An email signature is a small piece of writing that does a lot of work. For a master’s student, it tells the reader who you are, where you study, and how to reach you. Keep it short. Name, program, school, and one contact method are enough for most messages.
If you have finished the degree, you can add the abbreviation after your name. ‘Jane Smith, M.A.’ and ‘Jane Smith, M.S.’ are standard forms. Do not add the degree until you have earned it. ‘Master’s candidate’ or ‘M.A. candidate’ works while you are still enrolled. Check capitalization rules for degree names so the line reads correctly.
Match the signature to the message. A job application or a note to a professor calls for the full version. A note to a classmate can be shorter. Skip quotes, slogans, and images in professional mail. They distract from your message. These professional writing tips cover the same idea for resumes.
A link helps when it matters. Add your LinkedIn profile or portfolio when you are networking or applying for roles. Leave it out for routine class mail. Review the writing aids for students page for more help with academic writing.
