Applying to a PhD program in mathematics is a big deal! You’ve probably spent hours crafting a perfect application, including your statement of purpose, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. But what happens after you hit “submit”? Well, sometimes you wait, and wait, and wait! That’s where **Writing A Follow Up Email For Math PhD Application** becomes important. A well-crafted follow-up can show your continued interest and help ensure your application hasn’t been lost in the shuffle. Let’s explore how to write effective follow-up emails.
Why Follow Up?
Why is it necessary to follow up? Think of it like this: imagine you’re applying for a summer job. You hand in your resume and cover letter, but maybe the hiring manager is super busy, and your application gets overlooked. A quick email can jog their memory and reiterate your interest. It’s the same with PhD applications. Here are some reasons why following up is a good idea:
- It demonstrates your enthusiasm.
- It gives you a chance to clarify anything about your application.
- It can help you get a response if you haven’t heard back.
Following up also shows you’re proactive and genuinely interested in the program. Some programs are extremely competitive, and professors and admissions committees are swamped with applications. A polite and timely follow-up email can help you stand out from the crowd. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Wait a reasonable amount of time (usually a few weeks to a month) after the application deadline before following up.
- Keep your email concise and professional.
- Proofread carefully! Typos and grammatical errors can make a bad impression.
Here’s what you should include in your follow-up email: a polite greeting, a brief reminder of who you are and what you’re applying for, and a clear statement of your request (e.g., an update on your application status). You can also briefly reiterate your interest in the program and mention any new accomplishments or publications, if appropriate.
Email Example: Checking on Application Status
Subject: Inquiry Regarding PhD Application - [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name] or Admissions Committee,
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to follow up on my application to the PhD program in Mathematics at [University Name], which I submitted on [Date of Submission]. My name is [Your Name], and my application ID is [Application ID Number, if you have one].
I understand you are likely very busy, but I would be grateful if you could provide an update on the status of my application. I am particularly excited about the research being conducted in [Specific Area of Research] and the opportunity to learn from Professor [Professor’s Last Name].
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Email Example: Expressing Continued Interest (After Silence)
Subject: Following Up - PhD Application - [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name] or Admissions Committee,
I am writing to follow up on my application to the PhD program in Mathematics at [University Name]. I submitted my application on [Date of Submission]. My name is [Your Name].
I am very interested in the opportunity to study at [University Name] and believe that my research interests align well with the work being done in [Department/Research Area].
Would it be possible to get an update on the timeline for admissions decisions? Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
Email Example: Highlighting New Achievements
Subject: Update to PhD Application - [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name] or Admissions Committee,
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to follow up on my application to the PhD program in Mathematics at [University Name]. I submitted my application on [Date of Submission]. My name is [Your Name].
Since submitting my application, I have [briefly describe your new accomplishment, e.g., “completed my undergraduate thesis on X,” “presented my research at Y conference,” “received a fellowship/award”]. I believe this further demonstrates my commitment to research in [Area of Research].
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
Email Example: Clarifying Information
Subject: Clarification Regarding PhD Application - [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name] or Admissions Committee,
I am writing to follow up on my application to the PhD program in Mathematics at [University Name], which I submitted on [Date of Submission]. My name is [Your Name].
I realized that there might be some confusion regarding [Specific Point of Confusion in Your Application]. [Briefly Clarify the Issue]. I wanted to clarify this to avoid any misunderstanding.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
Email Example: Contacting a Specific Professor
Subject: Inquiry - PhD Application - [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I applied to the PhD program in Mathematics at [University Name] on [Date of Submission]. I am particularly interested in your research on [Professor’s Research Area] and I was hoping to know if you have time to have a chat with me.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
Email Example: Following Up After an Interview
Subject: Thank You - PhD Interview - [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
Thank you for taking the time to interview me on [Date of Interview]. I enjoyed learning more about the PhD program and the research being conducted at [University Name]. I am particularly excited about [Mention something specific from the interview].
I reiterate my strong interest in joining the program. Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
In conclusion, **Writing A Follow Up Email For Math PhD Application** is a valuable tool in the application process. It allows you to demonstrate your enthusiasm, clarify any confusion, and stay top-of-mind. By using the examples above and tailoring them to your specific situation, you can increase your chances of getting a positive response and ultimately, being accepted into your desired program. Good luck with your applications!