Communicating Effectively with Your Professor

What are some effective ways to communicate with your professor?  Why does this matter?  These are questions we’ll address in this post.  

 

Why is effective communication with your professor important?

 

Your professor has the power to give you a grade, yes.  Most importantly, though, you can maximize your learning experience beyond grades by staying in step with instructors regarding their expectations and understanding all you can about the course.  This all starts with communication.

 

Just Ask

If you’re confused about what an assignment calls for, or you’re not sure about the grading system, attendance policy or anything else on the syllabus, ask your professor.  Be pro-active and make sure you understand what’s expected in the course early on.  

 

Do you need additional time for an assignment, have to take an extra absence, or know you’ll be late because of a work obligation?  Approach your professor, by email or in person, with the request.  Realize that they do not always have to agree to your request.  However, giving them as much notice as possible, providing valid reasons and keeping requests to a minimum may make them more willing to agree.  

 

Notify your professor of urgent matters or emergencies.  Even if you are unable to tell them in advance, notify your instructor as soon as possible about any missed classes or missed assignments and fill them in on some of the relevant circumstances.  

 

Email like a pro.  Impressions made in email count, too.  An email is more likely to be taken seriously if it is written professionally and politely,  including attention to spelling, grammar, and punctuation.  Make sure you proofread before sending.  

 

Help them put a face to the name.  Instructors may have dozens of students across multiple courses.  It may take them weeks to identify whose name they’re calling for attendance or when they hand back assignments.  Stand out by asking questions during class.  If you’re shy about speaking up, try approaching them before or after class.  They’ll be more likely to remember you if you talk, rather than sitting back.  

 

Attend office hours.  If possible, save the more complex questions and topics for the professor’s designated office hours.  This is your chance to bring up any questions or confusion you have about the subject, the readings or assignments.  Office hours generally give instructors and students more time to address matters that require more in depth conversation than things that can be noted before or after class.  

Remember, as a college student, you’re building your knowledge toward your future, including your future career.  Your professor can be a source of experience, knowledge, encouragement and even a part of your network.  If you do well in the class and have a good relationship with that professor, they might become a recommender for schools, scholarships and internships down the line.  Communicating with respect and professionalism with your professor can help you go further in school and in life.  

                                                                                                                                   ~ Yee Ho