You’re busy. You have multiple classes, and maybe a job or internship. You have friends and family obligations. You have laundry. And don’t forget that four-hour stack of homework waiting to get done. But in the midst of all the madness, it can be really beneficial to take some time to get to know your professors, and here’s why.
- They’re a wealth of knowledge.
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These people are experts. They love the subject they’re teaching so much that they’ve made it into a lifelong career, and they’re more than happy to share their knowledge with you if you’re interested. Use these valuable resources while you have them! You’re not paying exorbitant amounts of money for a class for nothing, right?
- They can help you prepare for your future.
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Professors want to help you. They’re teaching at a university because they want to build up a successful generation of professionals. Even though professors have more insight into academia than anything else, they likely know a ton about the field they’re in and careers it offers. I’ve discovered a lot of information about career prospects just by talking to some of my professors. Additionally, if you have any plans to continue your education, you’re going to need letters of recommendation. Get to know your professors early so that when the time comes, they’ll be more than willing to provide you with glowing letters.
- They can be great connections.
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Through research and general interest and experience, professors likely know people. They can hook you up with opportunities, or give you advice on where to look for jobs and internships. Remember, they’ve been in your shoes.
- They can make your class much more fulfilling.
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A little one-on-one time with the professor of a class can be a lot more enlightening than an hour-long lecture sometimes. Even if you aren’t deeply struggling with the material, profs can sometimes give you an easier way to look at things, or they can frame the material in a way that is more appealing to you personally.
Sometimes professors can be intimidating with their big words and stack of degrees, but in reality, they’re just people who have the same passions as you do. Swinging by office hours will undoubtedly benefit you, and it’s likely the professor will appreciate it too.