It’s the time a year again where students are either filled with joy to learn or dreading the thought of stepping into another classroom. University and College are a big deal, or so everyone makes it out to seem. As I start my third year of university they’re some things I have come to realize from the transition in my life. These may be some of the most exciting reckless times of your life or the your time to bask in the educational realm.
One thing I have found that really helps in university is talking to your professors. Most students tend to be afraid of their professors as if they are some kind of villain, but there’s no need to be scared. They’re just humans, they aren’t as intimidating as people them out to be (and they certainly don’t have horns). My first year I didn’t bother interacting with any professors and that affected my grade. Following that torturous first year, second year I went and tried to meet each professor. Let me tell you, it honestly made a difference. Even if it was just to ask them about a essay topic or a thesis, they will help as much as possible (without doing all your work– there’s always a catch). It also allows for great connections for the future, whether it be future classes or future careers. Professors want you to succeed– if students were constantly failing their class, it wouldn’t look good on them. Most professors would love to help out, even if you have the smallest question. Although not all professors are as helpful as others, it’s still worth trying.
I get the chance to talk to many professors at my part-time job since it’s close to campus. One thing I found to be interesting is that professors have students go and talk to them not just for academic help but to chat about their personal lives. The professor that I spoke to said she wasn’t much a fan of it. Professors have their own problems and may not have time to take on ours as well, that’s why we have so many resources at our school. Although not all professors may feel that way, it is still a good thing to keep in mind: your professors aren’t guidance counselors, and often they are going through their own stress. Nonetheless, if it’s class related you can and should talk to professors. It will be the most beneficial to you and you will see a huge difference when a professor gets to know you personally.