Pointers for Connecting with a Potential Advisor

I was going through the University of Manitoba's website and I came across a set of application instructions for a paticular department. What caught my attention was the instruction/advice on how to contact a potential supervisor. I consider these points very apt, interesting, some almost hilarious but they should be effective in the end.

Check out the points below:

1. DO NOT mass mail professors, if you are considered harassing, your emails will be blocked
2. send these selected professors your Statement of Intent, CV, and possibly your transcripts  
   
   
1. STATEMENT OF RESEARCH INTENT
1. This is a VERY IMPORTANT document. As may be your only chance have to tell the professor about your research and academic background
2. Be brief!  A Statement of Research Intent should be limited to 1 to 2 pages, double-spaced or 1.5 spaced.
3. Write at a Professional Level
   
   
1. DON'T write ...
   1. it's always been you dream to come to Canada
   2. you're doing this to improve the situation in the world
   3. you're doing this to improve international situations
   4. anything which may not pertain to your proposed research or your course of study while in the ECE graduate program -- this is your chance to present your academic background, previous research, and planned research
2. WRITE ...
1. Why your background qualifies you to do research with this specific professor -- you can list your interest in the field, some work you've done in the area, etc.
2. Research you've done in your B.Sc., M.Sc., or through employment
3. About events, conferences, or journals in which you've participated and presented your work/research
4. List, on a separate page if necessary, your publications
3. CV
1. List your publications, research and research experience, teaching experience, awards, patents, practical or work experience, etc.
2. Include accomplishments

I found these pointers useful and I hope you do too. Best wishes with your new applications this summer.