E-mailing a professor about possible research/teaching assistantships?

[JessePinkman]

Hi. I have been admitted to two masters programs for Fall 2014, but I've deferred them to Fall 2015. I didn't get any funding last time. I'm planning on e-mailing one or two professors whose research areas interest me and ask for a possible RA. I've not had any research experience before so I know it's hard. But, can i just mention to them that I have some time on my hands till Fall 15 and though I've not had any prior experience, I can study some things about their research area which could possibly make me ready  for a RA or a TA? Do professors encourage such kind of e-mails? Thank you.

[TakeruK]

You can always ask. If they say no, then it doesn't hurt you.

[bsharpe269]

It might be more beneficial to email the student coordinator to see if anyone is looking for an RA, rather than contacting individual professors.