Erica’s Memorandum to Evan Crisp

MEMORANDUM

To: Evan Crisp, Student ENGL 301
From: Erica Friedman, Student ENGL 301
Date: March 3, 2019
Subject: Getting Positive Results from Professors by Email

Introduction

Sorry to hear that Dr. Lambert hasn’t responded yet. I know that students have been successful in other cases; there is still time. Please see my suggestions for achieving positive results by email.

Best practices for writing to professors

Email appeals can be more successful by:

• • • Addressing the professor directly; a suitable opening is “Dear Dr. Lambert”
    • Recognizing the professor as an authority figure; being respectful in tone
    • Including relevant information only
    • Limiting grammatical and spelling errors
    • Expressing interest in making positive contributions to the course
    • Appreciating the professor’s busy schedule, and thanking them for their efforts; an effective closing is “Thank you in advance for your assistance”
    • Concluding with the student’s full name and contact details
    • Showing flexibility in how and when the student could be contacted

Conclusion

Try giving your appeal another chance. I suggest writing a follow-up email using the tips provided. If you have any questions, please contact me at erica.friedman@alumni.ubc.ca.

Good luck and congratulations on your imminent graduation!