The Push for Directness in Professors

Dealing with professors can be a delicate dance. There are numerous instances where one wishes they could express their feelings directly, yet hesitation often prevails. This article explores situations where students fail to voice their thoughts and reflects on moments where a simple expression of gratitude would have made a significant impact.

A Common Adversity: Professors Perceived as Superiors

Speaking directly to professors can often be challenging. Some professors might be overly proud, perceiving students as inferior. For instance, I had a professor who regarded students as mere appendages to the institution, not full participants in the learning process. It would have been unwise to express this directly, as such a declaration might jeopardize the grade a student hopes to achieve.

Resisting the Urge to Complain

Other professors face criticism for seemingly trivial issues, such as their personal hygiene or accents. When my friends complained about a teacher with a strong accent, their comments often simmered on the surface, avoiding any direct interaction. It is a delicate balance between voicing concerns and maintaining a professional demeanor.

Strategies for Expressing Gratitude to Professors

Thankfully, there are ways to express your appreciation and gratitude without feeling entirely constrained by the circumstances. Being professional is the key. Here are some methods to share your thoughts with a professor.

Formal Channels of Communication

Starting with emails or even scheduled one-on-one meetings can provide a platform to share your sentiments. Writing an email can be a structured and effective way to communicate, ensuring that your thoughts are clearly conveyed and professional.

Surprising Your Professor

There are more creative ways to express your gratitude. For instance, Mrs. Mrunal, my school maths teacher, was both sweet and helpful. Almost the entire class enjoyed her lectures, and she had a unique teaching style that made learning fun. Desiring to thank her, I wished she was part of my family. This strong sentiment could have been expressed through a thoughtful card or even a small surprise that she would appreciate.

Inviting Them into Your Life

Mrs. Mrunal’s class was full of engagement and energy. She had a game-like system where students could be called to solve sums on the board. However, the attendance column was a constant source of humor. To express my gratitude, I imagined a scenario where I was living my life with her after college. This dream could be shared anonymously or during a casual conversation, highlighting the positive impact she had on my life.

Expression through Action

One of the most effective ways to show appreciation is through action. Offering to help with classroom preparation, participating actively in class, or expressing gratitude in person can make a lasting impression. Simple acts of kindness can go a long way in acknowledging the efforts of your professor.

The Power of an Undying Smile

Sharing an undying smile with your professor can make a significant difference. Whether it’s a spontaneous compliment or a heartfelt thank you, these moments can contribute to a positive learning environment. Mrs. Mrunal’s kindness and genuine approach could be reciprocated with the same level of gratitude.

Conclusion

Expressing gratitude to professors is an important part of fostering a positive educational experience. It’s about more than just the grades; it’s about recognizing and appreciating the efforts and impact of those who guide us. By finding ways to share our thoughts in a professional manner, we honor the educators who shape our academic and personal lives.