Talking To Professors During Office Hours???

Student Lounge College Life
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<p>I feel I am missing alot of opportunities to get to know extraordinary people in college, for the simple fact that I am shy when it comes to communicating and talking to my professors. The only exception to this is when I have questions or concerns about grades or assignments. I've never established close relationships with my teachers, even with the teachers who constantly told me in elementary and high school "to stay in touch". I regret that now. I have impressed several professors who always encourage me to come by during their office hours to talk and/or to keep in touch, and many tell me later on that they really regret not having the opportunity to talk with me more. I can't help the fact that I feel very intimidated. I know professors are human beings just like everyone else, but I don't want to appear stupid. I'm just an undergraduate, who slacks off in class and they are highly accomplished well-read P.H.D. holders. I feel like I don't have any significant ideas to bring to the discussion, except silly ideas and opinions that will make them laugh. I don't want to stop by their office hours and have an awkward moment where I hear crickets chripping in the background or the professor spends so much time laughing at my comments, that I feel really stupid. </p>

<p>I guess my question is... How do you "talk" to your professor and establish good relationship, without looking like you are trying to kiss their behinds? I geninuely wish to talk more to my professors, but not just for the purposes of getting decent grad school recommendations, but I really wish to know more about their work and their ideas. I don't know where to begin.</p>

<p>Thanks for reading this long post.</p>

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<p>Hey Entropy, </p>

<p>I'm in the same boat. Some people can just make up excuses to go see their professors and chat it up. I think the best thing to do is take small classes if you can, and write down questions in your notes. Don't ask too many questions, but if you have a particularly good one you should approach them.</p>

<p>Also, get help on papers whether you need it or not. Go in to see a professor ahead of time with your ideas written on paper. The hardest thing to do is actually get your foot in the door, especially if you're nervous. But once you're there, most professors will be able to read your hesitation and try and draw you out a bit. </p>

<p>Lastly, if you have a class you <strong><em>REALLY</em></strong>* like, try asking the professor about their research interests. At my school, we have an undergraduate research assistant program. Tell them you really enjoyed their class, and wondered if they were working on anything at the moment and if they're in need of a research assistant.</p>