Connecting with faculty is one of the most valuable steps you can take in college. Faculty can open doors to research opportunities, mentorship, and career guidance — and those connections often shape your academic and professional journey in lasting ways. Reaching out can feel intimidating at first, but remember that professors want to support students. A simple conversation can be the start of meaningful opportunities and relationships. Follow our guidance below for best practices and support with this process.
Getting Started
Getting Started
Email is the most common way to contact faculty and arrange a time to speak. Review our email etiquette and tips to learn more about how to craft a professional introductory email. OUR Advisors are also available to help you with drafting emails.
Another option is to go to faculty office hours. Conversations during office hours can vary, ranging from a brief introduction and arranging a time for further conversation, to an in-depth discussion of interests. As you won’t know in advance which will result from dropping in during office hours, be ready to engage in an in-depth discussion if the opportunity arises.
Email Etiquette and Tips
A strong professional email has four key components: introduction, connection, explanation, and next steps.
- Introduction
Begin by introducing yourself and explaining why you are reaching out. - Connection
Make a personal connection by highlighting shared interests, goals, or experiences. If someone referred you, mention that here. - Explanation
Be specific about your interests. What aspects of their research or work capture your attention? What sparked your curiosity about their topic or field? What motivates you to learn more about the problem or question they are addressing? Clearly state what you are seeking—for example, a conversation about their research in ________, or information about potential opportunities to assist with their work in ________. - Next Steps
Close your email by suggesting a concrete next step. For instance, you might share your availability and ask if they would be open to meeting at that time, or if it would be alright to stop by their office hours. If you are contacting a professional outside the University, you can ask if they would be available for a brief 20–30 minute phone call (often referred to as an informational interview).
Tips for Writing Professional Emails
- Keep it short – Limit your email to 4–6 sentences with only the most important information. Save details for a follow-up or conversation.
- Make a reasonable ask – It’s fine to request a meeting to learn more about someone’s work. Wait until after that conversation to ask about joining their lab or project.
- Stay formal – Use a professional tone, even if you’ve spoken with them before. Always start with “Dear Dr./Professor/Mr./Ms. [Last Name].”
- Be genuine – Reach out only to people whose work truly interests you. Avoid flattery or exaggerating your interests.
- Include professional contact info – End with your UConn email and phone number. Make sure your email address and voicemail greeting are professional.
- Use referrals carefully – Mention a referral only if the person gave you permission. Don’t overstate your connections.
- Be patient – Don’t expect an immediate reply. If you don’t hear back in 10 business days, resend your email once. If there’s still no response, stop by office hours or move on.
For additional guidance from the OUR Peer Research Ambassadors, check out the following Student Research Blog posts:
Example 1
Dear Dr _____,
I am a ____ (class year) majoring in _____ (indicate your major, and minor, if applicable). I read your journal article on ____ (article topic) and am very interested in your current research on ____ (research topic). I am interested in _____ (topic) and was excited to learn of the connection to your work. In particular, I am drawn to _____ (specific aspect of research).
I would appreciate the opportunity to talk with you further about your research and would welcome any advice you would have for me as an aspiring _____ (field/topic) researcher.
I am available for a virtual conversation on Tuesday or Thursday afternoons, any time after 1pm, though I can be flexible to accommodate your schedule. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Husky
jonathan.husky@uconn.edu
860-486-0000
Example 2
Dear Dr. _____,
I am a ____ (class year) majoring in _____ (major/minor). I am writing to express interest in your research on ______ (research topic). I was excited to read about your latest advance in ______ (topic) in UConn Today.
As an aspiring ______ (career or academic goal), I have focused my coursework on ______ (specific topics). Previous research experiences in _______ (research background) have given me a background in ______ (topic), but I’ve continued to be drawn towards _______ (topic connected to their research). In particular, I was excited by your focus on _______ (specific topic).
I would appreciate an opportunity to meet with you _______ (virtually or in person) to learn more about your research. My schedule is flexible, and I am able to meet at a time that is convenient for you. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Husky
jonathan.husky@uconn.edu
860-486-0000
Example 3
Dear Dr. _____,
My name is Jonathan and I am a first-year undergraduate majoring in _____ and minoring in _____. I’m very interested in your research on _____. I was first introduced to this topic in my senior year of high school when I completed a project on _____ in my _____ class. This semester I’m taking _____ with Dr. _____ and have had a chance to explore this topic from a different angle. Through my readings, I came across your study on _____ and was intrigued by the focus on _____.
I would appreciate the chance to have a conversation with you to learn more about your research on _____. Can I stop by your office hours on Thursdays, or is there a better time for us to meet? I’m typically available on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons but can be flexible to fit your schedule. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Husky
University of Connecticut, Class of 20XX
email address
he/him/his
Example 4
Dear Dr. _________,
My name is ______ and I am a sophomore, XYZ major interested in your research on ____________. With the rapidly evolving _______, I am intrigued by __________ and how it can impact__________. While exploring this area further in my ABC1000 course, I came across your research on _________ and read your paper on _________, igniting my interest in learning more about ________.
I would appreciate the chance to talk with you more about your current research, your career path, and any advice you may have for me as someone who aspires to contribute to research on ________. Can I schedule a time to meet with you in the coming weeks? I’m free on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, as well as Monday afternoons, though can be flexible to fit your availability.
Thank you for considering this request.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Husky
Email Address
University of Connecticut, Class of 20XX
Example 5
Dear Dr. _____,
My name is ABC Student and I’m a sophomore majoring in Allied Health Sciences. I was exploring research on_________ when I came across your paper in ______ (journal or publication name) on _______ (topic). I was intrigued by the impact of _______ on ________, and the overall implications of ______.
I was first introduced to ________ in Dr. Carson’s _____ course (class name and/or topic), where we studied ______. I continued to develop my interest by taking _________ and ________, where I expanded my understanding of ____________.
Now, as I look ahead to my Honors thesis, I am exploring options to combine my interest in _______ with my academic background in __________. I would appreciate the opportunity to speak with you to learn more about your research and any advice you may have for me as I plan my next steps and build my knowledge on these topics. Are you available for a meeting this week or next? I’m typically free on Mondays and Wednesdays until 11am, though can work around your schedule.
I appreciate you considering this request and look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
ABC Student
email address
she/her/hers
Example 6
Dear Professor ____,
I am a junior majoring in ____. Last year I had the opportunity to study ____ with Professor ___ in her ____ class. I was particularly drawn to the intersection of ____ and ____, and exploring the relationships between _____ and _____. While researching these areas further, I came upon your paper on _____ and was excited to learn about your current research on ____, as this aligns with the direction I want to go with my honors thesis next year.
Can I schedule a meeting to discuss your research? Below I have included my availability for the coming weeks, though I can be flexible to fit with your schedule. I appreciate your consideration. Also, look forward to taking your course next semester on _____ and gaining additional insight into ____.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Husky
University of Connecticut, Class of 20XX
email address
he/him/his
Example 7
Dear Professor___,
I am fascinated by the molecular biology of stem cells. Recently I read your 2024 paper on the role of microRNAs in the differentiation of muscle stem cells published in ____ journal and found your conclusions to be intriguing. In particular, I found it amazing that __________ can impact _________.
As a junior MCB major, I have developed a strong background in _____ and feel I am now ready to contribute to the field of molecular biology. I would appreciate the opportunity to talk with you more about your current research and the ways in which undergraduate students are able to assist.
Are you available for a meeting in the coming weeks? I am available on Monday and Wednesday afternoons, though can be available at other times to fit with your schedule. I look forward to talking with you soon and learning more about your research.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Husky
Email Address, Phone Number
Example 8
Dear Mr. ____,
I’m a junior at the University of Connecticut, double majoring in History and Spanish. Your name was given to me by Professor ______, who is serving as my mentor on an independent research project I’m completing on _____. If possible, I would like to talk with you more about your research on _____. I am especially curious about the study you conducted to examine the impact of _____ on _____.
I would also appreciate learning more about the work that ABC Nonprofit is doing to educate the public on _____. Are you available for a brief phone conversation next Thursday or Friday afternoon? Thank you in advance for your consideration and I hope to speak with you soon.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Husky
Jonathan.husky@uconn.edu
999-999-9999
Preparing For Your Conversation
It’s important to remember that in asking for an informational meeting, whether with faculty or professional staff, you are asking for the favor of a person’s time and expertise, and you need to take this seriously. Do your homework and prepare for the conversation. Start by reviewing their bio and/or CV; these are often available on department websites. If their publications or research affiliations are listed, try to read a few articles and review information about the research center(s) they’re affiliated with to learn more about their work.
Prepare a list of questions you would like to ask or topics to discuss. You may or may not need your questions – every conversation is different – but it’s best to be prepared. Below are sample questions to get you started. Add additional questions that are tailored to the person you’re going to be speaking with and your interests in their work.
Sample Questions
Sample Questions
- What skills should I develop to prepare me to engage in research or creative projects in this field?
- Are there courses that you would recommend I take to help me develop those skills?
- What do you typically look for in an apprentice or research assistant?
- How did you get started in research?
- How did you choose your research topic/question? How did you become interested in this area/topic/question/project?
Questions about Your Background
In addition to having questions for them, you need to be prepared to answer questions about yourself. Common questions include:
- Tell me about yourself.
- What are your research/creative interests?
- What have you been studying? Why did you choose that course of study?
- What goals do you have for your future?
Faculty often use introductory questions such as these to start the conversation and to get to know you. Your answers should demonstrate your communication skills and ability to clearly express your interests and goals. Though you don’t need to have your life planned out or be able to discuss a specific topic of interest, you do need to be able to explain why you’re interested in an area of study, as well as your desire to learn more about the field. Review our guidelines on telling your story to help you craft a thoughtful answer to the most common introductory question, “Tell me about yourself.”
Making a Positive Impression
Whether dropping in during office hours or meeting with a professor for a longer conversation, it’s essential to present yourself well. Use the tips below to ensure you are making a positive impression.
- Professional appearance: First impressions are made quickly. You don’t need to be wearing a suit to look professional, but do need to be neat and well-groomed. Pajamas, slippers, wrinkled or soiled clothes do not fit the bill; save these for another day.
- Professional handshake: Not all professors will initiate or expect a handshake upon meeting you for the first time, but if they do, you need to be prepared. A firm, not crushing, professional handshake is a skill that can take time to develop. Practice shaking hands with friends. You’ll learn quickly what works, what doesn’t, and become comfortable with this essential professional skill that will come in handy (pun intended) well beyond meetings with potential faculty mentors.
- Eye contact: Making eye contact signals that you are interested in and engaged with the conversation. It also demonstrates confidence. Poor eye contact may be seen as a lack of confidence or make you appear disinterested and disengaged.
- Body language: Sit up straight and lean slightly forward to show interest. Avoid slouching, fidgeting, and over-exaggerated hand gestures, as these may draw attention away from what you’re saying and make you seem distracted or uncomfortable.
- Energy and enthusiasm: Smile and maintain constant positive energy. This will go a long way towards demonstrating your interest.
Student Perspective
Student Perspective
For additional guidance from the OUR Peer Research Ambassadors, check out the following Student Research Blog posts:
- The Importance of Connecting With Your PI
- 4 Ways to Get Into Undergraduate Research
- Getting In Touch: Making Contact With Professors
- It’s OK to be Told “No”
- Meeting with Professors for the First Time
- I Don’t Understand Anything in These Papers!
- Research Mentors: Who, Why, and How
- Developing an Elevator Pitch
- Finding and Approaching a Project Mentor: Creative Projects Edition
Telling Your Story
Telling Your Story
“Tell me about yourself.” You’ll hear this question often—at the start of an informational meeting, at networking events, or at conferences. It sounds simple, but without preparation it can be tricky.
When someone asks this, they want to know:
- Your background
- What sparked your interest in their field or research
- What you already know about the field or their work
- What you hope to gain from the conversation
Your answer should be a short story that sets the tone and helps guide the discussion.
How to Structure Your Story
- Background – Share key details about yourself: coursework, internships, jobs, campus activities, goals. Highlight what’s most relevant.
- Interests – Explain what you learned from those experiences, how they shaped your interests, and why this field or research matters to you.
- Goals for the conversation – Wrap up with what you’re hoping to learn. For example:“My goal is to ___________. I’d like to build my __________ skills and gain exposure to __________. I’ve looked into labs/projects on campus that interest me and would appreciate your advice on which might be a good fit for my background and goals.”
Tips for Success
- Stay professional – Instead of bluntly asking “Can I work in your lab?”, frame your interest as seeking advice and guidance.
- Do your homework – Show you’ve researched the field or lab before reaching out.
- Keep it concise – Aim for about a minute (no more than two). Focus on what’s relevant, not your full personal history.
- Practice – Rehearse so it sounds natural, not scripted. Each version can vary slightly, as long as you hit your main points.
Building Your Network
Building Your Network
Research and creative projects happen everywhere—nonprofits, businesses, government agencies, research centers, and other universities. As you work toward your academic and career goals, building a strong network of mentors on and off campus is key.
Why Build Your Network?
Mentors who understand your goals can:
- Open doors to new opportunities
- Offer collaboration and connections
- Provide guidance as you explore next steps in academia, research, the public sector, entrepreneurship, or beyond
How to Build Your Network
- Start with familiar strategies – Use the same approach as connecting with faculty: identify professionals of interest and reach out for informational meetings. (See our guides on email etiquette, sample emails, and telling your story.)
- Expand off campus – Ask faculty mentors to recommend experts, organizations, or research centers in your area of interest.
- Leverage alumni – UConn graduates are often eager to support students. Explore the UConn Alumni Career Network, LinkedIn, and our Building Connections with LinkedIn guide.
- Attend events – Conferences and professional associations (many with student discounts) are great places to meet contacts and explore opportunities.
- Stay informed – Follow publications and news outlets in your field (e.g., Biospace, The Journal of American History) to learn who’s doing cutting-edge work and where research is happening.
Maintaining Your Network
Networking isn’t one-and-done—relationships grow over time. Stay in touch by:
- Sharing occasional updates on your progress or achievements
- Reaching out with questions or to discuss challenges
- Adjusting the frequency of contact based on your stage—seniors job-hunting may check in more often than first-years just starting out