Game Developer's Portfolio

Cover Letter Assignment

Lecture 2 in Chapter 6

Cover Letters & Peer Review

Overview

In this assignment, you will research a job position, write a tailored cover letter, and provide constructive feedback to your peers. The goal is to refine your ability to present yourself effectively while helping others improve their applications.

Your Tasks

1. Research a Job Position

Find a game programming or game development job posting that interests you and share the link in the designated Canvas forum thread.

2. Write Your Cover Letter

Using the job description as a guide, write a tailored cover letter that:

  • Matches your skills and experience with the job’s requirements.
  • Uses a tone appropriate for the game industry—relaxed yet professional, incorporating enthusiasm for the company’s work.
  • Applies the argument-evidence-impact approach to highlight your strengths with concrete examples.
  • Includes a strong introduction that captures attention. Be bold, confident, humble, and catchy, but don't be exaggerated, use too much dramatic, and don't use cliches.
  • Ends with a clear call to action, encouraging the employer to take the next step.

Post both the job link and your cover letter in the forum.

3. Peer Review

Read and evaluate at least five of your peers' submissions. Prioritize reviewing posts with fewer replies to ensure everyone receives feedback.

When reviewing, focus on:

  • Clarity & Structure: Is the letter well-organized and easy to follow?
  • Tone & Personalization: Does it reflect the right balance of professionalism and enthusiasm?
  • Relevance to Job Posting: Is the letter tailored to the specific role?
  • Effectiveness of Arguments: Are key skills and experiences backed up with evidence?
  • Call to Action: Does the ending encourage the employer to engage further?

Provide specific and constructive feedback—point out strengths and suggest improvements.

Submission Instructions

  1. Post: Your job link and cover letter in the Canvas forum.
  2. Review: At least five peers, focusing on those with fewer responses.
  3. Engage: Offer helpful, detailed feedback.

This exercise will sharpen your ability to present yourself compellingly while strengthening the class community through peer learning.