ObserverAnalyst

It's all about finding someone worth finding time for

I took four years off before starting my MA in Anthropology. I spent time living in two different countries, working a couple different jobs, and ultimately starting my own business. The time I spent abroad has really shaped my research question and I'm one of the few in my cohort not being discouraged from extended field work (I'm planning on 4 months compared to 3-6 weeks for others) because I have already made connections with potential interlocutors and have experience in my field site. I find that professors take me much more seriously now. They know I'm not studying because I had no idea what to do after my undergrad, but that I really want to be there. Also, there is a vast difference between the contributions people with 'life experience' make and those perpetual students make in class. Even my attitude towards studying is completely different than undergrad and different from others in my cohort. I'm a huge proponent of taking some time off!

Dear Professor X, 
Please find attached my CV and cover letter, submitted as part of my application for Y (or: as per your request, or whatever). 
Please let me know if there is any additional information that I can provide in support of my application or if you have any questions.
All my best,
ObserverAnalyst
 
--
Which is to say, yes, you don't just send an email with attachments and no explanation for who you are and what they are for. If you are so inclined (I usually am), you can also ask for confirmation that the prof received the materials and/or ask when you might expect to hear from him/her, so you know the email arrived safely at its destination and have some timeline to look forward to.