Got a response from a professor: Let's Analyze!

[JackieW]

So I sent a very brief introductory email to a professor (Basically a hi, my area of study, and I mentioned a paper of hers I had read), and I got this response:

Jacqueline,

Thanks for your message and for your interest in Vanderbilt and in my work. I

[KieBelle]

Hmm, I would consider that neutral-good. The prof doesn't say anything about your research proposal- did you just give him/her your general area of interest (I'm assuming Victorianists) or were you more specific?

[JackieW]

I just gave a general idea--- I didn't want to get too specific in the first email. (Which may or may not be a good idea, but I think it's one that works best for me!) And, yes, I am just sitting on TGC.

[ridgey]

"Not knowing the Department's admission priorities" suggests to me that she is not on the admission committee and that she can't really lobby for any particular student. That might explain why it sounds like she wanted to encourage your interest without entering into an ongoing conversation. I don't know that you need to follow up, but a "thank you" never goes astray.

PS You only edited out the university's name at the second instance!

[purplepepper]

I agree with ridgey on this one...the prof sounds like she doesn't make major decisions in the admissions process. But the good news, is that if you have a strong application, it will resonate with anyone. I don't think you need to contact the head unless your research interests or similar. Just send a thanks for the reply reply. good luck with it all!

[socialcomm]

It's great that the prof gave you the name of someone else to speak with. I'd definitely follow up with the director and thank the original prof for their help.