Asking your Professors for Help
Written by Olubunmi Fatoki MD, MHA, Graduate Student Worker
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” (Matthew 7:7 NKJV) Asking for help is an essential part of learning. Yet, we often fail to ask our professors and/or tutors for help because of fear that we may be perceived as weak or be rejected. As with so many things that would serve us, our fear hinders our productivity and progress in life. Fear deprives others the opportunity to help us and add value to our lives. For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and of a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV). What you do not realize is that the more you ask for help the easier it gets. Always remember that your professors want you to succeed. Hey, it is what they are there for!
So, if you have questions or difficulties that affect your learning, do not hesitate to reach out to your professors. Here are some ways you can approach your professor for help.
Step 1: Identify and Clarify the Kind of Help You Need
Whether it is about attendance, assignments, exams, quizzes, or a personal problem affecting your academic performance, have your reasons clearly written down so that it is easier to get the right kind of help you need. This approach ensures that you are well prepared to receive help, are respectful of your professor’s time, as well as minimizes your anxiety level.
Step 2: Book an Appointment in Due Time
If possible, avoid asking for help at the last minute to allow your professor enough time to accommodate and better assist you. Know your professor’s office hours and try to meet within these hours. Alternatively, you could request to speak briefly after class.
Step 3: Talking with Your Professor
Getting along with your professor begins with having the right attitude. Be polite, keep it professional, use your professor’s last name and appropriate title to address him/her. Prepare your questions in advance and communicate them concisely. Keep an open mind and be prepared to accept criticism in a professional manner. Note that criticism offers constructive feedback, and it is part of the learning process.
Step 4: Express Appreciation
Always show a sense of appreciation to the professor for his/her time and the specific help rendered. This will be beneficial to you in the future if you need the professor’s assistance again.
I hope these tips will guide you towards success in your academic endeavors. In addition, you can plug into a study group or seek assistance from students that took the class in past years. “So, we, who are many, are [nevertheless just] one body in Christ, and individually [we are] parts one of another [mutually dependent on each other].” (Romans 12:5 AMP)
Best of luck!!
