Tips for emailing your professors and advisors

Important information to include

• Course information: Reference the name/number of the course in question (ex. BIO 101) and the course meeting day/time (ex. Thursday 9:15am) – professors may teach multiple courses; it is important to provide identifying information
   
• A brief, clear description of the reason for your e-mail (ex. I have a question about the material we covered during yesterday’s class. I’d like to clarify to make sure I understand.)

Do

• Verify the email address (check the syllabus or use People Finder – umass.edu/peoplefinder)
   
• Check that you have included a short explanation of the reason for the email in the ‘Subject’ line (ex. Question about exam)
   
• Use “I” statements

Don't

• Write in all caps (ex. URGENT – PLEASE RESPOND) – this is the computer equivalent of shouting and is not considered polite.
   
• Use emoticons (ex. ☺) – while those smileys may be fun, but are best left for social media.
   
• Use abbreviated speech or incorrect spelling (ex. pls can u help me) – respect academic writing conventions as if this were a paper

Faculty referrals

Throughout the semester, your instructor may communicate with Student Success & academic advisors regarding your progress in the course. Instructors may partner with your academic advisors & Student Success to assist you in better understanding course material which can aid you on your path to success.

If you are contacted regarding a faculty referral, please consider scheduling appointments with the resources suggested in the email such as tutoring, academic advising and/or talking with your professor. Referrals are not punitive and are meant to assist you in connecting with resources at UMass. Please email studentsuccess@umass.edu if you have any questions or need assistance connecting with resources.