Meeting With Your Instructors

University Advising Center

Wayne State University

http://advising.wayne.edu

Why Meet With Your Instructor?

Falling behind in class

Failed test or assignment

Questions about expectations

Clarification of assignments

Feeling uncomfortable in class

DESIRE TO SUCCEED!

Reasons Students Avoid Professors

Feel “out of the loop” from missing class Fear of asking “dumb” question Fear of confrontation Shyness High School (nurturing) vs. College

(intimidating) Discomfort over approaching a professor of a

different age, gender, race, or culture

Benefits For You

Personalize your learning experience

Reduce stress levels

Save study time

Gain insight regarding curriculum, careers, graduate studies, etc.

Make a connection with someone in your field

Obtain letters of recommendation

Benefits For Your Professor

Gain insight on how the class is going Get an idea of questions other students may

have Discover ways to improve students learning

experience Professors EXPECT to work one on one with

students - TAKE ADVANTAGE!

Approaching Your Professor

Contact Contact professor immediately after you get a bad grade, don’t

understand the material or are unsure of what the professor expects…DON’T WAIT!

Check syllabus for preferred mode of contact (office hours, phone number, e-mail)

If their office hours don’t work for you or you think you will need more time, make an appointment with the professor

Plan Have an agenda for the meeting Write questions out to ensure you don’t forget anything

Do’s and Don’ts

DO: Research Be punctual Make a good first impression Address professor properly Plan ahead Pay attention Thank professor for their time

Do’s and Don’ts

DON’T:Wait until the end of the semesterExpect professor to CHANGE your grade

YOUR academic performance is YOUR responsibility

Be rude or impoliteBe afraid!

Planning Grid

CourseProfessor, Contact Info. & Office Hours

Potential Meeting Date

Topics to Discuss

QUESTIONS?

Resources

University Advising CenterTips for Meeting with Your Professor

http://advising.wayne.edu/tipsp.php

My College Success StoryMeeting with Your Professors

By: Randall S. Hansen, Ph.D.http://www.mycollegesuccessstory.com/academic-

success-tools/meeting-with-professor.html