Construction Management. Mechanical Engineering. Marketing. Accounting. No matter what your major is, your professors will absolutely be a catalyst to your success!
In this month’s blog, I’d like to discuss the relationship (or lack thereof) between students and their professors, discussing the do’s and don’ts and the importance of branding yourself on campus.
Do:
- Sit where they can see you.
Whether you’re in the front row or in their field of vision, make sure you are noticed while in class. Answer a question, ask a question, and be engaged and attentive. - Attend office hours.
Professors are there to help you succeed! They want to see you outside of scheduled class time. How can your professor truly know you, your goals, etc. when you see them with 100 other students? - Ask them for advice.
They know the school, the major companies, and the best jobs available for their students upon graduation. The career center is a great resource, but a recommendation letter from a professor who sees the student regularly cannot be beat!
Don’t:
- Miss class.
Missing classes will take you off the radar completely. Are the “A” students missing class with you? Highly unlikely. If for some reason you do have to miss class, make sure to send an email with your reasoning and ask what you can do to make up for it. - Text or Daydream.
If you are going to go to class, be 100 percent engaged in the conversation/lesson. Have you ever been called on to answer a question and had no idea what was said previously? Sure, all of us have had that moment … it’s embarrassing and it sits with the professor. Don’t make it a regular occurrence! - Expect your professors to find you a job.
Effort and drive will go a long way in your search. Don’t rely solely on your professor to shop your resume around. Have him or her be a champion for you, not your salesman!
FINALLY … BRAND YOURSELF!
Go to class, ask questions, get to know your professors, and perform well academically. These are four basic but critical factors to your ultimate success upon graduation. Continue to build strong foundations with your professors and keep them in your court!
Have a great year!
Michael K. Morales
University Relations Specialist