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What's the proper etiquette for e-mailing your college professor?

Different people tell you different things. Should you address him/her as Dr., Professor, or something else? Do you use Dear, Hi, Hello, etc.? How do you sign it?
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gno
gno
Marked as Best! October 14, 2009 01:19 AM
I would err on the side of formality. Unless the professor has expressly asked you to address him as "Michael" or "Susan", then you should address him/her by their formal titles:

"Professor Examplehead"
or
"Dr. Examplehead"

Use formal grammar, salutations, and closing. Be polite and grateful for his/her assistance. I would close an email by writing:

"Thank you for your assistance and your time.

Regards,

Jane Q. Student
HIST 340
janeqstudent@fakecollege.edu"

Remember that erring on the side of formality is a nod of respect to your professor, which is earned and deserved. Being too casual could be offensive and/or irritating, and you may not get the full assistance you need, or your standing in the class may suffer.

Thank you for your question and consideration of my answer.

Regards,

Gno. Q. Answerer
Conundrum
gno@fakeaddress.com
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redgold
redgold
October 14, 2009 01:04 AM
It depends on the relationship you have with your professor as well as the professor him or herself. Some professors will tell you to call them by their first name, some say straight out that they prefer to be addressed as Dr. So and So or Professor So and So. When I was in college, what I called a professor changed depending on all of these factors, as well as how well I knew the professor. If you are looking for a good blanket rule of thumb, however, I would always start with Dear Professor name here, and end with Sincerely, name here. Even if you are writing a more informal letter, this beginning and ending is still applicable. I would not start with Hi or Hey unless you know the professor pretty well and you know they will respond to such an informal address. Also, remember most professors love to talk to their students. It's one of the reasons they became professors. So don't be afraid to reach out and don't stress too much over how to do so.
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