Thank you etiquette

[Celyn]

I finished my course last year but won't be having a graduation until next year. My course was cut short by the pandemic where the last 2-3 weeks were done online because we were in lockdown.

Anyway, I did really well and am hoping to publish my research.

I had planned on sending a thank you card to my dissertation supervisor as I had more contact with her and it's down to her that I'm hoping to publish in the first place. But I did have another lecturer before my supervisor and now I'm wondering whether to get her a card as well? They do interact as they are colleagues in the same department, though I don't think they are really close or anything. But I just thought it might seem weird or unfair if I get one a card and not the other? But it also seems weird since I finished my course a year ago so not even sure my other lecturer would remember me much

I do plan on attending graduation next year but I don't really feel comfortable giving cards in person so I would probably just pop the card(s) in the post instead. If I do get published, it would be in the next few months so that's why I would prefer to send a thank you card in the near future.

I'd be grateful for any advice!

[Rivière]

I don't see why not. You're grateful for all their help and support and a thank you card is a great way of showing it. Not only that, even if you think they don't remember you, you could always write a bit of blurb in there that kind of lightens the mood - 'You probably don't remember me but I just want to say thank you for....'.

Alternatively, you could contact them beforehand and see how things are to make it a little less awkward in wondering whether or not they remember you.

Either way, I don't see why sending both of them is a bad idea.

If this is something you want to do, then go for it! It sounds like these two individuals really helped you and got you to where you want/need to be. Perhaps, if you're concerned they won't remember you or seem to care as much, you could add some antidotes in your letter to them. Of course, you have different experiences with these two people, so definitely make it relatable to them. :P

I think they would appreciate your writing to them even more if you made it personal with the antidotes, and even add a little humor that you know they'd get. People always love getting letters from those they've mentored, so they'll be happy.

[Starseeker]

Holly, I think such a gesture would be welcome, and even if your previous lecturer doesn't remember you now, they will surely remember you after the thank you card

[Dawn.]

I would definitely go for it as well!

That's such a beautiful thought.