The social code of behavior between students and professors is not
as precisely defined in the United States as it might be in other
countries. While some professors adhere to more traditional methods,
others will come to class wearing jeans and sports shirts and insist
that you call them by their first names. Here are a few pointers to
help you deal with professors:
- Always address teachers as "Professor" or "Doctor" unless
instructed otherwise. If the teacher desires to be called
something else, he or she will usually tell you. Do not be
shocked to hear students calling professors by their first
names. This is especially common among graduate students, since
they develop a closer professional relationship with their
teachers than undergraduate students do.
- Professors in the United States hold office hours, usually
several times a week, when they are available for consultation.
It is an opportunity used by many students to discuss projects,
to review material covered in class, or simply to exchange ideas
on a given topic. Most professors are willing to meet students
for these purposes, and they can be very helpful. Take advantage
of the availability of office hours. These informal meetings
could prove to be a turning point in your understanding of a
subject and in your relationship with a professor. Professors
usually take notice of students who show interest by
participating in class and by visiting during office hours. If
you cannot be available during a certain professor's office
hours, he or she will generally give you the chance to schedule
meetings at other times.
- Much of the professor's impression of you will be based on
your level of class participation. Be prepared for each class.
Demonstrate interest in class, speak up, ask questions, and
respond to others' comments. However, make sure your
participation is not simply to be noticed, but that it
contributes constructively and positively to the class.
- At the undergraduate level, many Teaching Assistants (TAs)
work with professors and often teach partial or full courses.
These TAs are usually graduate students from the department. You
should not call them "Professor" but rather "Mr." or "Ms." or,
if they ask you to, by their first name.
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