There
are many reasons one may want to approach and get to know their
Professors. The possible advantages for students are a rewarding
relationship with many opportunities to learn, a recommendation letter,
research opportunities, and even a lasting friendship.
Although there is no magical way to establish a relationship with your
professor (or anyone, for that matter), there are a few methods that may
be helpful.
-
Visit their Department WebPages - Look at their interests, their
academic history, and other related information. The website, in part,
was established to attract students. This can be a conduit for
conversation. For example, upon discovering that a professor works on
school curriculums, asking a few questions regarding their
thoughts/experiences about it may spark a conversation - especially if you
are genuinely interested. It is helpful also to read a recent publication
of theirs on the subject and tell them your thoughts.
- Go to their office hours. Before the semester begins, ask them
for a syllabus. This could be a great icebreaker, and shows them that you
are an interested student. Then, as the semester proceeds, visit them in
office hours occasionally. They are there for you, and often it makes
them very happy to have visitors - especially interested ones. Bring up
points from class and don't be afraid to discuss or ask questions.
- Once you get to know them a little, ask them about
post-undergraduate work. Sometimes their insights or advice can be very
useful. If the relationship seems to be going well, see if they have
research assistantships or independent study opportunities available.
- Be straightforward. Remember that they have been through this
many times before, and there is no reason to beat around bush.
- E-mail. This is a great alternative. The best thing to do is mix
it up - both e-mail and stop by your professor's office occasionally. If
you keep up your interest, their interest in you will increase as well.
- Review exams. After exams, go to their office and ask them about
the questions that you answered wrong.
- Remember they are people, so treat them as such. Do not put them
on pedestals. Many have families, so think about what your mom's or dad's
lives are like, and professors are probably somewhat similar.
Make sure that you stick to academic topics first. Let them make the
first move to suggest it is ok to discuss something more personal.
Although they are Psychology Professors, this doesn't mean that they are
personal therapists. And if they were, generally they charge money for
their practice - it is not an entailment of office hours.
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