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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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