Several days ago I received an email at my school address from a Gmail address I didn't recognize, attached to a name I didn't recognize. The subject line read "calculator", and the message consisted of the single sentence, "What kind of calculator do I need?". I checked, and this name did not appear on any of my class rosters.
Here is my response to the email.
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Dear ---------,
I would like to answer your question, but I'm afraid your message is very mysterious. The following information would be helpful.
1. Who are you? Are you a student at Lenoir-Rhyne?
2. Are you taking a class with me this coming semester? If so, which class?
3. Are you asking about what calculator you need for a particular class, for a particular exam, for a particular secret mission, for a certain profession, etc.?
(Also, for extra credit, your message could have begun with "Dear Professor," or "Hello, Professor".)
If you can provide a little more context, I will be happy to help.
Have a nice night,
TG
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I have not heard back from this person.
On the plus side, at least the single sentence was capitalized and punctuated correctly!
