My name is Mark Adler. I have been developing software since I was literally
twelve years old. I am now 23. I feel I would be an excellent fit for an entry
level computer programmer position or related job. I started a small company
called Split Software at the age of 15 (which is covered in detail in the resume
portion of this letter) but never worked in a long term or permanent position in
this field. While around the ages of 14 to 16, received full-time job offers from
companies assuming I was an adult and not even realizing I was not even old
enough to accept them. I have spent the last year writing point of sale software
which will be used at a pizzeria where I currently work part time. The software
we currently used is unreliable and poorly written and I felt that I could
improve productivity by simply writing my own.  I do not intend to go into
business for myself because there is a limited market for that sort of thing in
this area since most places already have POS systems, so it will not interfere
with this position if I am hired.

If there is one thing I would say I bring to the table, it is self-motivation
and personal drive to learn new things to get things done right. I taught myself
C++, some Java, REALbasic, VB, and most recently SQL. I have always taken
initiative to get things done and I am absolutely not the type of person to stand
around and wait for things to happen.

I do not have a degree, but I am confident that my knowledge is sufficient for
an entry level position such as this one. There is absolutely no substitute for
first hand experience. A college degree is a good thing for someone who has no
experience, but learning something and doing something are two totally different
things and I know there is no possible way I would have the knowledge and skills
I have after four years of school. If absolutely necessary, I would be willing to
take a few classes part time to supplement my knowledge. I would also be able to
provide examples of my current work.

In a nutshell, I have taken the initiatives on my own and will continue to do so
for your company. Thank you for considering me for this position. I look forward
to hearing back from you in the coming days. 

-- Mark Adler