Cover Letter: Cody McClain 1803 Forest Avenue Knoxville, TN 37916 (423)-883-9201 mmccla11@utk.

edu To Whom It May Concern: My name is Cody McClain, and Im reaching out to you in order to express interest and be considered as a candidate for your PhD program in cellular and molecular nutrition. I believe that your program offers the tools and resources to be successful in a research setting. Currently, I am a senior nutrition major at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, and I plan to enroll in a graduate program for the fall semester of 2015. During the fall semester of 2014, I plan to continue my research on colorectal cancer as well as pick up a minor in biology in order to enhance my learning experience and refine my research techniques. Because of my background in nutrition as well as taking challenging science electives, I believe I fit the criteria for your graduate program. My passion for nutrition, along with my strong science background, gives me the necessary tools to succeed in a graduate program emphasizing nutrition at the molecular level. In my four years at the University of Tennessee, I feel that Ive gained valuable skills in communication, leadership, and time management. Throughout my time here in Knoxville, I have been actively involved in my fraternity, Delta Tau Delta, serving multiple administration positions. This year, I became involved with research under Dr. Dallas Donohoe, researching the effect of high fiber diets on colorectal cancer. Along with research and school, Ive spent the last two years working at the College of Law, serving as a student assistant within the law library. All of my extracurricular activities, combined with school, have taught me to manage my time as well as teach me the interpersonal skills needed to be successful in your program. After reviewing my portfolio and resume, I hope that you have a better understanding of who I am as a student as well as my character and skills. Going forward, I hope that we can arrange a meeting in order to further discuss your graduate program. If you have any questions, please contact me via email at mmccla11@utk.edu. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon. Sincerely, Cody McClain