How to mail professors for graduate supervision
The daunting task of reaching out to professors for graduate supervision! Here's a step-by-step guide to help you craft a effective email:
Before you start:
- Research: Identify potential professors who are experts in your area of interest and have a track record of supervising graduate students.
- Review their research: Familiarize yourself with their research interests, publications, and current projects to show your enthusiasm and understanding of their work.
- Check their availability: Look for professors who are accepting new graduate students or have a history of supervising students in your desired program.
Crafting your email:
- Subject line: Keep it concise and informative, e.g., "Request for Graduate Supervision in [Field of Study]"
- Introduction: Start with a brief introduction, including your name, undergraduate degree, and relevant research experience (if any).
- Research interests: Clearly state your research interests and how they align with the professor's work. Be specific about the topics you're interested in exploring.
- Why you're interested: Explain why you're interested in working with the professor and what you hope to achieve under their supervision.
- Research proposal: If you have a research proposal, include a brief summary (1-2 pages) outlining your research question, methodology, and expected outcomes.
- Availability: Mention your availability to start the program and any specific dates you're considering.
- Closing: Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity to work with the professor and thank them for their time.
- Contact information: Include your contact information, such as your email address and phone number.
Example email:
Subject: Request for Graduate Supervision in Environmental Science
Dear Professor [Professor's Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am reaching out to express my interest in pursuing a graduate degree in Environmental Science under your supervision at [University Name].
As an undergraduate student in Environmental Science, I was exposed to various aspects of environmental research, including [specific topics or projects]. Your work on [specific research area] resonated with me, and I am impressed by your contributions to the field. I am particularly interested in exploring [specific research question or topic] and believe that your expertise would be invaluable in guiding my research.
My research proposal, titled [Proposal Title], aims to [briefly describe your research question and methodology]. I believe that this project aligns with your research interests and would be a great opportunity for me to contribute to the field.
I am available to start the program in [specific semester or year] and am willing to work with you to develop a research plan that aligns with your availability.
Thank you for considering my request. I would be thrilled to discuss my application and research proposal with you further.
Please feel free to contact me at [Your Email Address] or [Your Phone Number].
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Tips and reminders:
- Keep your email concise and well-structured.
- Proofread your email multiple times to ensure it is error-free and easy to read.
- Be respectful of the professor's time and expertise.
- Follow up with a polite email or phone call if you don't receive a response within a few weeks.
- Be prepared to discuss your application and research proposal in detail if the professor expresses interest.
Good luck, and I hope you receive a positive response from your desired professor!