When it comes to professors, there are definitely many different types. I might even dare to say that finding a professor that is exactly what you want is a nearly impossible task. Not saying that other professors aren’t good, but it is rare to find one that has everything you want. Some professors are too strict, some are not strict enough, others only look to make friends with their students, and some will tell you they aren’t here for you to like them.
When it comes to what I like in a professor, I don’t really know exactly what I am looking for…I have enjoyed strict professors, but not ones whose classes are impersonal. Rather, I enjoy professors who are a nice mix of strict and fun.
I have noticed most students respond to professors who allow you to get to know them as people, who can joke with their students, and take the time to ask about their students’ lives. A professor who takes the time to ask their students about their weekend before starting class and, in turn, sharing something about themselves, is what makes a class enjoyable.
I believe that students are more comfortable approaching honest professors. Personally, I do not need to know everything about my professors, and most of time I don’t care to, but knowing even the smallest of things makes me more comfortable. It’s almost as if the professors who don’t share anything about themselves or who aren’t personable with their students are only here for the check. For some professors, that might be the case, but that is very rare.
Another aspect that makes a class enjoyable is less about professors’ teaching techniques and more about what they have to offer. By “offer” I mean the advice they give, the resources they put me in contact with, and the life lessons they teach. Obviously, I want to learn the skills that will help me advance my career. However, I feel that if I’m learning from someone who I’m uncomfortable with, I might take away less from the class in the end. Somewhere in my head I think that if a professor cannot communicate with their students, then they struggle with that in the workplace as well. It is an illogical thought but I can’t help but believe it. This makes me believe that they are low on the totem pole. I look to get advice on life and work from people I believe to be advancing in their careers.
Personally, I understand the thought of not being somewhere to make friends, but I feel it is important to be sociable. No matter where you are in life, you are going to have to work with people and interact with them. You don’t necessarily need to like your professors but you need to be respectful and open to different ideas. In the real world, you are going to meet and interact with people you don’t like. In the workplace, I might be faced with people who do not allow me to voice my thoughts and that is something I need to get used to.
I know that the people I meet at Monmouth are going to help me in the long run, even if I didn’t necessarily like them. I also realized it isn’t about liking these professors—it is about the experience and what comes next. I am fortunate to have had some really special professors and I am forever grateful for that.
