In my somewhat short time as a college student, I’ve experienced several different types of teaching styles and philosophies. Along with this, I’ve been a student to both professors who don’t seem invested in their students lives, as well as those who do. Just this past week, I’ve had two different professors show their interest and care that they have for students. The difference is astounding when it comes to the investment I have in their classes. I'd rather invest time in classes taught by caring professors than those taught by professors who put in minimal effort.
When I registered for a required business class this semester, the last thing I expected was to have a professor so intrigued by his 75+ students’ lives. He insisted on setting up one-on-one meetings with each of his students at their convenience. When I walked through his office door, I was expecting a wave of awkward silences accompanied by an uncomfortable professor to student discussion. What I experienced was quite the opposite. This professor was more than interested in my life, my status as a student both in his class and in general and what my concerns were about the upcoming semester. I had never felt so comfortable in the presence of a professor.
In a separate class, I’ve experienced a similar connection. My peers and I often engage in intellectual discussions with our professor and our opinions are treated with respect. There are never any right or wrong answers. My professor even cancelled class one day last week and instead, replaced it with extended office hours in order to allow students to address questions and concerns about her course as well as receive advice about how to move forward.
I’ve also experienced professors on the opposite side of the spectrum. Many have impressed upon myself and my classmates that they have the expectation that the student should be the primary communicator in the relationship. I fully accept my responsibility as a student to access my professors’ office hours and review sessions whenever possible. However, what I don’t think my professors understand is that a connection (rather than a mundane, stereotypical relationship) between students and educators can really enhance the academic lifestyle for both sides.
In the class where I am treated as an equal, respected and cared about as a student and a human, I thrive. I find myself excited to attend a class that I didn’t even want to register for because I know that the professor wants me to be there. I hope that more professorsand more students will make strides to create connections with each other in order to develop well-rounded educational environments. Lastly, my advice to students is this: If you experience a professor who is genuinely concerned with creating a connection with you, take advantage of it. I have never felt so comfortable in a class as I do in these ones, and feel as though I am learning more than just required material.