Professors are busy people. Some can have hundreds of students spread out over several classes, while others may only have a dozen. Regardless of their student count, they have a lot of papers and assignments to grade on a weekly basis. Emailing a professor sometimes is the only method for asking questions. However, there are several things you should always consider when emailing your professor.
Your professor is there to help you with your studies and showing respect is crucial. Keep in mind that although the professor is not grading you on a random email, he or she may form an opinion of you based on that email.
With that in mind, here are 5 tips to help you leave a good impression.
1. Get the professor’s title correct
Should it be Professor Carey or Dr. Carey? While the general use of “professor” is typically acceptable, taking the extra care to address the professor as Dr. to recognize a decade’s worth in higher learning is valuable. Conversely, do not force your professor to inform you that he or she is lacking a doctorate, meaning do not start calling all your teachers “Dr.” Whatever you do, never use “Doc.”
2. Use an informative, professional signature
Given that you are not the professor’s only student, let alone the only class on their schedule, help your teacher out with an informative signature, which includes your full name, the class, semester, and student ID. For example:
John Thomas
Introduction to Military History (Fall 2013)
Student ID: 444777
That way, the teacher does not have to waste time researching you, or asking you to clarify questions, and can instead use that time to help you.
3. Proofread your email!
Your email is not a graded assignment, but act as though it is. Ensure that your grammar and spelling are all sound. Read through the email before you send to check for clarity of thought, and to make sure your intention are well illustrated.
4. Avoid slang and emoticons!
Professors spend a lifetime teaching students on how to use tools such as the English language. Do not abuse it with Tweet-like words and smiley faces. Impress the teacher with your ability to master the English language while succinctly describing the point of your email.
5. Use an informative subject line
To speed up the process, use a subject line that summarizes the purpose of your email. Avoid blank subject lines or vague ones such as “Hello” or “Question.” Instead, use subjects lines such as the following:
- Questions on Week 3 Homework
- Request for Extension
- Request for Letter of Recommendation
With the sample subject lines above, any professor will get the basic idea for your email before reading it. Again, the subject line will alert the teacher to your question and expedite the process of getting to the root of your inquiry.
Have tips of your own? Tell us about them.
By Scott Manning
Online Learning Tips, Student Contributor
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