As a new student on campus, are you feeling unsure or even intimidated about initiating contact with professors? Maybe you’re nervous about seeking a job in a research lab or searching for an advisor who will play a crucial role in your academic and professional journey. To support you, we have collected tips from current professors and former students at the University of Iowa, designed to help you navigate these types of situations.
1. Assemble a mentoring team
"Students need to make sure they are talking to everybody during their first year or two and find a faculty member that they're comfortable working with. They should strive to have a mentoring team, not just a single advisor. And if you're struggling -- academically, emotionally, whatever -- get help! There are people all around campus -- your department, your college, the Graduate College, ISSS (if you're an international student) -- who are invested in your success and happy to help.”
Nick Street, Tippie Children professor in business analytics and associate dean for research and PhD programs
2. Take advantage of office hours
“I made it a priority to attend office hours for most of my courses to get to know my professors and teaching assistants. By doing so, I learned about their research and talked about course-related questions. I met with my research mentors during lab meetings and 1:1 check-ins. My biggest advice for fostering good professional relationships is to know what you want out of it and to not be afraid of sending lots of emails!”
Bhavya Vats, BSE in biomedical engineering ’23
3. Network with both professors and students
“Many students might feel nervous about approaching professors outside the classroom. Remind yourself that by working with a professor, you will be a valuable addition to their research program. Also, it’s important to talk to other students, attend their presentations, and gain insight into their research topics and advisors.”
Aixin Tan, director of graduate studies and associate professor in statistics and actuarial science
4. Be persistent and don’t forget to say thank you
“I overcame my fear of rejection and proactively reached out to professors and potential mentors whose research interests and career trajectories aligned with mine. I approached them professionally, stating my intentions and demonstrating genuine enthusiasm for their work. If I did not receive a response at first approach, I persisted with follow-up emails. When the professors could not grant my request, I made it a habit to thank them for at least getting back to me, knowing fully well that professors and mentors are incredibly busy individuals.”
Azeez Alade, PhD in epidemiology ’23
International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement. IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.