Friday, August 28, 2015

Approaching the Professor


You’ve made it through the first week of classes! But have you personally spoken with your instructors? Professors are here to help you understand content they are passionate about! Here are some tips if you are hesitant to introduce yourself:

1.       Visit during their posted office hours or schedule an appointment with them. Their office hours are time devoted to helping students. You don’t have to try to spontaneously start a conversation before or after class.

2.       Prepare to some extent for your visit. Have questions planned ahead of time, write them down if need be. Topics could include questions about what was covered in class, about how you did on an assignment or test, about their field experiences, further education in their area of expertise, etc.

3.       Visit with an open mind and good attitude. This could be easier for those who enjoy the class versus student who are struggling. But respect your professors for their experience and remember that they are humans and were once students too.