How to Connect with Professors

Whether you are just starting your academic journey or have been at it for a while now, one of the most beneficial skills you can learn is to connect with your professors and instructors. I know it can seem intimidating at first, or sort of arbitrary for prerequisite classes that may not have anything to do with your major or concentration. However, connecting with professors can be as simple as engaging with course material through open conversations in classes, asking questions, or speaking up to answer questions. 

Professors are not just teachers; they are mentors and, most importantly, people from whom you may need a letter of recommendation one day. It’s wise to find ways to let the professors know that you care about your education and their work is appreciated. To help ease any anxiety you may have about connecting with your professors, I have made a short and simple guide to get you started.

 

5 Simple Tips for Connecting with Professors:

1. Go to office hours! Even if it is to introduce yourself.
2. Participate in class! Ask or answer a question now and then.
3. Email professionally by using greetings, complete sentences, and your name. Also, understand that sending an email at 10 pm will not always get you an immediate response the next day.
4. Show interest! Mention what you found engaging about their lecture or research.
5. Follow through by meeting deadlines and responding if they give feedback.

 

Dos & Don’ts

Do

• Have patience! Everyone has a lot on their plates, so it is important to stay calm and kind.
• Connect their lessons with your own goals or interests!
• Engage in class discussions respectfully and appropriately! Bonus points if you can mark your discussion points with class readings.

Don’t

• Don’t treat them like a friend on social media. When you are able to really connect with a professor, you can connect learning with your personal goals and interests. Just remember to keep things professional.
• Don’t burn bridges just because you don’t click with them. We don’t always get along with everyone, and that’s okay. Learning happens best when we can hear everyone’s voices.
• Don’t argue without proper cause or outside of proper channels. If you need to appeal a grade, do so properly and appropriately.