The Faculty View on Getting to Know Your Professors
Hello everyone,
When I hand out a syllabus in one of my classes, I include numerous ways in which the students in the class can contact me. When I meet with a group of advisees for the first time, I give each one my business card, which contains my name and all of my contact information. I always encourage these students to come see me in my office hours or even to just drop by if they happen to see my door open. I’m surprised at how few students take advantage of this openness. You may feel reluctant to visit your professors and your advisor, but you’ll only get the most out of your college experience if you do so.
I advise students to pay social calls on their professors and advisor. Get to know what each of them is interested in, what their work is about, so that you can figure out where your interests intersect theirs. These are people who are experts in their fields, who have connections in their fields, who would love to share their knowledge about their fields in ways that most effectively help their students. Dropping in for social visits will make visits when you’re having trouble with the class much easier. When you find yourself having a difficult time with one of your classes, don’t ignore it. Go see the professor right away. The longer you wait, the harder it will be for you to pull yourself out of that difficulty.
I think a lot of students don’t get to know their professors because they feel intimidated and don’t know how to talk to them. Remember that your professors are just people with an expertise in a particular field and they’ve gone into teaching because they love to share that expertise with others. This article on Life Hack gives some great advice for how to talk to your professors. Don't be afraid-reach out!
Cathie
Great blog!! I feel students should all take advantage of networking and building relationships with college professionals. You're right, it’s a way to network for careers, but also to have that relationship with someone on campus when you get home-sick or need advice. I think social visits are awesome!!
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This is a great blog, Cathie. Though it's been many years since I was in college, I remember one professor who I built a relationship with - professional and personal. Not only was she a source of information and guidance when I was a student (not to mention a friendly face on a crazy day!), some 20 years later she is a mentor and a friend.
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Thanks for the article...I agree that visiting Professors is really important and helpful. These visits gave me the opportunity to ask questions and review some of the material covered in class.
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Great advice! Getting to know one of my college professors was how I was able to complete an independent study which was definitely a major reason I landed my first job.
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Great points! I know from my experience, having good relationships with your professors can lead to not only friendships but also professional opportunities.
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That's so good to know! I always wonder what type of relationship you should have with a professor. This article was really helpful!
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I had a couple classes in college that were held in large lecture halls. I really struggled in these classes and they were probably the 2 most rigorous in my whole degree program. Cell Biology and Organic Chemistry to be specific! I truly believe that I would not have passed those classes if I did not take advantage of the office hours and getting to know the professors. They got to know me and how hard I was trying, and would take the time to not only tutor me, but also to develop exercises and study guides with me. Don't let yourself get lost in the shuffle!!
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