By Nalyn Tindall
When walking into a lecture hall, your mind is likely swarmed with thoughts on how to survive the semester ahead. But while you’re focused on your own survival, it’s worth considering another crucial factor: your professors. Those individuals at the front of your lecture room have their own set of pet peeves that can make or break your university experience.
It might seem like a no-brainer, but punctuality and attendance are crucial for all students. “Not attending classes is my number one,” says Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) queer media instructor Andrea Houston. It’s simple: if you’re not there, you miss out on vital discussions, guest speakers and frankly, your professor’s efforts.
“Don’t think about getting an A, think about developing your skills”
Houston stresses that, regardless of whether a course is an elective or a mandatory class, showing up is a sign of respect. She believes if you need to miss a class, avoid simply sending an email saying, “what did I miss?” Instead, take responsibility for catching up on your own or ask your professor for guidance the best way to do so.
Your professors are not only educators but also passionate individuals invested in their fields. They exhaust a great amount of effort crafting and delivering their courses as well as carefully curating content to maximize student success. Houston says she puts a lot of thought, time and effort into developing her classes.
TMU ethnomusicology professor Sean Bellaviti says “everything in the course is important” and encourages students not to ask what part of each lecture they need to know. Instead, he suggests students approach their studies holistically, recognizing that each component of the course contributes to their overall understanding and academic success.
“Don’t think about getting an A, think about developing your skills,” says TMU journalism professor Angela Misri. She advises students to focus on developing skills and gaining experience rather than fixating only on grades.
Misri says now is the best time to gain experience, skills and a network that will come in handy when trying to get hired down the line. Houston says, “forming good habits will mean that you probably do very well in your career, you’ll meet the right people and end up in the right rooms.”
Bellaviti emphasizes the importance of academic integrity saying, “it’s really important that students learn what paraphrasing actually is.” Plagiarism and a lack of understanding regarding proper citation practices are significant issues that can trip students up and lead to major consequences.
“Professors are just humans, we love to be talked to”
According to a report from CBC News, “Cheating [is] on the rise in universities and colleges” in Canada. TMU’s Policy 60 outlines the school’s academic integrity policies.
Bellaviti notes the importance of grasping the basics of academic writing and urges students not to shy away from seeking help when they’re unsure. He says it’s better to ask your professor directly if you have questions, rather than always relying on classmates for information. “I like to think I’m pretty friendly,” he adds, encouraging students to form relationships and engage directly with him.
Building a relationship with your professors can greatly enhance your learning experience. He encourages students to form a connection and ask questions when needed. “I want students to feel like they can come and talk to me,” he says. Seeking feedback and engaging with your professors not only helps you better understand the material but also demonstrates that you’re invested in your academic growth.
“Professors are just humans, we love to be talked to,” says Misri. She values students who are enthusiastic about learning and who make an effort to engage with both the material and the class as a whole. This can be done by showing interest in the subject matter and participating actively in discussions.
One of the biggest pet peeves for many professors is disruptive behavior during class. Houston points out that packing up your belongings before the class is officially over can be very disrespectful, especially “if I’m still talking, or God forbid one of my guest speakers is still talking.” It’s crucial to stay attentive until the very end of the session. These disruptions not only affect the flow of the class but can also signal disinterest to your professor.
Professionalism isn’t only mandatory within classroom walls but extends into your interactions with professors outside working hours. Houston advises students to be considerate in emails and other forms of communication. While in-class it’s important to engage in discussion in a respectful manner, “I love when people bring challenging arguments,” Houston notes. Still, she emphasizes that combative behavior is not acceptable. Constructive dialogue and respectful communication are key to maintaining a good rapport with your professors and instructors.
At the end of the day, it’s important to pay attention and take note of what your professors say as everyone will have their own preferences. If the syllabus makes it clear cell phones aren’t welcome in class, remember not to check Instagram during that lecture—even in classes where the teacher might be fine with phone usage.
“Forming good habits will mean that you probably do very well in your career”
Ultimately, don’t be afraid to be yourself. Professors appreciate when students are authentic and approachable. Misri says it’s natural to feel nervous but it’s important to remember your professors are there to help and support you throughout your academic journey, reminding students “we’re people too.”
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