When connecting with a professor it is important to first take a look at the course syllabus to find key information such as the professor’s email and office hours. The next step is to make a good first impression with the professor. At a 4-year institution, class sizes can exceed 100 students in a single course therefore it is important to stick out for the right reasons. Send an email or stop by the professor’s officer hours to make an introduction.

Making this connection has its benefits. By separating from the rest of the class, the professor now recognizes that face or that name of a student who made an effort outside of the classroom. If that student needs an extension or has an issue in general, that professor might be more inclined to help or give that extension because that student has shown more effort than the average student.

Now what is one to do if the interaction with the professor is negative? An important step to take, depending on the situation, is speak to the professor directly and professionally to try and work through the conflict. If the situation is not resolved or worsens the next step is to speak to another member of faculty to get advice on what the next course of action should be. The last step is reaching out to the Dean of the department to let them know the seriousness of the problem and the previous attempts to resolve the problem.

There are many benefits of attending a research institution! At a research institution the student gets access to improved courses, passionate educators, the chance to fulfill dreams and goals, further educational and career connections, and the ability to be around the best of the best. When a student gets into a specific department or field, they get access to professors and faculty that have spectacular credentials and knowledge of years of researching in that field and building their own connections that they may be willing to share with their students.