statement Monday that students have faced physical attacks and hate speech by faculty and staff. The university has actively created a "hostile environment" for Palestinian students and their supporters while making the campus "much less safe" for Jewish students.

"The administration has not only harassed Jewish students and failed to ensure their safety and well-being, it has also obstructed their religious observances," the statement said.

Contributing: Niraj Warikoo and Junfu Han, Detroit Free Press; Reuters

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Judge OKs phone surveys of jury pool for man charged in 4 University of Idaho student deaths

FILE - Bryan Kohberger, right, is escorted into a courtroom for a hearing in Latah County District Court, Sept. 13, 2023, in Moscow, Idaho. A judge says defense attorneys for Kohberger, the man charged in the deaths of four University of Idaho students in late 2022, can resume phone surveys of potential jurors in the case. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren, Pool, File)

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BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Defense attorneys for a man charged in the deaths of four University of Idaho students can resume phone surveys of potential jurors in the case, a judge has ruled.

Bryan Kohberger faces four murder charges in connection with the November 2022 stabbing deaths of Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves. A judge has entered a not guilty plea on Kohberger’s behalf, and prosecutors say they will seek the death penalty if he is convicted.

Kohberger’s defense team hired a consultant to survey potential jurors living near the university about things they might have seen, heard or read about the case. The phone survey included questions about Kohberger’s arrest, the type of car he owns, DNA evidence and a knife sheath found near one of the bodies. It also included questions about whether the person being surveyed had watched true crime-style shows about the case or other things they might have heard.

When prosecutors became aware of the survey earlier this year, they asked 2nd District Judge John Judge to order the defense team to stop, arguing that the surveys violated a broad gag order the judge had issued in the case. Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson said some of the questions could prejudice people who could be called to serve as jurors when the case goes to trial.

In a ruling issued Friday , Judge said the surveys could continue as long as the questions do not violate his gag order. Most of the questions included information already publicly available through court documents, the judge wrote in the ruling, and so did not violate the order.

Other questions about rumors people might have heard or crime documentaries they might have seen about the case were not part of the public record when the surveys began, but they have since been debated and discussed in open court — which means they, too, are now part of the public record and can be included in future surveys, Judge said.

The bodies of the four University of Idaho students were found at a rental home near campus on Nov. 13, 2022. Police arrested Kohberger, 29 and then a graduate student at nearby Washington State University, more than six weeks later at his parents’ home in eastern Pennsylvania, where he had gone for winter break.

Watch CBS News

Bryan Kohberger's lawyers can resume phone surveys of jury pool in case of 4 University of Idaho student deaths, judge rules

Updated on: April 23, 2024 / 8:52 AM EDT / CBS/AP

Defense attorneys for a man charged in the deaths of four University of Idaho students can resume phone surveys of potential jurors in the case, a judge has ruled.

Bryan Kohberger faces four murder charges in connection with the November 2022 stabbing deaths of Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves. A judge has entered a not guilty plea on Kohberger's behalf, and prosecutors say they will seek the death penalty if he is convicted.

Kohberger's defense team hired a consultant to survey potential jurors living near the university about things they might have seen, heard or read about the case. The phone survey included questions about Kohberger's arrest, the type of car he owns, DNA evidence and a knife sheath found near one of the bodies. It also included questions about whether the person being surveyed had watched true crime-style shows about the case or other things they might have heard.

When prosecutors became aware of the survey earlier this year, they asked 2nd District Judge John Judge to order the defense team to stop, arguing that the surveys violated a broad gag order the judge had issued in the case. Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson said some of the questions could prejudice people who could be called to serve as jurors when the case goes to trial.

In a ruling issued Friday, Judge said the surveys could continue as long as the questions do not violate his gag order. Most of the questions included information already publicly available through court documents, the judge wrote in the ruling, and so did not violate the order.

Other questions about rumors people might have heard or crime documentaries they might have seen about the case were not part of the public record when the surveys began, but they have since been debated and discussed in open court - which means they, too, are now part of the public record and can be included in future surveys, Judge said.

The bodies of the four University of Idaho students were found at a rental home near campus on Nov. 13, 2022. The home has since been  demolished .

Police arrested Kohberger, 29 and then a graduate student at nearby Washington State University, more than six weeks later at his parents' home in eastern Pennsylvania, where he had gone for winter break.

Last week, a court filing revealed that Kohberger's lawyers plan to use cellphone tower data to show he was not at the location where the murders occurred. The documents allegedly providing an alibi for Kohberger stated he "was out driving in the early morning hours of November 13, 2022; as he often did to hike and run and/or see the moon and stars. He drove throughout the area south of Pullman, Washington, west of Moscow, Idaho including Wawawai Park."

The document said a cell site location information expert will testify that cell tower data shows "Kohberger's mobile device was south of Pullman, Washington and west of Moscow, Idaho on November 13, 2022; that Bryan Kohberger's mobile device did not travel east on the Moscow-Pullman Highway in the early morning hours of November 13th, and thus could not be the vehicle captured on video along the Moscow-Pullman highway near Floyd's Cannabis shop."

A previous affidavit stated investigators had found cell tower data from that morning which showed Kohberger's phone in Pullman around 2:47 a.m. the night of the murders, at which point it suddenly stopped connecting to the cell network, according to " 48 Hours ." It was around this time surveillance video saw his car leave his apartment, "48 Hours" reported.

Jordan Freiman contributed to this report.

• University of Idaho
• Bryan Kohberger

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Father mourns 16-year-old student-athlete killed in shooting after prom

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WTVM/Gray News) - A Georgia father heartbroken after his 16-year-old son was fatally shot during his prom weekend says the teenager’s bright future was taken away.

Manchester High School officials described 16-year-old Daryus Bryant as someone who “excelled both in athletics and academics.” His father told WTVM he was a well-liked kid who was very humble.

“My son, even though he was celebrating prom Saturday, his 17th birthday is this Saturday, so that really sucks that this happened,” said Daryus’ father, Cartarsman Bryant.

Early Sunday morning, a shooting occurred at the intersection of Lakeshore Drive and Crystal Drive in Columbus. When officers arrived, they found two victims in separate cars suffering from gunshot wounds after authorities say a third vehicle rode by, shooting into the other two cars.

Daryus Bryant died at a local hospital. The other victim, also a student at Manchester, was rushed into surgery. He was identified as Clarence Favors.

Cartarsman Bryant says it’s heartbreaking that his son’s life was cut short due to gun violence.

“It’s sad. I think some laws need to be changed. I think some politicians need to start paying attention to what’s happening and act like they really care. We definitely got to do something about the gun violence because it’s getting out of hand, way out of hand,” he said.

Bryant’s father says the 16-year-old was a humble kid and a homebody.

“He didn’t party. He didn’t go out much. Actually, he wasn’t even planning on going to the prom. That was a last-minute decision that he decided to go. I don’t know about the perpetrators, but the victim in this case definitely is not in a street gang nor is he affiliated with any of that,” Cartarsman Bryant said.

When Daryus Bryant, also known as D.B., wasn’t at home, he played football, basketball and ran track at Manchester High, leading two teams to championships. His father is the offensive coordinator for the football team. He says his son had a bright future ahead of him.

“He had about three or four college offers. He had several coaches calling, a lot of people interested in him. His senior year was gonna be a big year for him to probably get some more offers, I’m sure, but he was robbed short of that,” Cartarsman Bryant said.

The father wants to send a message to the person behind his son’s death.

“You took the life of somebody that didn’t deserve this. Nobody really deserves this, but this kid definitely is not one of the street thugs or however you want to categorize them. You hurt a community, a family. You took a brother, a son. You left a lot of people hurting, so they’re definitely coming for you,” he said.

Daryus Bryant is the second Manchester student to be killed due to gun violence in the last year.

So far, no arrests have been made. The investigation is ongoing.

Copyright 2024 WTVM via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Columbia University protesters resume demonstrations after mass arrests

Pro-Palestinian student protesters resumed a third day of demonstrations Friday at Columbia University, saying their resolve has strengthened despite mass suspensions and arrests.

“This is the moral thing to do,” said Eliette, 25, who uses they/them pronouns and declined to give their last name out of fear of retaliation from the school.

The Columbia graduate student was one of 113 people arrested Thursday after the university asked police to break up a tent encampment students had set up early Wednesday on its south lawn in support of Gaza.

Columbia President Nemat “Minouche” Shafik said in a memo to police that the protesters had ignored multiple written and verbal warnings to disperse and were trespassing and damaging campus property, among other violations.

The students who were arrested were peaceful and did not resist, NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban said at a news conference.

Eliette said protesters were sitting in a circle and linking arms when they were detained around 1:30 p.m. The student was released from police custody at about 8 p.m. Thursday and was back at the protest Friday morning.

“Students who protested in the encampment are on the right side of history,” Eliette said. “This is extremely historic.

Johanna, another graduate student who was arrested and also feared retaliation, said she was loaded onto a Department of Correction bus and taken to the NYPD headquarters, where she waited in line for about eight hours to get processed, with her hands zip-tied behind her back.

“My shoulders and wrists are still bruised, still hurt from being in handcuffs for that long,” she said. “It was just hours and hours.”

The protesters were eventually brought into jail cells in groups of about three, Johanna said. She said she was released shortly after 10:30 p.m. Thursday.

Johanna said she has not received any notice about a suspension from her school. “I am definitely afraid of it,” she said. “But it won’t stop me from doing what’s right.”

A growing number of demonstrators joined her Friday as protesters continued to occupy the campus space, where tents have been replaced by large blankets. Many protesters were sitting in prayer Friday afternoon.

Barnard College and Columbia did not say how many students were suspended or how long the suspensions would last. 

Under Columbia’s new policy on demonstrations, which was implemented in February, students can protest in certain outdoor areas on weekdays from noon to 6 p.m. with prior approval. 

A Columbia spokesperson said that Wednesday’s encampment was not authorized.

“We have rules regarding the time, place, and manner that apply to protest activity, and we will continue to enforce those,” the spokesperson said Friday. “We remain in regular contact with our students and student groups and are committed to ensuring the core functions of the University continue.”

Barnard did not immediately respond to a new request for comment. In a statement Thursday, the school said it prioritizes “students’ learning and living in an inclusive environment free from harassment.”

Isra Hirsi, the 21-year-old daughter of Rep. Ilhan Omar and a Barnard student, was among the more than 100 people arrested Thursday, according to police. Hirsi said on social media that she was suspended.

Omar, D-Minn., a Somali refugee who made history as one of the first two Muslim American women elected to Congress, said in a post on X Friday that she was "enormously proud" of her daughter, adding that Hirsi had a history of organizing and is "now pushing her school to stand against genocide."

"Stepping up to change what you can’t tolerate is why we as a country have the right to speech, assembly, and petition enshrined in our constitution," Omar wrote.

Tensions over free speech have erupted on some U.S. college campuses since the war between Israel and Hamas started in October.

This week, the University of Southern California canceled a Muslim student’s valedictorian speech claiming security concerns. Last week, a University of California, Berkeley, professor confronted a Muslim student during a dinner for graduating law students.

Melissa Chan is a reporter for NBC News Digital with a focus on veterans’ issues, mental health in the military and gun violence.