Is It Likely for U.S. Professors to Respond to Research Assistantship Requests from Prospective Master’s Degree Students?
The likelihood of receiving a response from professors at U.S. universities regarding research assistantship (RA) requests from prospective master’s degree students can vary based on several key factors. Understanding these factors can help aspirant students increase their chances of finding suitable opportunities.
Field of Study
STEM Fields vs. Humanities and Social Sciences: STEM fields, particularly those involving experimental, computational, and field research, often have more funding and opportunities for research assistantships than humanities or social sciences. Professors in these fields are more likely to have funded projects that require the assistance of research assistants. Conversely, in fields like literature, philosophy, or history, research assistantships may be less common due to the nature of the work, which often involves archival research or literary analysis.
Professor's Availability and Research Projects
Active Research Projects: Professors who are currently conducting active research projects are more likely to be receptive to research assistantship requests. They may be seeking additional help with their projects and are more likely to consider taking on an assistant. However, those who are not currently looking for assistants or are overwhelmed with other responsibilities, such as teaching large classes or administrative tasks, may not respond to requests.
Quality of the Request
Well-Crafted Email: When reaching out to a professor, it is crucial to send a well-crafted and personalized email. Clearly outline your qualifications, research interests, and how they align with the professor’s work. Demonstrating a genuine interest in the professor's research can make a significant difference.
Alignment with Research: Highlight how your skills and research interests can contribute to the professor's ongoing projects. This can help the professor see the value in having you as an assistant.
The Timing of the Request
Appropriate Timing: The timing of your request can impact the professor's response. Reaching out before application deadlines or at the beginning of the academic year, when professors are planning their research, can be more effective.
Institutional Policies
Formal Application Processes: Some universities have formal application processes for research assistantships, which may limit direct communication with professors. In these cases, professors may be less likely to respond to unsolicited requests. Ensure you follow any formal application procedures if required.
Personal Connections: If you have existing connections with the professor (through previous coursework or at research conferences), you may be more likely to receive a response. Recommendations from esteemed colleagues can also strengthen your request.
Personal Experiences of a Professor in Finance/Economics
From the perspective of a professor in finance/economics, the response rate is generally low. For instance, teaching a cohort of about 60 master’s students annually, I typically receive 5-10 requests for unpaid RA positions. On average, I may take on one RA per year, and this RA is usually a "light-touch" position, more about guiding the student's independent research than assisting with my research. The successful candidate is often one of the top 2-3 students in my first-semester course.
For new students, I generally advise them to check back later in the semester unless they are already known to me or come with a strong recommendation from an esteemed colleague.
Prospect of PhD Students: For PhD students, the outlook is brighter as they are more of a long-term investment. However, this does not mean that it is guaranteed. Persistence and clear communication are key.
Final Advice
Persistence and Respect: While not every request will receive a response, many professors appreciate outreach from motivated students. It is advisable to be persistent but respectful. Follow-up emails can sometimes lead to a response, especially if the initial email was well-received.
No Fear of Rejection: Don't get discouraged if you are declined. It is still worth asking and no professor with whom you would like to work will get angry at you for asking.