<p>I am trying to get a letter of recommendation from my former professor, and the current professor. I know this is bad planning on my part, as I have waited too long into the semester... I emailed my former professor about a month ago asking for an override into her class - she said she would get back to me, but has not responded. Since then, I've stopped by her office 3 or 4 times, during her office hours, but she was not there. I really need to get this letter of recommendation, and I am planning on stopping by again today, but if she's not there, my last chance is this upcoming Monday as classes are over. Would it be rude to ask her for a letter of recommendation over email, since she hasn't responded to my override, or am I making this too complicated?</p>
<p>It is not trivial to get a professor to do work for you this time of year. They are overwhelmed. As a grad student I’ve struggled with this getting a thesis approved and papers submitted.</p>
<p>First, this professor completely forgot about your override. Profs get 50-60 emails a day. Minor issues just fall thru the cracks. Do not take it personally. She will not remember anything about your override. Do not remind her.</p>
<p>Write a very professional e-mail tonight. Remind the professor when you’ve been in her class. Attach something like a resume highlighting what you what the professor to write about in the letter of recommendation. Clearly label the e-mail subject “Requesting letter of recommendation from (your name)”. The professor may say “no” if she doesn’t really know who you are, but reminding her and giving her page on your background might help.</p>
<p>Stop by her office Monday if she does no respond. By very nice. The letter will take 2-3 weeks to write at least. You might also try asking a secretary if they understand her schedule. Also, you can look up when she teaches class or is giving a final. Try to catch her in the hallway. </p>
<p>Getting hold of profs is a skill I’ve had to learn here as a grad student. I work with secretaries, wait in hallways, camp outside of professors offices, etc.</p>