Professor Dr. Moha. Yamin Hossain
Department of Fisheries, University of Rajshahi.
To obtain a scholarship for higher education abroad, Bangladeshi fellows must approach foreign supervisor professors strategically and systematically. Building a relationship with a foreign professor and getting the opportunity to work under their guidance is a crucial step. Below are detailed steps to help you through this process:
1. Preparing Relevant Research and Determining Areas of Interest:
First, assess yourself to identify your areas of interest and expertise in a specific research topic or field. Before contacting a professor, you should have a clear idea about the research you want to pursue. It is important to be knowledgeable about the professor’s previous research and published work. If you are aware of their research area and can discuss it, the professor is more likely to be interested in you.
2. Preparing Research Papers and a Research Profile:
Before reaching out to foreign professors, it is essential to prepare a solid research paper or profile. You should mention any relevant research work, projects, and articles you have completed. Your CV or research paper should highlight your main research activities, skills, and achievements so the professor can assess your qualifications.
3. Initial Contact via Email:
Email is the primary method of contacting foreign professors. When sending an email, the following points should be kept in mind:
⊕ Clear and Concise Email:
Your email should be brief and to the point. Clearly mention your area of interest, your skills, and why you wish to work under their supervision.
⊕ Personalization:
Begin your email by mentioning the professor’s name and refer to their research in the opening section. This shows you are aware of and interested in their work.
⊕ Well-Structured Email:
Mention your current education and work experience, your research plans, and your interest in the scholarship.
⊕ Avoid Sending Multiple Emails:
Send one email to a professor and wait. If you do not receive a reply, you may send a follow-up email after a few days.
4. Including Research-Related Questions or Discussions:
You can include some relevant questions or discussions based on the professor’s research in your email. For example, mention how you could contribute to their current research. This can interest the professor and lead to an opportunity to work with them.
5. Preparing Required Documents:
You may attach your CV, research paper, and any publications to your email. Additionally, if you have a research proposal, you can also include it. The proposal should be specific and well-organized, outlining your research plans.
6. Discussing Research Funding and Scholarship Opportunities:
In your email communication, you may mention scholarships and funding. If you wish to work under the professor, you can ask whether they can provide funding or if it’s possible to secure funding through your preferred scholarship program.
7. Social Media and Networking:
You can connect with professors on platforms like LinkedIn or ResearchGate. Make sure your profile on such networking platforms is updated and highlights your research and interests. If you meet professors at conferences or workshops, make use of those opportunities as well.
8. Patience:
Keep in mind that professors are often very busy and receive many emails. It may take some time to receive a response, so be patient and follow up at the right time.
By following these steps, you can build a strong relationship with a foreign supervisor professor and increase your chances of securing research opportunities and scholarships for higher studies.
Below are guidelines and a sample copy of how to write an email to a foreign professor:
It is essential to follow certain guidelines when emailing a foreign supervisor professor. Your email creates a first impression, so it should be brief, clear, and professional. Here are the rules for writing such an email, along with a sample.
Guidelines for writing an email:
1. Choosing the Subject Line:
The subject line of your email should be attractive and appropriate, so the professor immediately recognizes its importance. For example, “Potential MS/PhD Supervision Opportunity in [Research Area]”.
2. Introduction:
Introduce yourself at the beginning of the email. Mention your educational background, your current university, and the subject you are working on.
3. Interest in Professor’s Work:
Briefly specify which aspects of the professor’s research attracted you. This proves you are interested in and aware of their work.
4. Description of Your Work:
Write about your current research or area of interest and explain how it relates to the professor’s research. This will help the professor understand why you are suitable for their research group.
5. Coherent Research Plan:
If you have a specific research proposal, mention it briefly and indicate if scholarship opportunities are available for it.
6. Closing the Application:
Close respectfully by seeking the professor’s response and mentioning that you have attached your CV, research proposal, or publications.
7. Professional Formatting:
The email should be polite and professional, using concise, accurate, and clear language.
Sample Email:
⊕ Subject: Potential MS Supervision Opportunity in [Aquatic Biodiversity Research]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Full Name], and I have recently completed my Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries from [Your University Name], Bangladesh. I have developed a keen interest in aquatic biodiversity, particularly focusing on the conservation of freshwater species. Your groundbreaking research on fish population dynamics and aquatic ecosystems has greatly inspired me, and I would be honored to pursue a Master’s degree under your supervision.
I have worked on several projects during my undergraduate studies, including the “Estimation of Aquatic Biodiversity in Wetland Ecosystems of NW Bangladesh.” My work involved the assessment of fish diversity, water quality parameters, and conservation strategies. I believe my research interests align closely with your ongoing work, particularly your study on the biodiversity of riverine species, and I am confident that I can contribute meaningfully to your research team.
I am very interested in applying for the upcoming [Scholarship Program] at your university, and I would highly appreciate your guidance regarding any potential openings in your research group. I have attached my CV and a brief research proposal for your consideration.
I look forward to your positive response and would be grateful for any opportunity to discuss my application further.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[LinkedIn Profile, if applicable]
Attachments:
⊕ CV
⊕ Research Proposal (if any)
By following this sample and these guidelines, it will be easier to establish a relationship with your supervisor, increasing your chances of securing scholarship opportunities abroad.
Note: Collected from Facebook:——–https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1Dho5hGPrQ/?mibextid=ZbWKwL
Leave a comment