Translated by OfferLand from the original Traditional Chinese post. View original
Ou Quinn
Aug 19, 2023
Should I mention the research topics I'm interested in when emailing professors?
As the title says ><
I'm wondering whether I should mention the research projects I'm interested in for the future in my email to professors about admission, especially in Engineer-related fields
Because I think bringing up research projects would make my email too long. And depending on how directly or indirectly the professor is connected to the topic and field, I'd have to add or cut details and explanation so the professor doesn't give up halfway…
On the other hand, describing them would show that I have a clear idea of my future research direction, that I've prepared and thought about potential research topics. It would also highlight my interest in and motivation for research in the email
I once heard a professor say that briefly describing the research projects you're interested in is a good idea, especially for new students who may not be very good at coming up with research ideas yet. At the same time, if professors have their own research focus, they also need to find students who fit it. So offering a few brief research ideas can meet both needs
I'd love to know what everyone thinks about this, or how you all found your professors… finding people across an ocean is really hard…