Lecturers can seem scary. It’s completely understandable. They are all knowing (yes, they know you haven’t caught up on that lecture), so asking for help can be a pretty daunting prospect. But guess what: their main goal is to help you. No matter how intimidating approaching your lecturer might appear, it’s best to just bite the bullet. Here are our top tips to overcoming that lecturer-induced anxiety.

Read the Course Outline

They say there are no dumb questions. But if the answer you’re looking for is right there in the course outline… you risk testing that theory. Read it a few times, put it down for a while, read it again. Once you’re a few weeks into the course, read it again. Your lecturer will appreciate the research. If your question reveals something missing in the outline itself they may even make an announcement on Blackboard.

Introduce Yourself Properly

Lecturers are busy people. Chances are they’re teaching more than just the course you have with them. Despite their superhuman knowledge, not even lecturers can remember EVERY student’s name.

Their time is valuable. So don’t waste it by writing an email that leaves them wondering who you are and what you even study. When composing that all-important message, remember to greet them by their professional title, and include your full name and what course you’re studying.

Don’t Leave It To The Last Minute

If you are having trouble with an assessment or think you will need an extension, contact them ASAP! Lecturers receive a lot of correspondence, especially around assignment due dates and toward the end of semester. Give them time to reply. Leaving it to the due date to message them might not result in the answer you’re after. Even better, approach them in class if you’re having trouble grasping the course content. They’re more than happy to help.

Communication Is Key

Never underestimate how valuable having a one-on-one session with your tutor can be. It’s as simple as sending an email and finding a time to meet up to discuss that assessment. If you find yourself disappointed with a mark, talk about how you can improve in the future. You never know, it might just be the difference between a Credit and a High Distinction!

Adverse Circumstances

Lecturers understand that sometimes things happen in your personal life that affect your studies. It can be helpful to let your lecturer/tutor know that you are going to submit an adverse circumstances application to keep them in the loop.

Remember: Lecturers Are People Too

Surprising, we know. But turns out, they didn’t start life out as a super smart lecturer. They know how hard university can be. So next time you’re feeling nervous about approaching your lecturer, remember they once stood exactly where you are now.