Contacting DGS

[Jbarks]

This question may seem silly, but I appreciate everyone's input. I need to contact the DGS at several of the programs to which I'm applying to ask an LOR question. Should I provide a brief line of introduction? For example, "I'm a recent graduate of blank MA program with an interest in medieval literature and cultural studies..." Or should I just go straight into my question? For example, "I plan to apply to the PhD program in English for Fall 2012. I have begun to finalize the different components of my application, and I have a few quick questions about the process."

Thanks for your advice!

[harpyemma]

The second one. Get straight to the point. Unless an introduction would help the DGS answer your question, they don't need to read it--nobody likes to receive emails full of unnecessary information.

[darjeelingtea16]

I agree with harpyemma. I would go with the second one unless you need that introduction. For example, I've been contacting DGS's from various universities' Comp Lit and English programs and have had to provide that introduction because I'm trying to figure out which type of department my work would fit better in (in my case, it's a little difficult to determine without contacting someone in the department). Anyway, I'd go with the I plan to apply, I'm working on app materials, and I have a few questions concerning x, y, and z format.

[ktel]

I think they would appreciate the more direct question. Whenever I was e-mailing people about administrative things, I would just jump into "I am a future applicant, here is my question"

[runonsentence]

If you have a question about LoRs (or any other application packet type question), you should first direct your question to the grad secretary, not the DGS.

If s/he doesn't know the answer or feels unsure about the answer, then s/he will direct you to the DGS.

Last, I'd do this over the phone instead of as an email. It's a good time of year to call because it's not the first week of classes and it's not right up against application deadlines. Every secretary I've spoken with over the phone was super nice and helpful. And it'll save you time over fretting about the right tone or right way to open up the correspondence.

[Jbarks]

Thanks for your responses. I was leaning toward the more direct approach anyway.