WAYNE COLLEGE
Counseling & Accessibility Services
Top Things to Never Say or Do to a College Professor
- Hey, did we do anything important while I was out?
This ranks as the all-time least favorite question. You should assume that everything is important.
****The correct way to ask this question: “How can I get the material I missed when I was out?”
- Why do we have to learn this?
It is likely that you will be required to take general education classes that are not directly related to your major. Try to do yourbest and have an open mind about the material being taught.
- Do we need to buy the book?
Professors pick texts because they are relevant to the material they are teaching, so if a book is listed on the syllabus, consider it essential. If you’re asking because of financial concerns, then approach your prof privately, outline the problem, and chances are they’ll find a way for you to get the resources.
****Other suggestions: Buy used or rent the text; borrow a friend’s; see if the prof has an extra copy.
- So how much work do we have to do in this class?
The class syllabus contains all of your expectations, assignments, and due dates.
****Tip: If you have genuine concerns about the amount of work a class requires, speak with your prof, or make an appointment with a tutor at the Smucker Learning Centerto discuss suggestions to manage your workload.
- Do not refer to your professor incorrectly.
Do not call a professor “Ma’am, Miss, or Mr.” If you know that an instructor has a doctorate, call him or her Dr. ______.
****Tip: If you aren’t sure if your instructor has a doctorate, a simple “professor” is your safest bet.
- Do you have our grades yet?
Yes, you are entitled to your grades—and your professors will try to post them in a timely fashion. Instead, ask: Will you please help me understand my current standing in the class?
- Do we need to know this for the exam?
When a student asks this question, what a professor is actually hearing is that you are only interested in learning exactly what you need to pass an exam. Nothing more, nothing less. That does not make your professor happy.
- Do you have a stapler (or pen, or ruler, or….)?
You’re in college now, and it is your responsibility to come to class prepared.
- Are you sure that’s right?
It’s not the least bit uncommon for information to come up in class that may appear at odds with information you’ve gotten from other sources. So if you’re looking for clarity, restructure the question.
****Try something like: “I’ve read something different from what you just said. Can you explain this a little more?”
10. Do not stare at your laptop or phone the entire class.
You are not being sneaky—They notice! Consistent eye contact is pivotal to making a good impression.
For appointments for Counseling, Accessibility or Tutoring Services call: 330-684-8960