I've been handed the Holy Grail of Opportunities...

A mutual friend has said he'll place my resumé directly on the desk of one the largest WM firms out there. However, unlike many people here, I don't have the degree- nor the credentials.

I have however, gone through the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program... and for those unfamiliar, the NNPP is an intensive 2 year program that includes, physics, calculus, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, modeling, etc.

After 6 years of service, I separated honorably, and now oversee the daily operations of 5 cryogenic distillation plants. This job requires an astute attention to detail, trend analysis, and quick reflexes, and the ability to navigate a steep learning curve.

I am concurrently applying to LSE, Columbia, U of Texas Austin, and NYU to pursue my real passion in finance. It's always been my dream to work on the Street.

All that said, I feel that I am wholly under qualified to have this sort of opportunity, and I don't want to come across as another schmuck hoping for a handout. How could I write a cover letter that conveys this? How do I not blow this?