I’m researching professors for a graduate program in mathematics

Hey Prospective, Current, or Alumni Aztecs!

I’m a Cyber Defense & Analysis / Applied Math student at City College (transferring/applying to grad programs in math), and I’m starting to look into professors whose research is in line with what I want to study. Would appreciate some advice from people who have done this before.

How do you structure a first email so it doesn’t get ignored? How much detail should I include about my background/interests? Any recommendations on professors in the math department?

Would appreciate any advice, personal experiences, or general wisdom. Thanks!