First POI email in social science - what to ask?

[PetitJacques]

I am currently applying to a PhD program in the US and working on emailing POIs. I had a good conversation with the director of the program, who gave me some names of professors he thought I should contact. I am working on that now but not quite sure what to say.

 

In this program, you don't need a research proposal to apply (you don't even start working on that until after qualifying exams about 1 1/2 years in) and you aren't matched with a supervisor until you have started the program.

 

So, it seems like questions about whether or not they are accepting grad students don't make sense - what do I ask, then? I don't want to just write to tell them about what I'm interested in and that I think we have similar interests - that seems a waste of their time and somewhat pointless. But I worry that just asking about their current interests seems too vague. Should I ask to speak with them on the phone? (My current location doesn't permit face-to-face visits). Is it appropriate to ask if they see the program as a good fit?

 

I am probably way over-thinking this but would really appreciate some advice!

[Loric]

"Howdy!

 

How ya doin? Iz you good? I wants to know!

 

But seriously, I was interested in applying for your program in XYZ as a PhD candidate and John McJohn said you might be a good person to approach for questions I have about the program. If you have the time, do you mind if I pick your brain a bit?

 

I saw that you did BLAH BLAH and I'm interested in BLAH-BLAH adjacent topic of BLEH-BLEH. Do you suppose that would be in line with the research direction of your program in the future?

 

Also, is there a good place to get chicken and waffles at 3am anywhere near the campus?

 

Sincerely,

Moi."

 

There, done. Send it.

Edited November 22, 2013 by Loric

[PetitJacques]

Thank you for assisting both with my email and my overthinking!!

[ProfMoriarty]

My emails basically consisted of introducing myself, telling them I will be applying at X program, what I'm currently doing (I.e. Finishing my undergrad writing a thesis on subject Y), and am outline of my interests. Then I explained that since my research interests overlap with theirs, I would be interested in working with them should I get accepted into the program. I asked if they are taking advisees and sometimes attached a copy of my CV.

[juilletmercredi]

^I think the above, omitting the part about advisees (given that you don't get one until after you arrive) is good.  Keep it brief.