Make sure your message states that you do want a response. Follow the instructions to send the message. You will need to confirm your desire to send the first message in your own email account before the message is sent. Once a response is received, share it with the class. Students will write a reflection paper.
Teachers can offer choices for a topic or provide a topic for the class.
If you choose the latter, you will need to generate a list of people who would influence that topic. You could have students work in small groups to compose letters.