Maybe it’s your first year and first class or maybe you haven’t been in school since pre-pandemic times so what should you do in a classroom?
Arrive early
Arriving around 10 minutes early is always the best for class. It’ll allow you to get situated in your seat, connect to the Internet, and maybe meet the person next to you. If your professor is early also then you will also get to know them some. In undergrad I did not prioritize this, I was always running late to class and underestimated the value of being there early.
Sit in the same seat
This is both a habit people build and a common courtesy. Pick a good seat, I tend to always sit near the front. Most of my classes don’t have traditional seating we are sat in a u-shape. It’s a great way to
- Always be able to see with an unobstructed view.
- Pay attention at least most of the time because there’s less distraction.
There is nothing worse than walking into class after weeks of getting used to a spot and finding someone in that seat. Typically, you have the first few weeks to secure the perfect spot.
Introduce yourself
It’s great to get to know some of the people you sit by in case you have to miss a class there’s someone to catch you up. A friendly face to share grievances with when the class becomes difficult.
Meet the professor, I remember in undergrad being so nervous about this and now I wish I had made better connections. In grad school I make it a point to introduce myself to every professor, it’s gotten me job opportunities, research positions, and good relationships.
Attire
This is a personal preference. Sometimes I find myself dressed nicely and other times a hoodie is the best I got. Your presentation does matter, however. No matter what, I strive to look appropriate even if I’m wearing a hoodie and jeans.
Be respectful
A class can be boring some days but avoid sleeping. There will be some classes where you pass the time scrolling or doing things on your laptop but always make sure you aren’t noticeably distracted. Don’t stare at your phone and make sure your notifications and sound are off on both your phone and laptop.
Last but certainly not least…
Participate
Speak up in class and interact with your professor and classmates as it has been studied and proven this will improve your retention of information and confidence in the material. It also doesn’t hurt when the professor you are talking to has your grade in their power. They are more likely to help you out after you don’t do well on an assignment or write you a letter of recommendation when they are able to remember you.
Next week
Come back next Wednesday to learn how to combat imposter syndrome in the classroom.