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I am studying mathematics in a UK institution and it is not as common (or not common at all) for undergrads to do reading courses with professors as it is in the US. I would like to ask what would be a "good" way (sorry for the lack of adjectives to describe this) to approach professors regarding this matter? I have in mind what the topic will be and the main book I would be reading which matches one professor's field of interest.

How can I make an introduction that is not considered as "awkward" and when would be a good time for me to approach him if I plan to do my reading course starting from, say the coming October.

Besides, how would I know whether he would be willing to guide me as most professors seem to be very busy and one hour per week/two weeks is non trivial for them.

Moreover, what if he's going to be in sabbatical (although I won't know until I ask)?

Thanks in advance.

PS: A reading course is basically independent study, asking a professor to guide you through a topic/book etc, which is not graded nor having any credit.

anonymous
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    The sabbatical case is easy: you ask, and he says "sorry, I can't, I'll be on sabbatical." – Nate Eldredge Mar 19 '17 at 15:44
  • Is this reading course a scheduled course regulated by the university, or is this an independent venture of your own making? Either way, your best approach is almost certainly to email first. Your answer to this question only affects the wording of the email. – Will R Apr 18 '17 at 23:49

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I think the best approach would be to find out when the professor will be in his office and approach him and ask (or wait outside his class until class ends). I think he would appreciate having someone be interested in his work and maybe agree - after all, a university is meant for knowledge sharing right?

You're right, if he is on sabbatical then there's nothing you can do. You will probably have to show that you are really interested and aren't there to waste his time.

Michael
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    In my opinion, ambushing a lecturer as they leave a lecture isn't such a good idea. Drop them an email first to briefly explain what you want, and if they're on board, you can meet in person in their office. – astronat supports the strike Mar 19 '17 at 18:58
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    I recommend broaching this in person. You could ask for an appointment, either via email or, as Michael said, right after class. If you talk to him or her after class, don't say what you want the appointment for. If you're asked, you could say you would like to ask for some information and advice. Be prepared to follow up via email to find a mutually agreeable time. But if s/he has posted office hours, try that, but offer to come in at a different time (e.g. "I'd like to ask your advice about something, but if this isn't a convenient time, we could make an appt. for another day"). – aparente001 Mar 20 '17 at 05:34
  • P.S. Nothing to be gained by waiting a month or three.... Go for it! – aparente001 Mar 20 '17 at 05:35
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    It always mystifies me when people say they want an appointment, or want to talk, but don't say what about. This just adds a layer of "stuff"... – paul garrett Jun 17 '17 at 19:03