Contacting Potential Graduate School Advisors

Below are some resources we’ve found to help you in the important step of emailing potential graduate advisors. As a summary, here are the things you should be sure to include or consider:

  • Keep it short and straightforward (you don’t want the email to look too long)

  • Be sure to be specific - faculty want to know that you have taken the time to seriously look at the research they do. Avoid saying vague statements like “I find your research fascinating”. Instead say “your research in X aligns with my interests in Y developed through my previous experiences or classes in Z”.

  • Indicate whether you are interested in a MS or PhD degree

  • Attach a CV or resume so that the faculty member can look at your previous experiences and skills

  • Be polite and appreciative of their time. Send your email from a professional email address and use formal language (best to stick with “Dear Dr. ABC” rather than a first name until you know how they prefer to be called).

Other Resources: