Talk to your Professors

A few years ago, something told me to talk to my professor. It’s a good thing I did. Through the conversation, I discovered I wasn’t doing as well as I thought. That conversation helped me earn a solid grade.

If not for that discussion, who knows what could have happened?

College students, take a page out of my book. Talk to your professors. Stop viewing them as enemies and build a relationship with them. Their goal is to help you. Professors seem bad because you choose to have that point-of-view.

Whether you’re doing well or bad in a class, talk to your professor. It can even be a friendly conversation. When you talk to a professor, you see another side to him/her. During class lectures, you see their seriousness. During a personal conversation, you see a lighter side. They talk calmer, they smile, and even crack jokes. That’s what I’ve realized through my conversations with them.

I’ve made a habit to talk to all my professors. I don’t hesitate to go to them after class and find out what’s expected. My strategy has helped me remain calm during class. I view it as “breaking the ice.”

Many students fail classes because they don’t realize how bad they’re doing. They fall behind and don’t bother to ask for help. I’m too much of a worrier to sit back without knowing how I’m doing in a class. I’m constantly thinking of ways to do better. No matter how hard I think, I’ll never know unless I talk to my professor.

Also, take advantage of office hours. I don’t care if you stay for 10 minutes; just go. Show professors you care. Professors love students who make an effort.

Don’t think going to office hours means you’re “slow”. If you need extra help, it’s ok. That’s what office hours are for. Attempting to get through a problem on your own can backfire. Stop trying to teach yourself the material because it won’t work. That’s why you’re the student. You must humble yourself.

Attending office hours plays a crucial role in my success. I ask all the questions I need. You think I care if the professor gets annoyed?

I was talking before about how you view professors. Start viewing them as your best friends. They have the knowledge you need to succeed. And, stop being hard on them. It’s not easy talking in front of numerous students.

Viewing professors positively is key in talking to them. Once you make the conscious decision to do so, classes will go smoother. Guaranteed.