So, you are interested to become a graduate student in my lab? Great, I’m always looking for outstanding students!
Tips for prospective graduate students
In no good order.
- DO check the Openings. If there is a funded opening that you have the qualifications for, follow the application instructions and apply. If there are no funded openings listed, that means there are none. Do not send me an e-mail to ask for funding in that case. That shows you didn’t do your homework.
- DO apply for our MS or PhD program first, whether you are applying for a funded or unfunded position. I do not hire students who are not admitted to our graduate program AND are not physically present in the US.
- DO read this before you apply for a PhD program: https://medium.economist.com/why-doing-a-phd-is-often-a-waste-of-time-349206f9addb
- DON’T expect funding in the first few terms. During your probation, you will first need to demonstrate that you can do well in classes and that you can contribute to our research.
- DON’T send a boilerplate email, à la “Dear Professor, I’m interested in your research area”. That shows a total lack of professionalism, shows you didn’t do your homework, and generally is simply a red flag. Don’t be surprised if you don’t get a reply.
- DO send a personal e-mail that demonstrates that you did your homework and that you care.
- DO use a proper salutation and spell my name correctly: “Dear Professor Teuscher,” not “Hi,” or “Dear Professor.”
- DO pay attention to spelling, grammar, and formatting in your e-mail.
- DO your homework and show that you are really interested. Your e-mail should clearly demonstrate that you have spent enough time exploring our research area. Tell me what you are bringing to the table and how you will contribute to our research mission. It’s your job to make a case that you are the perfect team member for what we do. Simply saying that you are interested in our research or that you share common interests won’t get you far. I’m interested in students who can contribute.
- DON’T apply if your background and skillset does not align with our research area. If you earned a degree in another area, tell me what you have done and what you are willing to do to move into our research area. Again, simply being interested in our research will not open doors.
- DON’T apply if do not meet the requirements to be admitted to the ECE graduate program.
- DON’T send the same e-mail to several faculty in the same department.
- DON’T send reminders, à la “I know you are extremely busy, but I would appreciate if you could take the time to review my materials.” It’s rather rude, unprofessional, and shows that you are desperate. If I’m interested, I will get back to you.
- DO briefly describe your industrial and academic experience.
- DO include a link to your Github that shows me your cool projects, a link to your LinkedIn profile, and a link to your professional website. If you have a professional social networking account, include it as well.
- DO include a link to your top publication if you have published something.
- DO be concise.
- DO attach a short CV.
Materials for prospective graduate students
- Our publications: Publications
- Our research: Research