Sample cover letter for Internship position at JP Morgan

1. Please write about a recent news article that has interested you and how you feel that subject would relate to J.P. Morgan (200 words).

In 1984, Ethiopia was a country that starved as a result of a politically induced famine hence Geldof’s famous song “Do they know it Christmas?” was created. Fast forward 30 years, Ethiopia plans to issue its first sovereign bond. It hopes to raise up to $1bn with a 10-year bond from foreign investors with the help of JPMorgan as it embarks on an international roadshow. Ethiopia has now join a growing number of African countries that have issued similar bonds. I found this interesting as I am pleased to see that sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) are taking advantage of the current high investor interest however is the region repeating the same mistakes of the 1980s and 1990s by taking on too much debt. This relates to JPMorgan as it has to ensure it provides good service to its client (Ethiopian government) on the international 

road-show despite the fact that other SSA countries are having repayment problems with similar bonds. At present, Ivory Coast and Seychelles have already defaulted on their sovereign debts, Gabon and Ghana (countries with relative strength in export earnings) are struggling to find money for the repayment of their soon to mature Eurobond.

1. Please describe your motivation for applying to the (Example: CIB - Sales, Trading & Research program) within J.P. Morgan. Please give details of any skills you have that would be relevant to this area (300 words).

Apart from my determination to excel, my passion in this field is undeniable. I was fortunate to be a part of the aspiring professional programme in 2013. From this experience, I realised that investment banking is at the centre of global events; from politics to extreme weather, anything that affects markets and their behaviour is relevant to their work. And no two days are the same because every day something’s happening which influences the way people invest. Hence, I am motivated by the prospect of expanding my knowledge of this dynamic industry at the best investment bank in the world.

Moreover, I am motivated by the prospect of participating in activities such as interactive elements and case studies as these training sessions will help me improve my analytic skill. Furthermore, whilst I was part of the aspiring professional programme, I met the amazing Antonia Teixeira whose confidence and professionalism provides an example for me to lead to this very day. Hence, I am motivated by the knowledge that I will have the opportunity to meet more inspiring women leaders should I be accepted.

Whilst completing my studies, I have maintained good grade, and have been involved in extracurricular activities. I have held financial and administrative roles in the Young Enterprise team where I scheduled meetings, took minutes and managed the budget. I developed the ability to think independently as well as to take initiatives to contribute to the success of a group. Moreover, the school entrusted me with the responsibility for the design, ad sales of the school leavers’ sweatshirts. Through this experience, I gained communication and listening skills as I took into consideration the suggestions of 150 pupils whilst designing the product. I believe that this role involves the ability to merge team work with being a self-starter. I am confident that my experiences and skills provide the relevant foundations in this area.