Contacting Prospective Advisors: A Guide for Graduate School Applicants

The Debate

There is ongoing debate about whether prospective graduate students should contact potential advisors before applying. Some argue it's essential, while others consider it a waste of time.

Understanding the Professor's Perspective

Professors are often inundated with emails, especially those prominent in academia. They may overlook or ignore unsolicited messages. As a prospective student, it's crucial to consider the advisor's perspective:

• If you were a professor, how would you respond to an email from a promising student interested in your research?
• Would you have time to reply to every inquiry about Ph.D. vacancies?

STEM Programs: A Special Case

In STEM fields, contacting potential advisors requires caution:

• STEM graduate schools prioritize research over education
• Advisors view prospective students as potential research team members
• Funding considerations play a significant role
• Some programs only accept applications after advisor approval

The Importance of Research Experience

STEM fields often prioritize applicants' research experience:

• Demonstrates interest and commitment to research
• Shows collaboration skills
• Helps narrow down research interests

When to Contact Potential Advisors

Many graduate programs now require applicants to indicate preferred advisors. Before contacting a professor:

1. Ensure they plan to recruit new students
2. Inquire about Ph.D. vacancies and available funding
3. Review information on the university website

Steps to Take Before Contacting Advisors

1. Search for potential advisors in your research area
2. Review faculty profiles on university websites
3. Examine professors' personal websites, CVs, and publications
4. Narrow down your list of potential advisors

Crafting Your Contact Email

When reaching out to potential advisors:

• Keep the email concise (less than three paragraphs)
• Highlight your research interests and potential contributions
• Attach a well-written CV
• Maintain a polite and professional tone

Final Considerations

• Check if the university prohibits contacting professors directly
• If allowed, reach out to make a positive impression
• Be prudent and respectful in your communications

Remember, the goal is to present yourself as a promising future researcher and to gauge the potential for a successful advisor-advisee relationship.