Think of it as a friendship… When you’re in the middle of a conversation with a buddy and they start texting, appear bored or don’t even pay attention – it’s going to eerrrrk you. You want to keep your friends engaged in what you’re saying – not bore or overwhelm them with the story they’re telling you. Similarly to hanging out with your buddies, being present in class is key to maintaining your student/professor relationship. Below are three simple tips to help you Win Your Professor Over… #1: Participate: As mentioned above, professors are just like you, but with more experience (experience and knowledge you NEED in order to pass the class you’re taking). So, if you’re looking to impress your professor and do well in your class, start by actively participating. Taking notes, asking questions and engaging with your peers will earn you points with your professor. From the professors stand point, it’s all about appearances. If they see you ask questions and demonstrate that you understand the material they’re teaching, then they’re going to believe you care (which I’m guessing you do, right?). #2: Acknowledge: Keeping up to date with class assignments, expected reading materials and upcoming exams is a major part of taking a class (especially if you’re in it to win it). If you want to play the game to win it, utilizing your social media and internet skills can be a really neat trick to go above and beyond. You can keep up with what your professors are doing inside and outside of college by simply friending them or following them. Whatever your social media interest may be, look up your professor and become their friend online. Worried about indecent posts your friends might tag you in? No problem! Place your professors in a restricted list so they can’t view your timeline. They may do the same with you. Key point: Mentioning you saw them published in an article or asking them about the event they attended within the past weekend will set the stage for communication between the two of you. It’s not just about the work – it’s OK to make friends with your professors. In fact, it’ll probably come in handy later on down the road when you apply to internships or jobs. You’ll want and need them as a reference! #3: Volunteer: If you’re taking classes that consist of outside study groups or class activities, raise your hand to lead one or two throughout the semester. You’re going to have to study anyway, so what better way to do that than to study with your peers? The benefit to doing this goes beyond just “appearing good to your professor.” You’ll meet new people, learn more effectively and most likely shine in a positive light to the professor who is teaching the class. Ultimately, it boils down to you and your own personal comfort zone. Unfortunately, there is no liquid potion or old woman with a magic wand to make your professor love you. The pressure is all on you my friend… Which means YOU have the opportunity to make or break your overall grade in the classes you take. Don’t be a floater – that’s just a waste of your time and energy and in turn everyone else’s who you involve. No finger crossing and hoping for the best here. So, hop to it and get to talking! Need more help? Check out The Secrets of College Success handbook. It has over 800 tips, techniques and strategies to help you through college! As a Dorm Room Movers author, feel free to leave any comments or additional tips you feel should be practiced to Win Your Professor Over. Peace, Miki
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