Need to ask a professor to be your dissertation chair? It all starts with a letter. This “Sample Letter To Requesting To Serve As A Dissertation Chair” is your formal ask. Students often send this when they’re ready to begin their dissertation. It’s a critical first step in their research journey.
Writing this letter can feel daunting. What should you say? How do you ask politely? This article is here to help.
We’ve got you covered. We’ll share sample letters to make things easier. These templates will guide your writing. Get ready to craft the perfect request.
Sample Letter To Requesting To Serve As A Dissertation Chair
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Professor’s Name]
[Professor’s Department]
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this letter finds you well.
I am writing to request your consideration to serve as the chair of my dissertation committee. I plan to focus my dissertation on [briefly state dissertation topic].
Your expertise in [Professor’s area of expertise] aligns perfectly with my research interests, and I greatly admire your work on [mention specific publication or project]. I believe your guidance would be invaluable as I develop and complete my dissertation.
I have attached a brief dissertation proposal outlining my research question, methodology, and expected contributions. I would be honored if you would review it and consider my request.
I am available to meet with you at your convenience to discuss my dissertation project and how your expertise could contribute to its success. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID Number]
How to Write Sample Letter To Requesting To Serve As A Dissertation Chair
Subject Line: Capturing Their Attention
- Be succinct and direct. A subject line such as “Dissertation Chair Request – [Your Name]” immediately conveys the purpose of your email.
- Avoid ambiguity. Refrain from vague subject lines that might be overlooked amidst the recipient’s inbox deluge.
Salutation: Setting the Right Tone
- Address the professor by their formal title (e.g., “Dear Professor Smith”) unless you have a pre-existing rapport that warrants a more informal greeting.
- Demonstrate respect. A well-chosen salutation establishes a professional foundation for your request.
- Clearly state your intention to request them as your dissertation chair. Don’t bury the lede.
- Briefly allude to their research interests and how they align with your dissertation topic. This showcases that you’ve done your homework and are not making a haphazard request.
- For instance: “I am writing to respectfully request your consideration to serve as the chair of my dissertation committee. Your seminal work on [Professor’s Research Area] deeply resonates with my own research focus on [Your Dissertation Topic].”
Body Paragraph 1: Detailing Your Dissertation Topic
- Provide a concise yet compelling overview of your dissertation topic. Highlight the key research question and its potential contribution to the field.
- Avoid jargon or overly technical language. Make it accessible and intriguing, even to someone not intimately familiar with your specific area.
- Articulate the significance of your research. Why should anyone care about this topic? What problem are you trying to solve or what gap are you trying to fill?
Body Paragraph 2: Justifying Your Choice of Chair
- Explicitly state why you are requesting this particular professor to be your chair. Don’t just say they are a “good researcher”.
- Highlight specific publications, projects, or expertise that make them uniquely suited to guide your research.
- Show that you understand and appreciate their work. “Your nuanced perspective on [Specific Theory or Method] would be invaluable in navigating the complexities of my data analysis.”
Concluding Paragraph: Expressing Gratitude and Proposing Next Steps
- Express your sincere gratitude for their time and consideration. Acknowledge the demands on their schedule.
- Propose a meeting to discuss your dissertation in more detail. Be flexible and suggest a few different times.
- “Thank you for considering my request. I understand your time is valuable, and I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss my dissertation proposal with you further. Would you be available for a brief meeting sometime next week?”
Closing: A Professional Sign-off
- Use a formal closing such as “Sincerely” or “Respectfully”.
- Follow with your full name and student ID (if applicable).
- Proofread meticulously. Typos and grammatical errors can undermine your credibility.
Frequently Asked Questions: Requesting to Serve as a Dissertation Chair
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the process of requesting a faculty member to chair your dissertation. Understanding these guidelines can help you approach potential advisors professionally and effectively.
What information should I include in my request letter?
Your letter should clearly state your academic background, research interests, the specific dissertation topic you intend to pursue, and why you believe this particular faculty member would be a suitable advisor.
How early should I approach potential dissertation chairs?
It is advisable to contact potential chairs well in advance, ideally several months before you need to finalize your committee. This allows them time to consider your request and discuss it with you.
What should I do if a professor declines my request?
If a professor declines, thank them for their time and consideration. Do not take it personally; seek advice from other faculty members on alternative options for finding a chair.
Is it appropriate to send the same request letter to multiple professors?
While you can adapt a template, personalize each letter to demonstrate genuine interest in each professor’s specific expertise. Avoid sending identical, generic requests.
What if I don’t receive a response to my initial request?
If you haven’t received a response within a reasonable timeframe (e.g., two weeks), it is acceptable to send a polite follow-up email expressing your continued interest.
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