How to work with your professor
You studied hard for a test, only to get a failing grade you know you don't deserve. If you answer a question during class, your answer is dismissed, but another student giving the same answer is praised for their intelligence.
Sometimes professors get it wrong, and dealing with this can be vital to your overall grades. It's also important for you on an emotional level—if you're really working hard to be successful, you shouldn't be punished for working hard.
If you need to confront your college professor, here are some tips on how to go about it.
Don't just barge in
Sure seeing your low grade is probably enough to make you see red, but you definitely don't want to kick his door down in front of other students and start screaming. Confronting your professor in this way won't help you get your grades, and may make things worse for you in other ways.
Instead, schedule an appointment during office hours, and be there on time. You'll want to bring with you your test scores, homework assignments, and any other proof you have that your grading was undeserved.
Stay calm
Even if you have obvious proof that the professor isn't behaving appropriately, losing your temper will only make you look like the one with the problem. You also mustspeak with the professor first, even if it is a personal issue, unless there is a very good reason not to speak with them first (as an example, any kind of sexual abuse.)
If they are talking about other students in class or are unprofessional in other ways, going to a higher authority usually won't help unless you speak with the professor first.
Regardless of your reason for doing so, explain what the problem is as calmly as possible, and if your professor is unwilling to address it, go to a higher authority only after this discussion.
Low grades? Be prepared to do more work.
Were you accused of being the one that cheated? Offer to retake the test separately. Did you miss a homework assignment due to ill health or another sound reason? A doctor's note as proof, the finished assignment, or perhaps offering to do more work will help.
Do you think the professor made a grading mistake? Show him the areas you have a concern about, and address them.
Don't wait till the last minute
If you realize you're going to fail and beg for make up work a week before the end of the semester, you're probably not going to get the answer you hope for. Staying on top of your grades, paying attention to homework assignments, and getting the most out of your work needs to happen consistently through the semester—not just at the very end.
Most professors don't actually want to fail you. If you are willing to work hard and take the time to address your concerns, most professors will give you a chance. Likewise, if they are behaving inappropriately, you are probably not the first one to notice. Your evidence may be the proof needed to make changes that will benefit other students long after you.
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