Being in university is not much different than being in high school. Students have the same responsibilities of going to class and meeting course requirements, whether that is from finishing assignments, working on group projects, or communicating with their professors when needed. These are all important things new university students should carry over when attending university. Having a good relationship with your professor and teaching assistant (TA) not only will help you succeed in your courses but also help you to have an enjoyable semester and get to know something about the individual. At times in movies, university may seem serious and, in a way, scary but do not let that steer you away from not coming. Being in school for three years I have come to enjoy university and see that there are more good experiences than bad.
How to Approach Your Professors
Approaching your professor or TA can be scary at times, but do not be worried many professors like to crack jokes or ask how you are doing. This kind of interaction can make the initial introduction much less stressful for the both of you. It is not any different than meeting a new face on the street, approaching with a smile, and a simple “Hello, how’s your day?”, can make a significant difference whenever you see your professor in the classroom, around the university, and even in the community.
Standing Out to Your Professor
Asking lots of questions and offering ideas at appropriate times in class is beneficial. A professor knows which students pay attention and which do not. Showing the professor or TA that you are interested and engaged in your learning makes them recognize who listens in class. If you are not comfortable speaking in class look for opportunities when you could talk to your professor outside of class like office hours or schedule an appointment with them. Profs are busy but can always respond to emails if schedules do not align.
Building a Relationship
Your professor or TA is there to be helpful support towards your learning, as that is their purpose in becoming a teacher. Engaging in conversation regularly with your professor can build a bond and even a friendship. For example, in my program (Architectural Engineering Technology) I have had the same professors for the past three years I have been in the program. Within my first year, I knew I had to create a good relationship with each of my 4 profs to make sure the coming years would be enjoyable, and I could go to one or the other when I had questions. One of my current professors even became a mentor for my research project!
Asking for Feedback
The professor notices when you do things they like in assignments or tests. Knowing a profs or TAs standard and what they are looking for in marking can be beneficial in getting a better grade. Look for opportunities to talk with your professors outside of class, especially if you do not speak in class. Request feedback on how you are doing, and how to deepen your understanding or improve your grades. This tip can really help students excel in their course.
Although attending university might first seem intimidating, it is a wonderful experience to advance your skills in learning, professionally, and personally. Developing close relationships with your instructors and teaching assistants may enhance and improve your academic experience. In addition to helping, you succeed academically. Through these connections, many opportunities may open to create beneficial mentorship and career-related possibilities. Keep in mind that your instructors want you to succeed and are there to support you. You may be positioning yourself for a successful and rewarding time at university by approaching them with confidence, demonstrating interest, and asking for input. Make the most of your academic experience by taking the risk and establishing those relationships!
Written by Future Student Ambassador, Karolina Rogowicz (2024).
