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[arandov]

Hello everyone,

I am applying to American universities for grad school in a history-related field. I am not an American. Upon approaching a professor for the first time about my idea of study, hu responded warmly about my intended project, indicating that hu would like to work with me and hopes I will apply. I thanked hu for the reply, and hu responded with "Hi [first name], best of luck!" and signed with hu's first name. Following the advice of a friend, I didn't reply, since- in my friend's opinion- hu has got the message, and any other mail I'll send hu now will only interrupt.

Now, after I have applied, what should I do? My friend, who is considerably more knowledgeable about American academy, tells me I should do nothing. The professor remembers me, and there is no need to approach hu again. I am thinking that reminding hu of my existence would be a good thing, because the fact is that looking at my quantitative achievements (GPA, GRE) will never get me in. They're OK, but not great- and this is a very competitive program we're talking about. So it is critical for me to make the professor remember me vividly and fight for me if I want a chance. My friend still says- it's just not done, don't approach him again. As, like I've pointed out, I am not an American, I am really not sure if she is right on this.

What do you think? Should I approach the professor again, or would that seem like a breach of decorum?     

[oseph]

Your friend is right.

[new_bus_prof]

Your friend is right. If the professor is interested he'll pull your name from the batch of applicants.

When I'm on the applicant committee, I often go back through emails from potential applicants to see who's actually applied and pull them for consideration. My colleagues do the same.

[arandov]

Ok, thank you both.

[oseph]

You're welcome.  Good luck.