How to Introduce Yourself Via Email to Your Professor

Introducing yourself to the professor is an important step when beginning a new semester in college, especially if you are in an online class. By sending an email, you are able to verify that you have the correct contact information for the professor and that the professor has the correct contact information for you. Don't wait until you have a problem before making contact; it could take longer to resolve your issue.

Open a new email. Insert the professor's email address in the "send to" line. Enter your last name, class synonym and the word "Introduction" in the subject line. The subject line is used to tell the professor the reason for your email and will help ensure you don't end up in the spam folder.

Begin with the salutation, also referred to as the greeting, in the body of the email. "Dear [recipient's proper name]" is a good example. For a more informal introduction, "Hello [recipient's given name]" is suitable. Avoid using slang terms such as "hey."

Space down to a new line after the salutation. Include your full name, class name and synonym (if applicable) within the first sentence. It is helpful to let your professor know the class you are in, because each class generally has numerous students. A long paragraph is not necessary.

End with "thank you" and then space down to a new line. There you will create a signature block that will include your name and contact information. Include your email address and phone number should the professor ever need to contact you via phone.

Send the email. You should receive an acknowledgment email from the professor within a couple of days. If you do not hear back, send another email because your email might have ended up in the junk folder. Request being added to the professor's safe list to ensure future emails aren't lost.