Expert: Amanda Gamble - 6/12/2011

Question
Hi

I want to progress my career in agricultural research. As I dont have any experience in the field I want to start as a volunteer in one of the professor's lab as an research assistant so that I can learn and become familiar with the techniques that will make me good enough to enter the field.
The problem is that I don't know how to ask the professor properly without sounding desparate.
How can I ask the professor in proper way that I would like to work or volunteer in his laboratory?
What should I be telling him if he asks me why do you want to work in my laboratory. Can I tell him, I am interested in the field of work what he is doing.
And what if he asks why should I take you as a volunteer?
Please help me finding answers to these questions I am literally confused.

Thanks

Amar

Answer
Dear Amar,
 Please forgive my tardy reply. Write a letter to the professor and tell him what interests you about the field of study and are unsure of how to get started down the career path that you wish
to take. Let him know that you are available to help in any way that would be useful to him as
well as allow you to learn laboratory techniques. If he cannot use you,ask that he keep you in
mind for any opportunities,no matter how humble,that he may hear about. Thank him,include your
contact information and see what happens.

  The worst he can do is say 'no thank you'. Keep trying if you do not get the answer you want
the first time. Keep working toward your goal.

Best regards,
 Amanda Gamble