First Generation College Coach

The College Professor…Don’t Run Away

Yesterday I met with a group of new freshmen attending college during the Summer to get a head start on classes before the Fall semester began. It was so great to see all the energy in the room and the excitement in their eyes as we began discussing how college was a little different then their high school experiences. I got questions about choosing majors, finding internships, understanding financial aid, how to find a job on campus, and how to join a club.

Then it happened, the conversation started to focus on professors and some of the fears students have about their relationship with the one person who knows the most in the class. I’ve certainly seen it every year.

“How can I talk to my professor? He’s a little intimidating”

“What if I ask a stupid question? Will she question if I should be in her class?”

I’m here to tell you, get to know your professors. They are the most knowledgeable about how to be successful in their classroom and you need to get in on some of that knowledge sharing. They are the EXPERTS right? Here are some tips of how to start building a good relationship with your professors:

1. Stay after class and introduce yourself early in the semester.
2. Go to each of your professor’s office hours at least once each semester.
3. Ask how can you be successful in the class before the first test
4. Thank you professor for sharing the knowledge and how they help you to learn

College is certainly a time to build relationships and your professors are a great place to start. I hope that helps and all the best on your college journey!