Student Advice: How to Talk to Your Professors (Without Stressing Out)
Let’s be honest: high school and college are two very different worlds. We asked our students to share their thoughts navigating this new world.
One of the biggest differences is who will be teaching you. In high school, you have teachers; in college, most of your professors have advanced degrees or decades of experience in their field. That can be intimidating at first — it might even feel like your professors are out to get you. But trust me, they’re not.
Professors genuinely want you to succeed. Their job is to guide you through college life and help you grow both academically and personally. So, how do you build mutual respect and communicate effectively with your professors? We’re breaking it down into two key areas: Office Hours and Emails.
Tips for Office Hours
You might be thinking, “Why would I go to office hours?” Fair question! Many first-year students don’t realize how valuable they can be. Office hours are dedicated times when professors are available to meet with students, answer questions, and offer guidance. Visiting them helps you build rapport and shows that you care about your learning — which can make a big difference in your success.
Be specific with your questions. This not only saves time but also shows you’re serious about learning. Instead of saying, “I don’t get it,” try something like:
“On page 42, I didn’t understand what the author meant by X. Could you explain it?”
Specific questions lead to clearer answers and better conversations.
Be specific with your questions. This not only saves time but also shows you’re serious about learning. Instead of saying, “I don’t get it,” try something like:
“On page 42, I didn’t understand what the author meant by X. Could you explain it?”
Specific questions lead to clearer answers and better conversations.
Office hours are usually short, and you may not be the only student there. Arrive on time, have your questions ready, and keep your explanations concise. Being punctual and organized helps ensure you get the most out of your visit.
Office hours are usually short, and you may not be the only student there. Arrive on time, have your questions ready, and keep your explanations concise. Being punctual and organized helps ensure you get the most out of your visit.
Life happens — you might miss a class or fall behind. Don’t ignore it; be honest. A simple conversation like, “I missed class and wanted to check in about what I missed,” goes a long way. Professors appreciate honesty and initiative far more than silence.
Life happens — you might miss a class or fall behind. Don’t ignore it; be honest. A simple conversation like, “I missed class and wanted to check in about what I missed,” goes a long way. Professors appreciate honesty and initiative far more than silence.
If your professor gives advice or recommends resources — use them. Completing a practice problem or reviewing a suggested reading shows that you’re committed to improvement. Following through also gives you something to discuss next time you meet.
If your professor gives advice or recommends resources — use them. Completing a practice problem or reviewing a suggested reading shows that you’re committed to improvement. Following through also gives you something to discuss next time you meet.
After office hours, write down what you talked about. This helps you remember advice, assignments, or clarifications. It also shows your professor that you take their time seriously if you reference their feedback later.
After office hours, write down what you talked about. This helps you remember advice, assignments, or clarifications. It also shows your professor that you take their time seriously if you reference their feedback later.
Tips for Writing Emails
Emails might not seem exciting, but they’re essential in college — and beyond. Whether you’re contacting professors, advisors, or potential employers, professional emails are your lifeline. Here are some simple tips to make sure yours stand out (for the right reasons):
Professors receive dozens of emails every day. A strong subject line helps them prioritize and understand your message right away.
Example:
“Question about ENG 210 Paper Due Sept. 20”
Professors receive dozens of emails every day. A strong subject line helps them prioritize and understand your message right away.
Example:
“Question about ENG 210 Paper Due Sept. 20”
The greeting matters! Unless your professor says otherwise, it’s safest to use “Professor [Last Name]”. If they have a doctorate, “Dr.” is also appropriate. Never start an email with just “Hey” — it’s too casual.
The greeting matters! Unless your professor says otherwise, it’s safest to use “Professor [Last Name]”. If they have a doctorate, “Dr.” is also appropriate. Never start an email with just “Hey” — it’s too casual.
Professors teach many students, so remind them who you are. Include your full name, class, and meeting time.
“My name is Iggy Dolphin, and I’m in your ENG 210 class on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m.”
Professors teach many students, so remind them who you are. Include your full name, class, and meeting time.
“My name is Iggy Dolphin, and I’m in your ENG 210 class on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m.”
Keep your message short and easy to read. Get to the point, and avoid long paragraphs.
Example:
Dear Professor Smith,
My name is Iggy Dolphin, and I’m in your ENG 210 class. I’m writing to ask if we can schedule a time to discuss feedback on my paper.
Thank you,
Iggy Dolphin
Keep your message short and easy to read. Get to the point, and avoid long paragraphs.
Example:
Dear Professor Smith,
My name is Iggy Dolphin, and I’m in your ENG 210 class. I’m writing to ask if we can schedule a time to discuss feedback on my paper.
Thank you,
Iggy Dolphin
Before you hit send, read your email out loud. Check grammar, spelling, and tone — and make sure it sounds like an email to a professional, not a text to a friend. A polished message shows respect and maturity.
Before you hit send, read your email out loud. Check grammar, spelling, and tone — and make sure it sounds like an email to a professional, not a text to a friend. A polished message shows respect and maturity.
Take a Deeper Dive
Inspired by These Tips?
Learning how to communicate with your professors may seem simple, but it’s one of the most valuable skills you’ll build in college. Clear, respectful communication can lead to better understanding, higher grades, and lasting connections (not to mention recommendation letters or mentorship opportunities down the road). Remember: professors notice effort, honesty, and curiosity. So don’t be afraid to reach out, ask questions, and make those connections. You’re not just learning a subject — you’re building your future.
