Professional Writing

What makes a professional ? Does your address set a professional tone? Do you have a set signature with your contact information or title? Do you use a standard font and color? Do you know how to attach a file, rather than embed it in the text box?

What makes a professional ? Look at the following examples to determine the strengths and weaknesses of each one.

Example #1 Subject Line: 68?????!!!!!!????? “Helo this is Lisa Smith why did u give me a 68 for my sem grade ????? I took my time on my exam and I wore a shirt that had th word anarchy on it to u said that I would get 10 extra credit points”

Example #2 “Hi Ms. Wolfe, I would just like to share my thoughts and tell you that I found it a bit unfair when you allowed other students to finish bubbling their answers and would get 5 points taken off, but you didn't allow that for us for the APMC #4 which is partially why my grade in your class is super gross. I was hoping if you could allow what you let students do for APMC #5 for APMC #4. Thank You,”

Example #3 “Hi Mrs , This is Student’s Name from your 6th period class. I just checked my grades on home access and I noticed that I am not doing so well. Over the past few weeks I have not made as much of an effort as I usually do in your class, and I feel really bad. Because of this downfall in my efforts to do well in your class and others, I have dropped in class rank and GPA and am no longer where I strive to be in terms of both. As of now, however, I am determined to improve my grades and was wondering if I can stay after school next Wednesday and Thursday to get help with my synthesis essay and AP multiple choice skills. I really want to know what I have done wrong so I can fix it next six weeks. Thank you so much for taking the time to read this, and I completely understand if you cannot accommodate because of your schedule.

Example #4 Dear Mr. Howard, I am Joshua Adams. I attend school at Round Rock High School, and I am 17 years old. I am researching career interest, and I am interested in the details of your profession. Wildlife and the outdoors fascinate me, and I am exploring the possibility of pursuing a career in this field such as a game warden. I want to gather additional information on this career choice to see if this is the right choice for me. If I may I would like to ask a few questions for my research, 1. What steps do I need to take in order to get into such a profession? 2.. What are a list of some recommended schools that specialize in such professions? 3. How long does it take to usually reach a game warden position? 4. What main obstacles and challenges would I expect to face in my journey to become a Game Warden? Thank you for taking the time to read my , and I would appreciate your input on my research. Sincerely, Joshua Adams

Example #5 Dear Pflow Rider, My name is Marco Estrada. I am seventeen and a junior at Round Rock High School. As this school year draws to a close, I will find much more time on my hands due to summer break and would like new experiences to fill it, such as being a rider for your team. As I visit all the skateparks currently present around the Round Rock-Austin area, I am close friends with some of your brand's current riders such as Antonio, Okera,and Kharied. They are very proud to ride for and represent this brand. They are part of a group of people who are consistently pushing each other to do their best in every aspect of their daily lives and very dedicated to their skating. I would enjoy nothing more than being a part of this brand and team. Is there any way to become a team rider? I have access to a camera if you require footage. I do well in school and stay out of trouble, so I would not be a burden. I have a car so I can drive to skate spots and will be getting a full camera set-up soon so I could also record and edit team footage. Please let me know if there is any way I could possibly ride for Pflow Rider. Sincerely, Marco Estrada.

Example #6 Dear PFC Zach Young, My name is Mitchell Stewart and I am currently a junior at Round Rock High School in Round Rock, Texas. I am writing to express my interest in joining the Marine Corps. I have been interested in joining a branch of the military for several years. My stepfather is former Army and has encouraged my desire to serve my country. I have researched my options and feel that the Marine Corps is the right choice for my future. To prepare for the recruitment process, I have a few questions. First I would like to know the requirements for enlistment. Second, I would like to know the health requirements and skills tests that I will be required to complete for enlistment. I am healthy and maintain a strict exercise routine. Finally, I would like to learn more about how I can combine by desire to serve my country and my need to continue my education. I am interested in speaking with a recruiter in person and would like to make an appointment as soon as I am eligible. I believe that being proactive and prepared for the enlistment requirements will give me an advantage and better prepare me for boot camp. Thank you for your time and I hope to hear from you soon. Sincerely, Mitchell Stewart

Reminders Clear subject line Introduction including purpose of Introduce yourself Keep your to the point Thank the person for their time Sign your

Requirements Personal address for recipient Subject line filled Teacher blind copied Greeting and Salutation Electronic signature with contact information Practice Attachment Introduction Questions and purpose of Appropriate closing and acknowledgment or reader’s time and respectful request for response SAVE DRAFT, PRINT, TURN IN BY END OF NEXT CLASS

So who might you need to in the near future?  Military recruiter  Volunteer Location  Employer  College professor  Professional in the field you’re interested in pursuing  Personal inquiry  Teacher  Scholarship  Summer Employment  Summer Activities  ???