“Hi, my name is _____ , and I am interested in the fashion internship position at _____.” Snooze…yet, that’s how most of us start our cover letters when applying to internships. It’s not necessarily the wrong way to start your cover letter, it just lacks the gusto that will separate your letter from the slew heaped on an employer’s desk. But, there is a wonderful alternative that will make you memorable.

What? Opening with a story.

Employers are people. People love to be entertained. Stories are entertaining. People love stories. The math is simple! Leading with a personal story that either happened at work or during your free time that is (somewhat) dramatic, interesting, unique, exciting, or downright unusual provides a welcomed differentiation from the pile of cover letters he or she is going through. Not only does your fresh anecdote catch the reader’s attention, weaving in your skills exhibited in your story slyly demonstrates your ability to do the job well.

The best part of including a personal story is it is yours, and only yours. No one has had the same experience, making your tale individual and memorable. But, be careful. Don’t la-de-da about your entire life story. It’s time consuming. Select a concise story that proves your qualification with care.