4 Tips for Getting to Know Professors

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One of the most valuable resources available to college students is the faculty at the university. Getting to know some of the professors at Purdue has been a very rewarding experience for me, especially when I have needed career advice or help with a course. Additionally, having an established relationship with professors is useful in the case you need a reference for jobs or letters of recommendation for graduate school, medical school, scholarships, etc. Here are four of my tips for getting to know professors!


Kat on Campus

1. Attend class regularly

As simple as it sounds, attending class is a good way to get to know your professor. Especially in smaller lectures, being in class is a great way to get your professor to recognize your face. If your professor has time after class, you can also introduce yourself and share your interests, what you are looking forward to in the course, or your interests related to the class.

2. Engage in the course

Asking or answering questions in class is another great way to get your professor to recognize you. If you do not feel comfortable asking questions during class, you could also see if your professor has a couple minutes after class to answer any questions that you have. If there is a topic I want clarification on or am interested in learning more about, I definitely will try and ask the professor after class or email them with my questions.

3. Go to office hours

A fantastic way to get a professor to recognize you is to attend their office hours. Professors often have office hours for at least one hour per week. This time is dedicated for students to come and ask questions about the course. If you cannot attend office hours, email your professor to request a meeting at another time to discuss your questions.

4. Ask about research or job opportunities

One of the best ways to form a mentor relationship with a professor is to work in their research lab or be employed by them. If you are interested in getting involved in research, you can check out this blog for my tips for getting a research position. I got my research position by emailing the professor I currently work for and asking to meet with him to discuss his research. Through my employment with the Women in Engineering Program, I have been able to form a relationship with the Director of WIEP. These long-term mentorship relationships also give you a resource to go to for topics outside of classwork, such as career advice and networking. Additionally, long-term mentors may be able to write detailed letters of recommendation to best represent you to reviewers or employers.

If you have questions, comments or want to find more about getting to know professors, tag us, leave a comment, or follow us!



Kat Kerr, Biomedical Engineering 2021
WE Link Leadership Team


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Purdue Women in Engineering

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