College professors are certainly different from any teacher that you’ve had in high school. While high school teachers may have their quirks, college professors seem to take those “quirks” and turn them into an entire personality. Here are just a few of the professors you may encounter in college.
1. The "Cool" Professor
This professor thinks they’re still in college. They’re always trying to be funny and relatable in class, but it just comes off as kind of awkward. These professors may try to incorporate memes or gifs into their slide shows, but they are rarely funny. If they have to mark your assignment for being late, they always blame in on “the administration’s policy.”
Pros: A class with this type of professor may be more laid back. If you make friends with them, they may even let you turn in an assignment a little late or let you retake a quiz.
Cons: Class can be really awkward and you may feel like dying from the second-hand embarrassment.
2. The Old Man
This professor has been working for the school since your parents were in college and they’re likely to remind you of that just about every other day. This type of professor also has two “sub-types,” if you will. The first is the cool old man. This professor is actually a really good teacher and tends to be pretty funny in class. He may not know how to make a YouTube video full-screen, but he’s always eager to learn when you show him how to do anything on the computer. The second type is the grumpy old man. This professor hates you, the college, the administration, just about everything. He won’t tolerate any talking or texting in class; if he even sees a cell phone, he’ll probably kick you out.
Pros: These professors have been around the block a time or two and have a lot to teach you. You’ll likely learn a lot of things that will actually be applicable in your field.
Cons: The old man may be out-of-touch with the new information or techniques in your field. It also may be frustrating when your professor doesn’t know how to enter your grades properly.
3. The Hippie
This professor is very laid-back and likes open discussion in the classroom. They are very up-front about their political beliefs but welcome debate and discussion. This professor may like to have class outside if it’s a nice day.
Pros: Classes with this type of professor tend to be really open and free. This professor can be very encouraging while still pushing you to do your best.
Cons: This professor may get off-topic a lot, causing you to learn less than you should be.
4. The Expert
This professor has more than likely worked in your field for several years and knows exactly what they’re talking about. They’re very straightforward about what you’re doing wrong and are quick to give out judgments. But, these critiques are never meant to be mean, they really want you to succeed.
Pros: You’ll learn a lot from this professor and, because they’ve actually worked in your field, they can give you tips on how to find a job and what career might be best for you.
Cons: This professor may come off as mean to those with a tender heart. If you have trouble taking criticism, just try to tough it out.
5. The Deadpan
This professor can tend to be monotone during lecture, but they make up for it with their hilariously dry humor. They tend to be cool teachers and just cool people in general. You’ll really enjoy their class because it’s never boring.
Pros: The classes are really fun and the jokes will probably make you want to pay attention more.
Cons: Their jokes could potentially distract from the information you should be taking notes on.
6. The Counselor
This professor is a typical mom/dad. They are likely to have their personal cell phone number somewhere on the syllabus “in case you need anything.” They are always inviting you to their office hours and encouraging you to talk to them if you ever need anything. This can really help if you’re ever having a hard time (which is most of the time in college) and are far from home. These professors give the best advice and will always check up just to make sure you’re doing okay.
Pros: It’s nice to have an actual adult you can talk to when you need them. They are happy to go out of their way to help you through any problems you may be facing.
Cons: Nothing, really.
Those are just some of the professors that you’ll run into in college. If you don’t learn anything in college, at least you’ll have some funny professor stories to tell.
