First Contact Email

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Template

Subject Line: Meeting Request to Discuss Research/Creative Opportunities

Dr./Professor Your Contact's Last Name,

I’m an undergraduate studying major(s)/minor(s) and currently exploring opportunities for undergraduate research/creative work.

I learned about your work (e.g. in arctic ecosystems on the department’s website) and would appreciate the opportunity to talk with you about it.

< Explain your motivation. >

I’m available for a meeting or call at the following times and am happy to find other times as needed.

Thank you,

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Motivation

What interests you about and/or what questions do you have about their work?
e.g. “I read your article on…and am interested in learning more about…â€

How does their work advance your academic and professional goals?
e.g. “I plan to…and think experience with…will help me…"

What do you bring to the potential partnership, noting relevant strengths, previous experiences, courses taken, and current activities?
e.g. “I’m comfortable doing…, have experiencing working with…, have taken courses in…, and am currently…
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Connect with Potential Mentors

Note

Though this email is directed to faculty leading projects, we recommend reviewing the websites of your potential faculty mentors for information about the larger team working with them. You might have more success in your initial outreach if you focus your attention on team members with less email, such as graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, lab managers—and, even, undergraduates! You can typically find a link to a faculty member's website on their CU Experts and/or department profile.

Empower inspiring students with transformative opportunities.Ìý

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