Asking for recs via email Forum

[mcd343536]

My school's clerkship office just put out an email that there is clerkship spot for this upcoming fall. Would professors be turned off if I asked for a recommendation via email? Regretfully, I did not spend much time getting to know professors, but there are several professors who are highly regarded with whom I took multiple classes (think black-letter law class + a seminar) and in whose classes I made an A. My third year of law school made me realize how valuable the clerkship experience could be and after a break-up I have more geographic flexibility, so I figure I might as well shoot-my-shot. Thoughts?

[Wild Card]

Yes, it's perfectly fine.

I would write a first email making the request, briefly explaining why you want to clerk, and giving the prof. an opportunity to opt out.

If they say yes, then send them your materials.

[floatie]

Especially with everything going on now, an email request is perfectly fine! I had to email one professor for a recommendation since I asked her post COVID closures, and I added in a request/offer to have a follow-up phone call/Zoom call (which we did, and it was very helpful). I think something like that can show that you're not trying to be impersonal.

[decimalsanddollars]

Just adding another "yes" to the pile. Under normal circumstances, I'd say best practice is to contact by phone or in person, but given the state of the world right now and the fact that you've graduated, email is fine. Wild Card's recommended procedure is probably your best bet.