It has come to my attention that a majority of college students do not know how to send a professional email. Whether you are emailing regarding absences, missed work, or a question, your email needs to sound and look professional. Not only is this an essential skill for college life, but it also carries into life after school. From working in corporate America, conversing with your boss, or your future child’s teacher, knowing how to write a proper email is a good life skill to have. Lets jump in!

1. The first step in sending an email is making sure it comes from the proper address. You do not want to email your professor from your personal email, so ensure that you are using your SWOSU email address(@student.swosu.edu). 
2. Have a clear and direct subject line. You do not need to give your whole email away in the subject line but ensure that you can tell what the email is referenced in the line. If you have a question about an assignment given in class your subject line could simply be the Assignment Title. If you are emailing about being absent from class that day the subject line could be Class Today. 
3. Next, you need a professional greeting. This line can be as simple as Good Morning Professor [Last Name], or Greetings Mr. [Last Name]. Try and avoid causal phrasing such as hey, or what’s up. Make sure you are also addressing your Professor correctly, know their title, whether it be Mr./Mrs./Dr/Professor/Instructor. If you are unsure, reference the syllabus for the course of the staff directory. 
4. You may need to introduce yourself at the beginning of the email. This depends on the context, if it’s the beginning of the semester, if it is a large class size, or if you have never contacted this professor before. This could simply look like: My name is [Full Name], I am in your [Class days and time], 
5. Get to the point. Surely, when you are emailing your professor you have a reason to, get to the point of the email and make it short and sweet.
6. Wrap it up with a proper closing. Best wishes, Sincerely, Thank you, etc. End with your name and if needed your Student ID number.

Here’s an example email to reference

______________________________________________________________________________

Subject Line: Clarification on Essay Requirements for [Class Name]

Good Afternoon Professor [Last Name],

I hope you’re doing well! I’m [Your Full Name], and I’m in your [Class Name] class that meets on [days/times].

I’m reaching out to ask for clarification on the upcoming essay assignment. Specifically, I’m unsure if we’re required to include outside sources or if using only the course materials is acceptable.

Thank you in advance for your help!

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID, if needed]

______________________________________________________________________________

Remember, your professor wants you to ask questions and communicate with them—so don’t be afraid to send an email. Just make sure it’s written appropriately and sent at an appropriate time. You shouldn’t be emailing your professor past 7 p.m. unless it’s an emergency or extenuating circumstance. Always be respectful, kind, and professional.

A good email can leave a great impression—so make it count!