How to Reconnect with Professors

[TurkDorian]

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Hey guys,

I had a quick question about a professor.

During my first year of University (I am now in second year), there was a professor whom I talked to during office hours and sometimes after class. He knew my name and recognized me outside of class. He also acted as a reference for me for a position I was applying for (although a letter was not written as it was not needed). However, whenever I talked to this professor, it was always only about the course and questions I had in the course. Now that I do not have any classes with this professor, I wanted to know if you guys could give me any advice on how to start getting close to this professor again because I feel that he would be able to write me a very strong reference letter when the time comes for me to apply. Should I just randomly go to his office and if yes, what should I say?

Thanks! 🙂

 

[Dr Turkelton]

Nice username

 

[Gauss44]

Hey guys,

I had a quick question about a professor.

During my first year of University (I am now in second year), there was a professor whom I talked to during office hours and sometimes after class. He knew my name and recognized me outside of class. He also acted as a reference for me for a position I was applying for (although a letter was not written as it was not needed). However, whenever I talked to this professor, it was always only about the course and questions I had in the course. Now that I do not have any classes with this professor, I wanted to know if you guys could give me any advice on how to start getting close to this professor again because I feel that he would be able to write me a very strong reference letter when the time comes for me to apply. Should I just randomly go to his office and if yes, what should I say?

Thanks! 🙂

I think dropping in would be fine as long as you ask if he has a minute. Alternatively, I would send him an email or leave a voice message to set up an appointment about getting back in touch and possibly discussing a reference letter.

 

[Barcu]

Email him and ask him to meet and talk. Say that ultimately you want to get an LOR. Professors are used to these types of situations and it shouldn't be a big deal.

If you want an LOR from someone, you should get that letter from them asap, even if you won't need it for a year or two. Have them write it then and save it, then you can get it later (and they can add a later date). Don't try to simply hang out with a professor just to keep the option open. Just ask them because you are fresher in their mind and it will be a better letter. The only exception is if you plan to take another class from this professor or work with him in some other capacity. Then you should wait. But if you don't anticipate that, just meet with him.

EDIT: Oh, I forgot to add. If you do get it now, have them update it before you get the official one (meet with them, give them an updated resume/CV, and a copy of your personal statement).

 

[ChiapetBrownie]

I think dropping in would be fine as long as you ask if he has a minute. Alternatively, I would send him an email or leave a voice message to set up an appointment about getting back in touch and possibly discussing a reference letter.

yes, i've emailed to discuss a potential reference letter on several different occasions. one particular thing about my emails was stating (in the email) what motivated me to request a recommendation letter specifically from them, e.g. 'i've worked closely with you on presentations' or 'you've seen me in different capacities and can attest to my work ethic' things like that work wonders