Dear Dr.

Barger -

My name is Meredith Arterburn and I am an eleventh grade student enrolled in the Gifted and
Talented Program at Glenelg High School in Howard County, Maryland. In this program, each
student gets the opportunity to research a topic of his/her choice. I will be undertaking an
academic-year-long, research-based study of sleep in athletes. Specifically, I would like to
determine how a lack of sleep affects athletics and how different types of physical activities
affect sleep. My goal this year is to generate an extensive source list that will ultimately help me
argue a thesis related to this topic. I will also undertake a research project in which I will
generate primary data. To date, I have used my school’s electronic databases as well as other
print and online sources to locate information on my topic.

As a high school student, connecting with a professional in my field of interest is an extremely

valuable part of conducting my research. I am hoping you might be willing to share any
resources or suggestions that could help me in investigating my topic.

I am currently in the early stages of my research, learning the basics of sleep and its effects on
the daily lives of athletes. Resources might include articles from a research or trade journal, an
opportunity to talk by phone for a brief interview, suggestions of other professionals with
expertise in my topic, or other items relevant to the topic. I would love to have a first-hand
account from an expert in a sleep study field to further my knowledge on the specifics of sleep
and how it can regenerate athletes.

Thank you so much for your consideration of my request. Any information can be sent back to
this email. I hope to hear from you at your earliest convenience.

Sincerely,
Meredith Arterburn
Glenelg High School