Why won't professors respond to my e-mails?

SmithieandProud
Fri, 19 Nov 2010 18:16:14 +0000

Professors are very busy people. They get a lot of emails from a lot of students, they serve on committees, they grade papers, and they do their own research. I’m not saying this is an excuse for ignoring emails, but it’s just the reality. They probably have 100s of emails from students who need help with their math assignments for the next class, and they probably give those priority over your emails about research projects that may or may not currently be underway, or may or may not be of interest to them.

If they haven’t responded to your emails, the best thing to do is to find out when their office hours are and go and see them in person. Tell them you’re looking for an opportunity to do math research in x, y, and z area, adn you weren’t sure if there were any projects going on currently so X professor suggested you talk to them. If you’re interested in doing your own research that they monitor or mentor, come prepared to discuss your topic of interest. It’s also a good idea to read up on what the university’s research guidelines are. Depending on what year you are, you may be restricted from some research opportunities. Find out what the opportunities and rules are surrounding special studies or independent research projects as well. This can be a great way to conduct your own research with the guidance of a professor. It can sometimes lead to presenting at conferences, which can go on your resume.