Talk to an advisor (9 AM-9 PM EST): 866-442-6062

Talk to an advisor (9 AM-9 PM EST): 866-925-2803

College professors are more than just teachers. They can be mentors, advisors, confidants,
and friends -- valuable friends, at that! From both an academic and career standpoint, having a single good relationship with a professor can help you immeasurably, both during and after your college career.

Many students find or receive valuable internships based on a professor's lead or recommendation. Professor-student affiliations can also grow into a meaningful and lasting peer relationship. In fact, for many graduates, their most enduring college friendships are with their professors.

So, how do you get to know that intimidating person standing in front of the class? There are a number of tips and tricks that will not only help you get to know your professor, but make the right impression from day one.

The formula is simple: As any guidance counselor or college "how-to" book will tell you, just attend class, do the reading, and visit them during office hours. The vast majority of college students fail to follow these three simple steps. Do so and you'll be ahead - guaranteed - not only in terms of grades. You'll be getting to know the single most valuable resource of any university: Its faculty. Having doubts? Try it, or talk to any college student who's been there...

• "Take advantage of having your professors at hand. You can learn far more than you know."
  -- Jen, senior, California Institute of the Arts (Valencia, CA)


• "When I started to do the assigned reading, I couldn't believe how much I knew in class. Everyone was looking at me like I was some kind of genius, and the professor was so impressed. I wanted to yell at them 'just do the reading!'"
  -- Jason, senior, Vassar College (Poughkeepsie, NY)


• "Go to class. It's hard to imagine if you're still in high school, but a ton of college students skip classes. Even if it's a 500-student lecture, sit in the same place and ask and answer questions. Then you won't be just a 'face in the crowd.' More importantly, go to office hours. You might be amazed that your prof' knows who you are."
  -- Nate, sophomore, University of Washington (Seattle, WA)

Sound Off! Post Your Comments