Here are some tips for how to better develop relationships with faculty.
Actively participate in class
Participation is usually required and is formally built into course grades. It can also help your professor get to know you. By participating, you demonstrate your understanding of course material and how you think about what you are learning. This helps your professor to see you as a scholar and shows that you are engaged in what is happening during class.
Active participation includes asking questions. It is common for students to feel afraid to ask questions - you might assume that everyone else understands things better than you do. But this is probably not the case.
Go to office hours (at least 2-3 times)
Office hours are your chance for individualized time with your professor or instructor. You can use office hours as an opportunity to get in-depth clarification of course material, get your questions answered, and to build rapport.
Look at “But What Do I Say?” Five Topics for Office Hours from the University of Oregon Division of Student Life for tips on what to talk about during office hours when you have questions about content to work on building your professional relationship.
Also check out Using Office Hours Effectively from the UNC Learning Center for helpful guidelines about why, how and when to use office hours.
Invite them to FLUNCH
FLUNCH offers students the opportunity to connect with faculty outside the classroom, regardless of physical location. Commit to using all of your FLUNCH funds each semester!
Stay in Touch
As you become acquainted with faculty through coursework, office hours, and other ways, consider staying in touch even after the semester ends. Send an email, invite them to coffee, or stop by their office once a semester to discuss your interests and to keep in touch.
Adapted from University of Michigan: Seven Tips for Building Strong Working Relationships
What if I want to get to know a professor who is not the instructor for one of my classes?
Connecting with faculty outside your courses is a great idea. Maybe it is someone involved with research you are interested in, or you're just curious about their field. Great! check out our guide to emailing faculty.
