<p>Is it ok to email a professor to ask for a rec. for grad school? Is this looked down upon? In my opinion, it's a lot easier than going to office hours-- I work during the day and am usually unable to make it. </p>
<p>Yes, as long as there is a pre-existing relationship w/ the professor, an email is fine. If the prof does not know you well (e.g., you've only taken large lecture courses from him/her), then in-person would be important in order for the prof to remember who you are.</p>