Professors
know their field, have life experiences, and usually (should) enjoy teaching. You will find that many are approachable and accessible, though others can be more of a challenge. Fortunately, most professors are usually around before and after courses to talk. In addition, each has its own style of communicating. So, adapt to each one and make it easy for them.
They will also have office hours worked into their schedules each term, so that students are able to ask questions and meet with them.
Be sure to show up to class ready and respectful. It’s great that a friend wants to see you later during the afternoon, but text them letting them know that you’re about to walk into class. If you show up late, come in quietly and take a seat by the door.
Getting acquainted with professors is very important, especially for those who are minorities, athletes, and those with disabilities. Professors have a responsibility to teach well, to follow protocol, and to provide appropriate support. If you need assistance, talk with them early on about it. Don’t wait until the end of the course to ask for help.
Some undergraduate courses will have teacher assistants to help the professors with their workload (we’ll cover them next).
Ways to improve your relationship with professors include:
They will also have office hours worked into their schedules each term, so that students are able to ask questions and meet with them.
Be sure to show up to class ready and respectful. It’s great that a friend wants to see you later during the afternoon, but text them letting them know that you’re about to walk into class. If you show up late, come in quietly and take a seat by the door.
Getting acquainted with professors is very important, especially for those who are minorities, athletes, and those with disabilities. Professors have a responsibility to teach well, to follow protocol, and to provide appropriate support. If you need assistance, talk with them early on about it. Don’t wait until the end of the course to ask for help.
Some undergraduate courses will have teacher assistants to help the professors with their workload (we’ll cover them next).
Ways to improve your relationship with professors include:
- Don’t wait until the end of the term to learn their name—seriously.
- Be genuinely interested—professors can often tell real from fake interest.
- Do not complain unnecessarily.
- Show up ready for class.
- Have meaningful questions.
- Don’t distract them, yourself, or your peers.
- Take some time to do extra research on a topic that interests you in the subject and share it.