Each semester, I have made it a priority to sit down for lunch or coffee with at least one professor. Through these conversations, I’ve had the honor of receiving valuable knowledge, success advice and on occasion, a free cup of coffee.
Getting to know the person at the front of the classroom will be beneficial for all ages and grades. As a freshman, it shows initiative and interest in the course. As a senior, it strengthens a bond that can transform into a recommendation letter or job referral.
Regardless of any benefit the student receives in this scenario, it’s also nice to get to know a professor beyond their expertise on a course or subject. I’ve enjoyed Brenen’s Coffee and Fluff Bakery alongside intellectual conversation with professors in a broad range of courses over my past three years as an Ohio University student.
There have been a number of studies done to prove that a student-teacher relationship will aid in understanding course material thoroughly, and it will strengthen comprehension and motivational skills. While these aspects of meeting with professors are enticing enough, the personal connection is the real takeaway.
Professors are people with colorful life experiences; they want to share stories with their peers and students equally. A professor might tip you off on a good place to start looking for an entry-level job or the perfect spot to study uptown.
Getting acquainted with a professor means also becoming familiar with the campus. They have worked here longer than students have studied here; therefore, they might know the best places to start looking for people to talk to for other classes and help with scheduling.
As a closer, a more personal relationship is formed, but it should still be treated with formal standards. Approach meeting for coffee in a professional manner, send a kindly worded email or walk up after class and politely put the offer on the table. Rarely, a professor would ever say no.
A recent study shows that not only are these relationships beneficial for each individual involved, but also for the entire class, and ultimately the entire university. Having relationships with professors reduces academic pressure and increases the level of perceived social support.
Keep in mind, professors are running a very similar schedule to most students. Bustling across College Green to get from one class to another, making it to meetings for organizations outside of class and grading the work of their students. It helps to put this into perspective because oftentimes students want to immediately have a negative outlook toward a class they don’t like or a professor with a poor review online. Give them all a chance and get to know them better before deeming it the worst class on Rate My Professors.
This fall, take the time to sit down with a professor at Donkey Coffee and talk about more than just course content. Get close to the people at the chalkboard; they want to enjoy the course as much as students do. Never go in expecting a free cup of coffee or even desiring one; simply enjoy the presence and conversation with a mentor.
Abby Jenkins is a senior studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note the opinions expressed in this column do not represent those of The Post. Want to talk to Abby about her column? Email her at aj205621@ohio.edu.
