Student Email Etiquette Guide

Your Official College Email Account

• Every admitted Cerro Coso student receives a college-assigned email address ending in @email.cerrocoso.edu. This is the exclusive address used by the college and instructors to contact you, from financial aid updates to class notifications.
• Checking your email regularly is required. Important messages, such as waitlist updates or drop/add notices—are sent only to this inbox.
• Access Steps:
  1. 1. Log in to InsideCC.
     2. Click the main menu icon, left hand corner of the page and click email.
     3. If you’ve forgotten your email address or password, follow the process via KCCD’s lookup/reset system.

Email Format & Style Tips

1. 1. Use a Clear Subject Line
      • Write something like: “PSYC 101 – Question about Assignment #3”
      • Avoid generic subjects like “Hey” or “Question.”
   2. Proper Salutation: Address your recipient formally:
      • “Dear Professor Smith,” or
      • “Hello Ms. Johnson,”
   3. Identify Yourself Quickly
      • Provide necessary context:
        • e.g., “I am [Your Name], student in [Course & Section], meeting [MWF 9 AM]…”
   4. Be Clear, Concise and Polite
      • State your purpose simply and directly.
      • Use respectful language and proofread before sending.
      • Double-check spelling, grammar, and tone.
   5. Use Appropriate Sign-Off
      • Conclude with:
        • “Thank you,” or “Sincerely,”
        • Then your name: [First Last]
        • Optionally include your Student ID or course section.

When to Email vs. When to Use Other Platforms

Use Email for…	Use Canvas / InsideCC / Phone for…
Official college communication (financial aid, waitlists, billing)	Real-time class discussions; assignment submissions; group messages on Canvas
Questions about policies, enrollment or exceptions	Troubleshooting technical/platform issues; urgent or time-sensitive requests
Private or sensitive concerns	Campus Life announcements, peer communication, or course-related chat

 

Tips for Respectful Correspondence

• Only email class instructors or staff directly relevant to your query.
• Allow 24–48 hours on weekdays for a response unless noted otherwise.
• Use professional language and avoid slang or emojis.
• Refrain from using all CAPS or excessive punctuation.

Technical Reminders

• Check your student email at least once a day—this is where all official Cerro Coso messages are sent.
• Contact Tech Support if locked out or unable to log in. Use InsideCC or reach KCCD helpdesk as instructed on official help pages.

Why It Matters

• Using your official email ensures you receive time-sensitive academic and administrative information.
• Clear, professional communication fosters positive relationships with instructors and staff and reflects well on you as a student.
• Miscommunication or failure to check your email may result in missed deadlines, lost opportunities, or incomplete enrollment.

Quick Email Checklist Before Hitting Send

• ✓ Subject line is specific and relevant
• ✓ I’ve identified myself and included class details
• ✓ Message is focused, polite, and proofread
• ✓ I used a formal greeting and sign-off
• ✓ I’ve allowed appropriate time for a reply before re-sending