Building Relationships with Professors Early
Your professors want to see you succeed, and introducing yourself early on can make your college experience even more rewarding. Taking a few minutes to make a connection during the first few weeks of the semester can open the door to valuable support throughout the semester and beyond. While it may feel intimidating to walk up to a new professor or visit their office, remember that building relationships with your professors is an extremely important part of your college experience.
Your professors are more than the individual giving a lecture. Once you make an effort to get to know them, they can become mentors, resources, and connections as you move through college and begin thinking about your future career. Here are a few simple ways to begin breaking that barrier.
Introduce yourself after class. A quick hello and your name can help your professor put a face to your name and show them that you are intentional about your education. You do not need to have a long conversation or come prepared with a list of questions. Simply introducing yourself, mentioning that you are looking forward to the class, or sharing a little about your interests can be a great first step. This small interaction can make it easier to approach your professor later in the semester when you have a question or need guidance.
Visit office hours. Office hours are a great opportunity to connect with your professor outside of the classroom. Stop by with a question about an assignment, something you discussed in class, or even just to have a short conversation before you need academic help. You do not have to wait until you are struggling in a course to visit. Having this foundation helps build a relationship and makes future conversations feel less transactional since you’ve become a familiar face. It also gives you a chance to learn more about your professor and their experience, interests, or areas of expertise.
Participate in class. Asking thoughtful questions and engaging in discussions shows that you are invested in your education. Professors especially appreciate this in larger lectures where some students may feel nervous to speak up. You do not have to have the perfect answer or contribute to every conversation. Start by asking a question, responding to a classmate, or sharing your perspective when you have something meaningful to add. Being an active participant can help your professor recognize your interest and effort, which makes a great impression.
Communicate professionally. If you need to email your professor, be respectful, clear, and include the important details they need to understand your question. Take note of when they are available and operate accordingly. For example, if your professor has listed specific office hours or communication preferences in the syllabus, make an effort to follow them. Professional communication is a skill you will continue to use throughout college and your career, so your interactions with professors are a great place to practice.
Stay connected. Building these relationships can lead to mentorship, recommendation letters, research opportunities, internships, and career advice long after the semester ends. It is important to always greet your professors around campus and check in, even after the class is over, to maintain the relationship you have built. You may take another course with them later, need a recommendation for an opportunity, or simply want advice as you explore your career path. A professor who knows you and your work is much more likely to remember you when those opportunities come along.
Most importantly, do not overthink it. You do not need to become best friends with every professor you have, and not every relationship will develop beyond the classroom. The goal is simply to make the effort to connect. As you begin a new semester, remember that your professors are one of the many resources available to help you succeed. Take advantage of that relationship early, and you may be surprised by where it can lead.