How to Seek Expert Guidance When Writing Your Thesis

Why Seek Expert Help?

When you are completing your thesis, for either a Master’s degree program or an Honor’s distinction in undergraduate, you will need a great deal of advice and mentorship from people with experience and expertise in your field of interest. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to secure such one-on-one help from a professor or graduate student at your university, as instructors and professors are typically very busy and have to assist many students over the course of their semester.

Despite these facts, it is absolutely essential that you seek out guidance when you are in the process of writing your thesis. A good mentor will help guide you through the process both administratively and methologically. They will advocate on your behalf if your committee has any questions or problems with your work. And finally, they will provide key information and logical insights that will ensure your thesis project is the absolute best it can be. Here is how to seek help.

Locate an Expert on Your Topic

You must select a mentor who knows a lot about the area you are interested. Visit your school’s department website and look at the faculty profiles. Read the faculty bios and locate someone who is interested in what you would like to study. If the bios make it unclear, look at their academic references (such as their curriculum vita, which should be on the same site). Look for someone who has published articles with titles that seem relevant. Ask professors and grad students you have taken classes with for their advice, and ask your academic advisor or major advisor.

Contact the Relevant People and Ask for Help

Once you have an idea of who is equipped to help you, write a short, professional email explaining who you are and what your research interests are. Ask if you can meet with the professor to discuss research opportunities. Then, in person, ask for their guidance on your thesis. If possible, approach a professor after you have taken classes with him or her.

Pay Back Their Kindness

If a professor is willing to help you with your thesis, you should communicate your gratitude. Never express frustration with your advisor or thesis committee, even if they take longer to get back to you than you would like. If possible, you should offer to assist your advisor or mentor with their research or other work, offer to help proctor or grade exams, or otherwise do something to repay them for their help. Always comport yourself professionally and with gratitude.

 
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