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Contacting graduate profs.

Posted: Fri Dec 08, 2006 1:52 am
by JackSkellington
So i've heard different things about contacting potential advisors at grad schools. Some people ive talked to have said its really helpful- on some applications they even ask you for the names of professors youve contacted. Other people say it can alienate potential advisors. I emailed a couple of the guys I want to work with at one school (SHORT emails asking if theyre taking students and if theres ne thing else I can read to get an idea of their research) about a week ago, but I havent heard back (theyre probably very busy, but its still a little discouraging).


What do you guys think- is it a good idea to contact people? What should you say to them??

Posted: Fri Dec 08, 2006 2:17 am
by somebody
my research advisor from the summer strongly encouraged me to pick up the phone and call people from the departments I am applying too whose research I found interesting. i met him halfway and sent an e-mail to one guy (this was 2 days ago) and haven't heard back, so I might start calling people instead.

Posted: Fri Dec 08, 2006 9:14 am
by lorenzbutterfly
Well, my experience so far has been positive with respect to contacting professors. I sent out an email to one expressing interest in his field, and heard back within a few days. What's more, since the school is local, he invited me to come visit, tour the facilities, and meet some of the students.

It most likely couldn't hurt to write or call and express your interest in their program. And, more than likely it will help you out. At least then you'll be more than a file number when it comes time to look at applications.

Good luck!

Posted: Mon Dec 18, 2006 10:24 pm
by 1297or7921
I contacted 4-5 professors in every school I have applied to. I read through their research and whenever I found correlations, I would email them my transcript/resume/scores.

The response has been a mix.

I have gotten extremely enthusiastic professors telling me that they will contact the graduate assistant directly and that if/when I come to visit, they would love to sit down with me and discuss their research.

On the other hand, I have gotten very succinct emails from professors telling me things I already knew.

So, I think it is good to email professors. The worst that can happen is that they don't respond. The best that can happen is they recruit you to work in their lab.