How does this email sound to my professor?
Question:
The teacher gave me a C which I seriously am fine with considering all of the circumstances. I, however, believe in trying for more. If I'm unsuccessful, at least I know I tried my best. Without sending a letter I know I didn't try my best and I'll always wonder what my odds were regarding getting a better grade and GPA.
Here's the letter:
Dear Professor R___,
I’m sending this email in hope that I can complete the chapters I have missed. I’ve quit my overwhelming job and am back to relying solely on student loans. I know this is too little too late on my part and if my grade is absolutely FINAL I completely understand and accept this. I still haven’t had my computer taken care of but I intend to spend every day this week in the library and computer lab at M___ College catching up in all of my classes. I appreciate the help you’ve given me through this class.
Answer:
Wow. I thought your opening paragraph was the letter. I was just going to walk away!
I'd get rid of th e"overwhelming" because it cries "poor me," the "FINAL" in all caps, because it's pushy,
What about something like:
Dear Professor,
I apologize for being so last minute, but I was wondering if there was any way I could improve my grade. As you know, it has been a difficult semester, and though that is no excuse for myself, I know that I can do better.
If this is too late, I understand, but please know I am willing to complete all missed assignments and dedicate myself entirely to catching up.
Thank you again for everything you've done for me,
NAME
..right..
I think the letter isn't too bad.
But...did you really quit your job?!?
Well, if I was the professor I would give you a second chance. So ti depends if your professor has a heart or not.
Please don't take this wrong, I'm NOT trying to just make you feel bad but honestly, it sounds a little whiney. Maybe you could leave off the "relying on loans" and the "haven't had my computer taken care of" parts. I think it just sounds like "poor me, don't you feel sorry for me?" kind of thing. Maybe your teacher would respect more of the no nonsense "Thanx for your help and now I will get back to work" kind of approach.
Again, sorry if this hits you the wrong way, it certainly wasn't my intention.
You can try if you want but the professor is not going to like it. This is a link that my physics professor put on his site last semester. They want to see you working harder during the semester not begging for a higher grade at the end.
http://gtalumni.org/news/ttopics/win96/w...
The letter sounds good, but I would advise you on two facets. One, if you can go in person, that is best. Face-to-face is the best way to convey your sincerity. Second, if you can, write an actual letter and mail it or deliver it to the professor. An email is the most impersonal form of communication (between face-to-face, phone, postal mail, email). You might be better off to call versus an email, but if you have to send an email, I think your statement looks very professional and also very well-thought-out. Good luck! P.S. - Delete the part of "relying solely on student loans." That will be inferred by quitting a job and that really doesn't pertain to the professor's decision.
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