Dos and Don’ts During Your Professor’s Office Hours

During your college years, your professors will provide you with their Office Hours. For those who are not aware of what this is, it’s the time where you can meet your instructors to clarify anything that has to do with the course. However, a few college students are not aware of the proper decorum when meeting their professors during office hours. You probably think it’s unharmful, but it could affect your relationship in the long run.

In this post, we will share with you some of the dos and don’ts during your professor’s office hours. 

Do have a list of questions you want to ask your professors 

When you are meeting your professors, you have to come prepared. You need to list down the things you want to ask or concerns you wish to raise. If your professors seem intimidating and you feel your voice will crack down when you meet them, you can always practice first what you are about to say. 

Don’t meet your professors unprepared

Do not expect that your instructors will know the reason why you are meeting them. They are not mind-readers. Plus, they are busy people too. They have a lot of lessons to organize and papers to read. So when you set a meeting during their office hours, make it worthwhile. Be straight to the point and do not waste their time. 

Do speak up with confidence 

Again, it is normal if you get nervous having a one-on-one session with your professor. But if you want to impress them, you have to show confidence. Have a positive disposition, and show them that you are eager to learn. 

Now, if you have concerns such as your grades being too low and you feel you do not deserve it, then ask it but remain respectful. There’s always a better way of saying things. And as an adult, you have to know how to converse properly. 

Don’t be rude and arrogant  

We have to admit; there are times that your professors can be truly annoying. For example, they regularly embarrass you in front of the class or keep on saying derogatory remarks. As much as you want to confront them and show your disappointment, remember there is a proper venue for that. 

You can politely say how the remarks made you feel uncomfortable. Just be honest but always have that level of respect. If things don’t go well still, then you can always meet with the student affairs. 

Do stand your ground 

Even if your professors obviously have more authority, you have to know your rights as a student. If you believe that they are already abusing their power, be brave enough to face them. If you did not commit anything wrong, there’s nothing to be afraid of. 

Don’t send your parents to talk to your professors 

As much as possible, don’t involve your parents with your issues in school. Remember, you are already an adult, and you should handle it on your own. Of course, this is not an absolute rule. If things become more serious, you might need to ask your parent’s advice. 

Do thank them and show your appreciation

To be honest, it’s not easy to become a professor. You have a lot of responsibilities, and it could get stressful. But knowing that they still give you time to meet them means they want to help their students further. That alone deserves an appreciation. Just say a simple thank you and acknowledge their efforts.  

Don’t think that they need to be perfect all the time

Most college students think that professors are like robots. But you have to remember, they get tired too. Teaching hundreds of students every day can be physically and mentally draining. If they happen to commit mistakes and had errors as they teach, do not take it against them. But instead, raise your concern properly. Better yet, ask if they need your support. 

Your professor’s office hours is a great time to learn more things and to practice being assertive. Use that to your advantage but don’t abuse it. If you do this correctly, you might even build a good relationship with your professors and instructors. And who knows if they can turn into your mentor.