nukapprentice said:So I will be starting my Phd program in three weeks as a graduate intern. I was thinking of emailing my advisor with basic questions such as what I should be reading up on, relevant papers, what he would like me to get started on once I get there. However, I am worried that it will be perceived as bugging him. I was therefore wondering if it is alright to do this, and if it is, how I should go about doing it, thanks.
The appropriate way to email a future advisor is to introduce yourself, explain your interest in their research, and request a meeting to discuss your potential collaboration. It is important to be polite, professional, and concise in your email.
You should address the future advisor with their appropriate title and last name. For example, "Dear Dr. Smith" or "Dear Professor Johnson." It is important to use a formal and respectful tone in your email.
You should include enough information to introduce yourself and explain your interest in their research, but not so much that it becomes overwhelming or difficult to read. Be concise and to the point, and save more detailed information for a potential in-person meeting.
You can attach your resume or other relevant documents to the email, but make sure to keep them brief and relevant. Your email should serve as an introduction and request for a meeting, not a complete overview of your qualifications.
If you don't receive a response from the future advisor, you can follow up with a polite email after a reasonable amount of time has passed. If you still do not receive a response, it may be best to move on and reach out to other potential advisors.