Asking professor for a hook-up Forum

[Anonymous User]

Please don't quote

What is the best way to ask a professor to put in a good word at a firm where they have connections? Say you've done RA work for this professor that they've liked, but you never had them in class. This is relatively last minute (screener in a few days) because you are a failure in many ways.

How do you ask? What do you send along with the ask (resumé? transcript?) What exactly do you ask the professor to do?

[Sprout]

I've done this before and for me I just emailed them (if going into their office isn't an available option - wasn't for me) and said:

Hi Professor X,

I have applied for X and I am really excited about the possibility of working there/clerking/whatever.

I know it is super last minute so I completely understand if you are too busy, but is there any chance you could ______ (write me a reference/ rec, give me any advice you might have, contact blah blah).

I loved your course/enjoyed RAing (whatever) and feel that since that taking your class/ being your RA, you might be able to speak more personably of me than any other professors. Again, I understand if you can't find the time but if at all possible I would greatly appreciate it if ____(repeat the request).

Thank you very much. I hope you have been well and I look forward to seeing you/ meeting with you/ corresponding further etc, again soon.

Best,

Sprout.


Done this twice with two days to spare. Ime response has been great but I might have been v lucky. Ymmv, gl.

Edit: just in case it's not blatantly obvious, edit this. Just thoughts this is in no way what you should send without much doctoring and proofing.

PS I did attach a resume for convenience. Might mention that if you do, saying its there just for convenience. (Don't push it) again, just imo.

[Anonymous User]

Thank you for the example and the encouragement!

[Anonymous User]

Just wanted to update that this worked out! Thank you again for your help with it.