What is a professor actually looking for in your PhD cover letter? When I read one, I’m usually trying to answer four questions very quickly.
Why me?
Not “I am interested in your research.” Show me that you know what my lab is currently working on. One recent paper, one research problem, one specific connection is usually enough.
Why you?
Don’t give me your entire CV. Show me the 1 or 2 experiences that make you useful for this project. If your experience is in analysing longitudinal clinical data, tell me that when my project requires exactly that. Make the transferability obvious.
Why this research question?
This is where I look for evidence that you’ve actually thought about the science. What did your previous work make you curious about? What limitation did you encounter? What relationship or assumption would you like to investigate further?
Why should I believe you can do it?
This comes from specifics. A methodological decision you made. A problem you solved. An unexpected result you interpreted. A technique you didn’t just learn, but actually used to answer a research question.
By the end, I should be able to summarise your letter in one sentence:
“This person has worked on X, understands Y, and could contribute to Z in my lab.”
If I can’t do that, the letter probably needs restructuring, regardless of how polished the writing is.
That’s also how I review cover letters with my mentees. We strip away the generic language and rebuild the letter around what the PI needs to understand about you within the first minute.
If you want me to do that with yours, DM me “COVER” to explore how we can work together to supercharge your applications.
How to Search for Institutions Offering Scholarships in Your Field 🎓
Finding the right scholarship opportunities starts with knowing where to look.
1. Use targeted keywords on Google
Search beyond just “scholarships” and include your field, degree level, and funding type.
👉 Example: “Fully funded PhD in Biology”
2. Explore trusted scholarship platforms
Use reliable databases such as DAAD, Chevening, Fulbright, Erasmus Mundus, Commonwealth, Studyportals, and Scholarships Cafe.
3. Check university funding pages
Many opportunities are shared directly on university websites. Look for graduate funding, scholarships, and research opportunities.
4. Follow academic communities and professors
Many funded positions and opportunities are shared through academic networks, research groups, and faculty pages.
Remember: finding opportunities is only the first step. Knowing which ones match your profile and how to position yourself for success is what makes the difference. 🚀
I found another beautiful scripture today 🥹
But me, I’m not giving up. I’m sticking around to see what God will do. I’m waiting on God to make things right.
- Micah 7:7
As promised, this thread contains samples of cold email to potential graduate advisors + tips on drafting a winning and convincing cold email. I hope you find them helpful. Best of luck.
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Happy birthday to the man who fought another lecturer who wanted sex over my hard work as a student. A lecturer boldly failed me because I refused a visit. He was known for it. I was in 200 level then. I saw the disappointment on my professor's face because this was someone he helped.
When the information got to my professor, he took immediate action.
On the agreed date for the hearing, I got into the room with my previous results on the table. All I heard was, "It cannot be Blessing. Dr, something is wrong. She wrote all of these in the past. She is diligent. It can't be my daughter. Dismiss this."
Although it was too late for the portal to change the verdict online, I am glad my innocence was proven. All my scripts magically reappeared. And the next generation after me has not had to deal with such an element. I saw my script. I did not fail, as written by the man who lacks self-discipline.
I have not forgotten how you stood up for me, Sir. You made sure whoever did this paid heavily for it. It is 5 years after graduation but everything is still new in my heart.
Professor Modo gave me access to his library. He encouraged me to be steadfast. He has not forgotten me. He spoke to me early this year and told me to further my studies since I am well now.
Throughout the time I was sick, he was always talking to me. He would say, "When you are ready, go to this institution and tell XYZ that you are from me."
Thank you, my amiable Professor Innocent Modo. You stood up for so many. You shielded many with school fees and feeding money. I witnessed it as a student then. May God keep shielding you, Sir.