Your lecturers aren't just there to teach you and hand out assignments.
Think about it: these individuals have walked the same college halls years before you. They've encountered all types of students—both the amazing and crappy ones.
They know what traits lead to success.
But there's more. Your lecturers aren't just stuck in classroom; they currently live in the post-graduation world. They've seen the challenges students face once they leave college and during college—they can offer insights that are beyond your experience.
The Bubble of College Life
As students, we often live in a bubble of excitement. It's our first time in college, and everything feels new. But this bubble can also trap us, making us unaware of the broader realities outside campus life. It's like believing the earth is flat until you go deeper into space and see otherwise.
Why struggle blindly through college when you have access to "real" academic professionals who can lend you a sip of their wisdom? Yet, many of us avoid tapping into this resource. Why? Perhaps it feels "uncool" or "old school" to approach lecturers. You might think only the "nerdy" students do that, and you'd rather figure things out on your own.
That's fine if you want to live in default mode, relying solely on peer opinions or your limited view of what seems right. But if you're ready to switch to control mode, where your actions are guided by wisdom from seasoned professionals who've seen it all, your lecturers can be your secret weapon.
Why Build Relationships with Your Lecturers?
Your lecturers have the benefit of experience—they've seen countless students succeed and fail, and they know the common pitfalls. Building a relationship with them can:
Help you avoid unnecessary mistakes.
Open your eyes to hidden opportunities.
Equip you with guidance tailored to your specific goals.
In college, you're typically assigned an academic supervisor, which can be a great starting point. But don't limit yourself to just one mentor. If you admire a lecturer or think someone could guide you in a specific area, take the initiative. No lecturer will turn away a genuinely curious and hardworking student seeking mentorship.
