Why You Should Take Advantage of Office Hours
Why You Should Take Advantage of Office Hours
When you receive your syllabus on the first day of class, you might notice your professor's office hours at the top of the sheet. Office hours are scheduled times where students can meet with their instructors outside of class for any additional assistance they may need. It is a valuable resource provided by the instructor that often goes overlooked. Don’t underestimate the power of asking questions during this time that was made for your benefit. Here are some reasons why you should take advantage of your instructor’s office hours.
Why You Should Take Advantage of Office Hours
Attending office hours can be the difference between an A and a B. But utilizing this resource isn’t limited to just improving your grades. There are so many benefits you could be missing out on—perks that can have a positive impact on your overall academic and professional development. In this blog, we’ll explore why you should make the most of office hours and how it could add to your college success.
1. Personalized assistance
It can be difficult for instructors to individualize their teaching approach for each learner in a structured environment with over 15 students and during limited class time. But when you take time to speak with your instructor during their office hours, you will get to speak with them one on one. This means that they can tailor their teachings directly to your needs. Your instructor will be able to adjust their methods and take your unique learning style into account when assisting you. You can be sure that your questions and concerns will be heard and addressed.
2. Build stronger relationships
College isn’t just about learning new subjects and getting good grades. It's also about building relationships that can have a lasting impact on your academic and professional life. Attending your professor’s office hours can be a great way to develop a strong relationship with them. You’ll be able to connect with your instructor on a personal level and distinguish yourself as more than a face in a crowd, which can be especially important in online or asynchronous classes.
Use this time to network and show your professor that you are interested in the subject and eager to learn. Instructors often have a strong network in their respective field that they can connect you with to further your studies and career. Building such relationships is important and can come in handy when it is time to ask for recommendation letters.
3. Clarify concepts and ask questions
It is very likely that you will come across a complex concept in class that you need additional clarification on. You might be confused or stuck on a particular problem, and maybe the class has already moved on to the next lesson. Your instructor’s office hours are the perfect time to get your confusions all cleared up. You and your professor can spend extra time on one specific area, whether it is an essay prompt, a question from a homework assignment or past exam, or even a practice problem.
Even if you have a general understanding, you can still ask for further explanation so that you can gain an even better grasp on the subject. Professors can break down difficult concepts, provide alternative explanations, and offer additional resources to help you master the material. Asking for help and removing any doubts you may have can help you ace your next test and pass the class with flying colors.
4. Get feedback on assignments
If you’re eager to improve your academic performance, consider asking your professor for feedback on one of your past assignments; it could be an essay, a homework assignment, project, or exam. Instructors can provide you with constructive feedback on your work, giving you valuable insight on what you did well and where you can improve. You can apply this information to future assignments, which can help you learn from your mistakes and earn a better grade. Getting feedback on assignments can even help you prepare for an upcoming exam. You can use your professor’s feedback to study and better understand the material.
5. Explore your interests
Office hours don’t just have to be for understanding class material and improving grades. Use this time to your advantage by asking your professor about how to get career-ready for the industry. Instructors have firsthand experience working in the field they teach and, as we mentioned earlier, have an extensive network in their respective line of work. If you’re interested in a career in the subject of your class, your professor will be a great resource.
Your professor can provide insights into research opportunities, recommend elective courses that align with your interests, and help you navigate the challenges of your chosen field of study. They can even suggest companies and organizations you can intern for and be your professional reference.
6. Discuss you grades
It can be upsetting to receive your test scores back only to find that you didn’t do as well as you thought you would. Another reason why you should take advantage of office hours is that you can discuss your concerns about your grades, or class in general, with the professor in a private setting. By reaching out to your professor, you can better understand your performance and identify ways to improve. While not all grades are subject to change, having this discussion can open the possibility for the instructor to reevaluate your work, help you stay on track, and provide extra credit opportunities.
7. Learn effective study strategies
Studying for college courses can differ greatly from high school. You might be taking a class with a very specialized topic, and you may be wondering what the best approach is to study the material. Office hours can be a great way to fine tune your study strategies to meet the demands of the class and your evolving academic needs.
Your instructor can guide you through specific strategies, like note-taking techniques, time-management tips, and test preparation methods, that will help you study the material. And, because you will have personalized assistance when you meet your professor during their office hours, you can discuss your study habits and your professor can suggest tips based on your learning style.
NJIT will support you at every step of your academic journey
Attending your professor’s office hours has many benefits that will have a positive impact on your college journey. Along with better understanding the material and improving your grades, office hours provide students with the opportunity to connect with their professors, network, and become career-ready. Don’t hesitate to schedule a meeting with your professor or drop by their office. Office hours are a resource available to all students with the purpose of supporting them through their courses.
At NJIT, instructors and faculty will always be there to help you in your academic and professional development, ensuring you have the support and guidance you need to excel during your time at the university and beyond. Apply today and remember to take advantage of office hours.