Networking with Professors

There are few pursuits a student can engage in that are as valuable as making a concerted effort to get to know a good number of your professors. In addition to being a conscientious student who actively participates in class discussion, you should cultivate a positive relationship with your professors outside of the classroom as well. Most students don't realize that a professor's worth extends beyond the content of a particular class. College faculty also possess a great deal of knowledge about one or more academic fields, university resources and services, graduate or professional study, employment opportunities, and career paths. Moreover, the student who invests the time to know and be known by at least one professor each academic year will increase his or her chances of obtaining an influential letter of recommendation—a significant factor in advanced study and employment.