Study Hard and Connect | University of Lethbridge

“It is so important to actually talk to your professors. I always thought my professors didn’t want to talk with me and that my grades would speak for themselves, but now I know this isn’t true. Even if you have great grades, if you never talk in class, your professors won’t be able to write a very good reference letter for you. It would also make asking for a reference letter incredibly awkward. Further, having professors that you are able to connect with helps you both academically and in terms of your network in the future. I never thought about this, in this way, as an undergrad.” – Makita

“Literally, just ask. Everyone wants to help if you are willing to put in the effort. The only person holding you back is you, and the answer will always be no if you never ask. If you try, your professors will recognize that and go out of their way to help. Be polite and work hard. Everything else will fall into place” – Katrina

“Students should know that it is so important to communicate with professors because it is the best way to form connections with them. Office hours are much better than email because they are able to place a face to a name, however, do not be afraid to email your professor if going to office hours seems intimidating.” – Julisha

“When I first went to university, anytime I emailed a professor, I made sure to be polite, professional and get to the point. I also found that office hours were much more efficient than over email as it can sometimes be hard to ask the question you have effectively over email. Office hours can be intimidating, but it’s also another great way to get to know your prof on a personal level, and I promise this will help later on in your degree if you want to do applied studies or a thesis!” – Skylar

“Sitting down with a professor and talking through problems and getting verbal clarification is always quicker and more helpful than asking long questions through email. If your question is hard to convey through email, the professor will likely have difficulty answering! It also helps to build relationships with professors when you see them face to face. I highly recommend going to office hours. You often get into awesome conversations with the professors that go beyond the scope of the course!” – Madeline

“Office hours will allow you to make a more personal connection to your professor and to use a far greater depth of their knowledge and advice. In my opinion, you receive the same benefit from a few minutes in a professor’s office then you will from numerous emails. I found professors inviting and personable each time I attended office hours. Most professors are willing to book a time to see you outside of hours if your schedule conflicts.” – Angelica

“It’s usually better to always go to office hours. Students rarely go to office hours, so if you have something that you don’t understand, you’ll have some one-on-one time to really get to the bottom of things.” – Jace

“Office hours are better than emails. You get the opportunity to speak one on one with them and get to know them better.” – Haley S

“I like the efficiency of emails, but if you are very confused about a topic, I recommend attending office hours.” – Elisha

“Professors do have a lot of education behind them (which can be a bit daunting). However, they are still just people. They are happy to help and want you to succeed. If you have a question, ask it. Emails are best for simple questions. Otherwise, office hours are great for more complex questions that can’t be answered in a sentence or two.” – Tabitha

“Professors get an insane number of emails every day! While an email is sometimes more appropriate (such as for quick, less urgent questions), they set aside their office hours for communicating with and supporting students. Questions that require more than a line or two to address in an email are always better saved for in-person meetings. Most professors are also open to arranging other times to meet if their office hours conflict with your schedule.” – Alyssa

“Your professor is not as scary as they seem. They are genuinely there to help you on your educational journey and were once in your shoes. Make an effort to meet them after class for five minutes or go to office hours. Your professors are way more likely to grant you an extension or boost your final grade if they know who you are.” – Ziara
       
“In my experience, every professor has their preference, and they will usually mention it on syllabus day (so it’s not a bad idea to write that down!). A good rule of thumb if emails are preferred is to send them after double-checking the syllabus, and to try your best to send emails during the week and during business hours.” – Amy

“Less is more. Ask professors clear and precise questions to fill your knowledge gaps. I found email communication was the most efficient for me. However, it depends on the professor.” – Derek

“I know it seems daunting at first, but as long as you’re respectful and professional, communicating with profs isn’t all that bad. Personally, I’ve always preferred to email as I can be direct about what specific questions I have, and we can usually set up a time to meet outside of office hours to chat, but if you’re not getting a reply, then dropping by during office hours is a good next step!” – Cayley

“Professors will frequently specify their preferred form of contact. Both emailing your professors and visiting office hours have advantages. I would always encourage students to email their professors because it is convenient and often less intimidating. However, because we are a smaller institute, I would strongly encourage students to attend office hours so that your professors can get to know you and you can build your network.” – Zaynab  

“Always write professional emails since professors may write you a letter of reference one day. Office hours are also great to receive quick one-on-one teaching for a concept you didn’t quite understand in class. They are always happy to help you succeed!” – Shannon

“Professors are people. I know they can seem scary because they pretty much hold your future in their hands, but just talk to them from adult to adult. Be polite and nice, and if you think you deserve a better grade, talk to them about it.” – Hana

“Present yourself professionally, especially when addressing them in emails. You will have a better chance getting help from a professor if you come to class regularly and participate, maybe even introducing yourself in person.” – Cassady