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St. Cloud State University

St. Cloud State University

Counseling and Psychological Services

(320) 308-3171
103 Stewart Hall

  Approaching Instructors

How you communicate with your professor affects how well you do in a course. In general, professors are likely to be impressed with students who show a genuine interest in their course material and ask good questions. The syllabus can be an effective planning tool whose value is often overlooked by students. Consult it before approaching your professors. The use of the syllabus can be an important planning tool to pace your study time and the preparation of term papers, projects, case study reports, etc.

When considering whether to approach professors, ask yourself:

  1. What do I have to lose?
  2. Would I be better off or worse off if I approached my professor?

bullet When you have Academic Problems

Most instructors are very cooperative and willing to assist students with their concerns or questions, especially if the instructors understand the nature of the concern. Talk with your instructors about your situation so that they understand your specific needs. The following are some suggestions for approaching your instructor:

  • Seek help as soon as you recognize that you have a problem.
  • Professors are usually willing to help you or to refer you to other sources of help.
  • Explain your situation so that the instructor understands what assistance you may need. Discuss alternatives.
  • Come to a clear agreement. Before you end the meeting, you and each instructor should have a clear understanding of what he/she is willing to do and what you need to do.
  • Let your instructors know that you appreciate their willingness to work with you and your situation.
  • It is best to make an appointment, or visit an instructor during office hours, to discuss concerns. It is difficult for an instructor to fully consider your problem when he/she is packing up at the end of a class.
  • Prior to meeting with an instructor, write down the points you want to discuss. This helps you clarify your concerns and to focus on the strengths and weaknesses of your arguments.
  • When approaching the instructor, the tone of your inquiry is important. Be prepared to listen to the instructor's explanation of your grade and, in turn, to make your points in a reasonable and straight forward manner.
  • Ask questions in class when you don't understand something
  • Attend help sessions.
  • Find a tutor.
  • The Counseling and Psychological Services (Stewart Hall 103; 308-3171) and Academic Learning Center (Stewart Hall 101; 308-3171) offer assistance for students experiencing academic difficulties.

bullet Email

If you are having a difficult time contacting your professor or if you have a time conflict with your instructor's office hours, email may be an alternative. 

  • Check your syllabus to see what the instructor says about the use of email. 
  • The tone of your inquiry is very important. Communicate professionally and respectfully.
  • The ability to email an instructor gives you a non-threatening venue for approaching your instructor and gives instructors a means of controlled response and an alternative for reaching out. Some things to keep in mind:  the instructor may not respond immediately, you may email on the weekend and they may not check their email until Monday.
  • Do not email an instructor after a deadline for something has passed. They will be more receptive to hearing what you have to say if you approach before a class period or before a class deadline.