Writing a cover letter is kind of like writing a really good car "for sale" ad. You want to sound as shiny and capable as possible, but don't overdo it so that the reader calls BS. You really want them to know why you'll be an asset to their company; that's not a question of telling them what you think they want to hear, but instead what you think they NEED to hear. You can talk about personal interests mainly if they relate to your work, but don't get too deep. And don't really bother with dates and places if that information is already in your resume. Keep the tone positive and interested, and whatever you do, don't...
<gets distracted>
