One thing that it seems is underrated to college students is the importance of keeping an open line of communication with your professor. If you are a student who participates in class and the professor knows who you are, it’s possible that they will be more understanding when a situation arises.

Case in point: I had an exam this morning that was only open online for a certain window. However, last night, I must not have set my alarm. This mistake caused me to sleep right through my exam window. When I woke up, I was in a complete panic and I was crying and wondering what was going to happen with my grade. However, once I became more composed, I sent my professor an email telling him the honest situation of what had happened, and asked if it would be possible for the exam window to be re-opened or if there would be an alternative method to get the points. Later in the afternoon, I received an email from my professor stating that he appreciated my honesty and if I would let him know the soonest available time I could make up the exam, he would set it up. I was beyond overjoyed because I was worried that this opportunity would never happen.

I would like to think that my professor had this attitude and response because I am an active participant in the class, whether I know the answer to the question or not. Sometimes, my hand is raised to offer an opinion in a classroom debate. I am one of the few in the class that the professor knows my name, which is a good sign.

I have two main takeaways from this article. One is to participate in class and make the teacher aware of who you are, which leads into the second point of being honest and communicating with the professor when you need assistance.