<p>I’ve recieved a number of replies from professors in my field of interest (political science) and I’m really quite excited about the possibility of working with them over the summer, or even earlier. I encourage all of you to at least give it a try and send out a few emails. Don’t expect to assist them on groundbreaking research as an equal. There’s simply no way that’s going to happen. Instead, be open to various possibilities. Let your passion for your field of interest show in your email. Let them know how honored you would be to work for them, and always be respectful and mindful of the fact that they are very busy individuals. If you’re lucky, as I have been, you may get a few responses and then you go from there. Meet with the professor in person (you go to him - don’t expect him to come to you) and just have fun. Seriously. </p>
<p>Also, a word of advice. If you’re really serious about working with someone, don’t send emails to the tenured faculty with a bazillion published articles and graduate level classes. Instead, try to single out younger, newer faculty members who teach at the undergraduate level (maybe introductory courses), and perhaps have a little more time on their hands/scheduling flexibility. It seems to have worked for me, that’s all I’ll say.</p>