As we embark on another semester online, it is important to keep in mind that building relationships with your professors can be the key to success. In this article, I will discuss 5 steps that will help you get your professors to notice you, despite studying remotely. Before I begin, it is also important to acknowledge the technology resources offered by Hunter. If you're struggling with access to a computer or reliable wifi, don't hesitate to reach out about the technology grant, other resources can be found here and here.

Tip 1: Know your audience and review your material!

Since I am majoring in the humanities, this tip may be biased towards smaller classes (so, unfortunately, this won't help folks in chem lectures with 500+ students). However, if you find yourself taking a class where participation and discussion are large components of the class structure, be ready and willing to participate. Remember to review your readings closely before class, and when the professor is discussing the reading material try to look for the central theme of the lesson. It can be hard to know exactly what a professor is trying to extract from a discussion, but if you hit the nail on the head, your prof is sure to remember you. Also, don't be afraid to discuss your own interpretation of a reading, showing that you have the capacity to come up with an original thought will leave a lasting impression as well. Participating in class can be nerve-racking and is difficult for folks who have social anxiety, but even if you say something stupid at least you had the courage to say anything at all. Participating via Zoom is always a bit of a nightmare. Just remember that the professor (despite their possibly harsh grading policies) is always there to see you succeed.

Tip 2: Push-back!

This tip is one that I sometimes recommend depending on your professor's personality (some egos may be too fragile). Even though it can be satisfying to interpret material in the same exact way that your professor intends, it can be all the more satisfying to challenge something said in class and to bring your own take to the Zoom table. This tip is more of a "proceed with caution" because there is a fine line between being inquisitive/ challenging and looking like a know-it-all.

Tip 3: Show your face once in a while.

This tip is one of the harder ones to recommend because life at home can be so unpredictable and hectic. But, turning on your camera once in a while could be just the thing to get your professor to notice you. I am by no means positing that Hunter should have a camera-on policy for class because that's simply not possible for everyone, but if you're able to turn on your camera I'm sure your professor would notice and appreciate it. Trust me, no one cares if you're in pajamas. Chances are your professor is probably in pajamas too.

Tip 4: Pay attention to the work that your professor does outside of class

While this is not true for all professors, some are active in different organizations on campus, and understanding their work outside of the classroom could help you connect with them in a more meaningful way. Understanding their interests also might help you understand what their motives are inside the classroom, which can help you frame any questions or statements that you make in class.

Tip 5: Go to office hours!!

This one should seem like a no-brainer, but oftentimes students shy away from visiting professors during their office hours. Believe it or not, professors like it when you show up during this time because it demonstrates that you're interested in really absorbing what is being taught in class. It can also be a good place for your professor to get to know you as a student and understand your style of learning. Plus, it can be less embarrassing to ask a question during office hours than in the middle of class. Once your professor gets to know you, when they grade your assignments they'll be more likely to take into consideration what kind of person you are. You will no longer be just a name on paper.

Conclusion: What's the point?

Besides possibly improving your grades, getting to know your professor will help you out when it's time to get letters of recommendation or references. Just remember, when you ask for these letters, always ask at least three weeks before the submission deadline and make sure to ask in person, not email (in person meaning a scheduled Zoom meeting of course).

I hope you guys get a lot out of this upcoming semester! It's rough but hopefully, we won't be online forever.