How to Get on a Professor's Good Side

There are several reasons to be on friendly terms with your professor. Professors make recommendations, become references, and even be more understanding when it comes to your problems. Here are a few steps to take to be on your professor's good side.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Get to class early. Professors like it when students are early as opposed to being late. This gives them a chance to connect with the students that are there. They can ask you questions and get your opinions.

2. Ask questions. Showing interest in the class and material is something that will get you noticed. Professors like it when students take an interest.

3. Go to office hours. If you ever have any questions, go to the professor's office hours. This will give you a chance to speak one on one with the professor.

4. Participate in discussions. Some professors prefer for their classes to be more of a discussion than a lecture. Voice your opinions and thoughts. This will help

5. Talk freely. Just because this person is your professor, it doesn't mean that you only have to talk about academic-related topics. Talk about the weather or something you heard on the news; anything that comes to mind.

6. Show genuine interest. If you're forcing yourself to make this effort, it will show. A student trying to suck up to them is exactly what they don't want. There are some things, academic or not, you can talk about that will make you feel comfortable in the conversation.

Tips & Warnings

• If you go to their office, look around and comment on what you see--pictures, books, art, or anything else
• Know when to approach your professor. Some don't like to be approached after class because they have somewhere to be. Use your own judgment.