To: Evan Crisp, UBC student

From: Jieun Kim, ENGL 301 Student

Data: July 2, 2021

Subject: Best Practices in Writing an Email to a Professor

Introduction

Thank you for reaching out to me for advice on writing this email. The email to Professor Lambert asking for placement in a course that is full has been reviewed. Below are some tips and recommendations that are useful to catch the professor’s eye and to get a prompt response.

List of Suggestions

• Including a subject line with keywords that summarizes the purpose of the email helps the professor understand the urgency of the situation prior to reading the body.
• Using a UBC student’s email account helps the professor identify and recognize the sender, which prevents the email from being considered spam.
• Beginning with an appropriate greeting such as “Dear Professor” demonstrates politeness and professionalism.
• Including a brief introduction of yourself will assist the professor in identifying the sender.
• Demonstrating academic goals and interest in the course increases the likelihood of being accepted to the course.
• Highlighting or outlining important information such as student number, class section, and time will improve readability.
• Avoiding imperative verbs and the pronoun “you” helps maintain a formal and polite tone.
• Avoiding using shortcuts makes the email look more professional.
• Thanking the professor’s attention to the email will leave a positive impression.
• Signing off with an appropriate email close such as “Best regards” is crucial.

Conclusion

Proper email etiquette is an important skill to make a favorable impression on recipients. These guidelines will help you demonstrate a professional attitude and a clear tone while communicating via email. Please do not hesitate to contact me if there are any further questions. jieunkxx@student.ubc.ca