Walking into a new professor’s office is intimidating for almost every student. Here are some common concerns that I hear:

 

The professor will think I am not a good student if I don’t know everything about the course or its content.

 

The opposite is true: professors expect students to know very little, especially in their first semester of college and in the first weeks of the semester. 

 

It is so awkward! What will I say?

 

Most professors are in the profession because they like speaking with students. We are well-prepared to talk with reticent 18-year-olds – in fact, we look forward to it!

 

I don’t have any questions, why should I attend office hours?

 

The research shows that your likelihood of success in life (fulfilling career, happy relationships, good health) more than doubles if you have a relationship with a professor in college. Attending office hours is essential to building that relationship. In terms of bang for your buck, it is the easiest thing you can do to ensure your success. 

 

If that doesn’t convince you, the reality is that it is much easier to get help when you do have a question if you already are over the initial meet-and-greet. If your professors know you they will be more willing to help you and the help will be more effective. Waiting until you are in crisis in a class is a bad idea.

 

Professors are your quickest route to employment. They write you letters of recommendation. If they know your interests and hear about a job opportunity, they will tell you about it. They usually know hundreds (or thousands) of alumni, many of whom work in the industry you are interested in.