Say It Straight

Five scripts for the messages students avoid sending — copy the structure, swap in your own details.

Script 1

Asking a professor for an extension

Rule: ask before the deadline, state a reason briefly without over-explaining, and propose a new date yourself rather than asking them to name one.

Subject: Extension request — [Assignment name]

Dear Professor [Name],

I'm writing about the [assignment name] due [date]. I've run into [brief, honest reason — illness, family emergency, overlapping deadlines] and won't be able to submit my best work by the deadline.

Could I request an extension to [specific new date, 2–3 days out]? I understand if this isn't possible, and I'm happy to discuss any adjustment you think is fair.

Thank you for considering this.
[Your name, roll number]

Script 2

Pushing back on a group member who isn't contributing

Rule: describe the specific behavior and its effect, not their character — "you missed two calls" lands better than "you don't care."

Hey [Name] — quick one. We've missed you on the last two planning calls, and the [section] you took on is still open with the deadline coming up fast.

Is everything okay on your end? If you're stretched thin, tell us now so we can redistribute the work rather than finding out at the last minute. If you can still take it on, could you share a draft by [date] so we have time to review it together?

Script 3

Negotiating a stipend or internship offer

Rule: thank them first, name a number (research the typical range beforehand), and always leave room for them to respond — don't issue an ultimatum.

Thank you so much for the offer — I'm genuinely excited about the role.

Before I confirm, I wanted to check if there's flexibility on the stipend. Based on what's typical for similar roles, I was hoping for something closer to [figure]. I understand there may be constraints on your end, and I'm happy to discuss what's possible.

Either way, I'm keen to move forward and would love to finalize this soon.

Script 4

Declining something you can't take on

Rule: decline the request, not the relationship — thank them, say no clearly, offer an alternative only if you actually have one.

Thanks for thinking of me for this. I've got to be honest — I don't have the bandwidth to do it justice right now, so I'll have to pass. I'd love to be considered again next time.

Script 5

Asking for feedback after a rejection

Rule: keep it short — a busy recruiter is far more likely to reply to three lines than ten.

Thank you for letting me know, and for the opportunity to interview. If you have a moment, I'd really appreciate any feedback on where I could improve for next time.