Keith Murray is a marketing professor at Bryant University. Over the years, being a student and teaching 100s of them, he has encountered many things that he wishes he could tell his students but simply found himself unable to convey such. Check out his list of 6 things he wish he could tell his students and maybe you’ll understand your teachers a bit better:
1. IMPRESSING US IS EASIER THAN YOU THINK
If you show up to class, sit in the front, have a good attitude, and regularly contribute, your professor is going to remember you. It’s that easy. No need to be the next coming of Richard Feynman.
2. IT’S AN ADDED BONUS WHEN YOU ACTUALLY LIKE US
The goal of a teacher is to prepare you for the future, not to be your best friend. Nevertheless, it’s always great to have a positive relationship with students.
3. WHERE’S THE LOVE?
Remember, your teachers will be writing you recommendations and helping you out in the future. Who knows who they may know? Treat them well and they will help you.
4. THE GRADING SYSTEM ISN’T ALWAYS FAIR
Nobody will care what you got in freshman general chemistry. It’s about the process of building character and acquiring knowledge, not necessarily the final output. Nevertheless, that’s not how the grading system works.
5. I’M WILLING TO HELP, BUT YOU HAVE TO LET ME
Most professors have tons of valuable advice and connections, but if you refuse to ever look them in the eye and ask them a questions, don’t expect them to go out of their way to help you.
6. KNOW WHAT IT TAKES TO SUCCEED
Your future is not defined by one grade in one class, but if you want a good grade, talk to your professor. Do what you have to do, but don’t just sit around and be dramatic.
