Emails are used as an important form of communication nowadays. Though they are generally used more for professional purposes, I believe that emails illustrate the sender’s or recipient’s character. This idea can be seen in the readings entitled Email (N)Ettiquettes and F Words of Effective Academic and Professional Writing. These readings further provide valid advice regarding the technicalities of sending proper emails.

I have been in many situations where my peers ask me to take a look at emails that they are sending to advisors. Upon first glance, I realize that some of the emails I’ve taken a look at sound informal and rushed in getting straight to the point. In addition, many times the emails weren’t framed professionally.  They were not enclosed with respectful beginnings and endings.

Based on my experience, I believe that it is crucial to start and conclude emails respectfully. Though this is a small detail, a simple gesture such as “Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you” can make the receiver see the sender as a polite and caring individual.

I recall coming across a properly and professionally sent email when I studied at Northeastern University. My friends were taking a calculus class, one in which the professor failed to communicate reasoning behind certain concepts effectively. Many students were also shocked to find material on the final that they were never taught before. As a result, one student, on behalf of the entire class sent an email to the director of the Mathematics department that addressed all of these concepts. She sent the email in a manner that conveyed clarity, respect, and professionalism. Upon seeing the email from the student. the director of the department provided the students with a generous curve on their final exam grade.

This example goes to show the importance of maintaining a professional and positive attitude when writing emails. In the professional world, individuals expect to receive emails like these. Therefore, I believe that it is important to start incorporating these concepts into emails now. That way, we can all learn to perfect our communication skills before entering the workforce.