The Top Six Reasons to Go to Office Hours
As both a long-time student and a TA, I’ve seen my fair share of office hours—and the difference that fifteen minutes going over a term paper or quiz results in office hours can make to future learning.
While it can feel intimidating to meet one-on-one with your professors, don’t let shyness deter you from office hours. Here are our top six reasons you should go to office hours!
You’re Not “Wasting” Your Professor’s Time
Let’s just get this one out of the way! I don’t know how many times a first-time office hours visitor has apologized for “bothering” me or “wasting” my time. I promise, they never do.
Most instructors have a certain amount of weekly time that they’re required to hold office hours. If students don’t come, they typically use the time to catch up on marking, email, etc., but I personally find that I have way more fun chatting with my students!
Your Grades Will Improve
Besides getting answers to your questions, you can learn about what your prof likes (and doesn’t like) in an essay, get studying and writing tips, and learn the nitty-gritty details on plagiarism and academic honesty.
While results may vary, most of my students went up by at least half a grade point on their next paper—and that was after only one session!
You Get to Know Your Instructors
It’s often hard to get to know your professors, especially if you’re in a big class. Office hours are a great chance to talk with your instructor one-on-one.
Believe it or not, the professional relationships you have with your professors can be hugely important later, as they can give academic and career advice and might write reference letters for your graduate or professional school applications.
You Might Get a Listening Ear
While your professors can’t provide mental health counselling, a trusted professor can offer guidance if you’re worried about something. For example, I’ve had many instructors give me advice and anecdotes on the pros and cons of grad school.
If what you’re experiencing is better handled by another professional, they can direct you to the right place (i.e. counselling, or newcomer or disability services).
You Don’t Have to Do Them Alone
If the idea of going to office hours is still too stressful, consider going with a friend (or friends)! Most instructors welcome group office hours sessions, especially if they can clarify a question for multiple people at once (which reinforces Point #1). Gathering a group for office hours is also a great way to meet some of your classmates. It’s a win-win!
It’s Faster Than Late-Night Googling
If nothing else convinces you that office hours are the best, try this one: you’ll probably get a faster, more straightforward answer to your question from a ten-minute visit to your prof than an hours-long, last-minute, panic-fueled, internet-searching session (because it always takes way longer when you’re tired).
Looking to take notes efficiently? This video will help you take great notes online using Google Docs!
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