Whether you're new to UTSC or just need those connections and reference letters, talking to a professor is a great way to start! I'll share some tips on what I did and how it helped me on my first day of university. 1. Introduce yourself at the end of the first lecture
This is a great time to talk to your professors. They don't know anyone, you probably don't know anyone, so this is a good opportunity to swoop down to lecture area and tell them your name. Some professors are a lot more approachable than others, so don't be sad or intimidated when they don't reciprocate that energy (I need to take my own advice). You can literally go: "Hi! My name is xxx, I'm a xxx year life science student and I just wanted to introduce myself! I really liked [insert one thing that you liked about their lecture] and I'm looking forward to your other lectures!" or if you have a question for them (lecture/course related) "Hi! My name is xxx. I just had a quick question about this course/on this slide..." It shows them that at least ONE person was engaged in the lecture, and if you keep on doing this, they'll start to remember your name (hopefully). These semi-scripted introductions is what allowed me to be close with some of my first-year professors and it helped me a LOT in getting reference letters (UHN and SickKids needs 2-3 reference letters?? Why??) and potential lab positions. I'll talk about this in a later post! 2. Do NOT ask them for any favours, life advice or lengthy questions while they're in a rush/busy. Sometimes I'll see students ask lengthy questions (admittedly, I do that too, but not on purpose!) and seeing the teacher pack up frantically and essentially run from the student. Try not to do this often if you want them to remember you. Moreover, do NOT ask them for recommendations right there on the spot especially if they don't know you. All it does is inconvenience and could bother them. You can ask lengthy questions during office hours and life advice as well when it's not busy at all (over email is good too!). --- Worst case scenario (for everyone who's scared of talking to them), they absolutely hate you and they visibly show that you make them miserable. The best part is they'll completely forget about you if you stop interacting with them! They won't even remember you in a week unless you make an effort to be around them. Be careful though, this is a double-edged sword and applies to making friends in uni as well. Make the effort to get to know them, or watch the opportunity pass. If you made it to the end, thanks a lot!! I appreciate it and I'm writing this spontaneously. Stick around to watch both you and my own academic journey grow! :)
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