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Effectively Using

Office Hours

Before you get to your professor's office hours, make sure you have a goal in mind for the visit. Is there a specific homework question you have, do you want to review a lecture topic, or are you just there to get acquainted with your professor?

Plan ahead

Come prepared

Arrive with your notes, textbook, and a list of questions you would like addressed.

Be respectful

Try to be respectful during office hours. Upon leaving, thank your professor for their time and help.

Don’t be afraid

Many students are nervous about meeting their professor one-on-one. Don't be- your professor is there to guide you through your studies. They want you to succeed! Be confident in your questions, and don't be hard on yourself for not understanding a concept.

The best memory will always be second to written words. Take detailed notes on what your professor tells you.

Ask for clarification

If you have trouble understanding something your professor says, ask them to explain it in a different way.

Take notes

General questions to ask

  1. What helps students to succeed in this course?
  2. Do you do any research? Can you tell me about it?
  3. How did you get to your current position?
  4. Do you have any advice for someone in this major?
  5. Do you have extra practice tests or readings I can do?