With their subject matter expertise, networks of contacts, and ability to serve as mentors, professors are great resources and references! And having a personal connection keeps you accountable, motivated, and on track for success.

Office hours refers to scheduled times when students can drop in to talk with professors. Professors might hold classic office hours, or they might change it up, like by holding virtual office hours or scheduling appointments instead of drop-in times.

The idea of going to office hours can feel intimidating at first. But there are lots of reasons to go! Professors can

• help you with course concepts and assignments
• become mentors and advocates
• write recommendation letters for jobs, internships, or grad school
• help build your network 

Professors are expected to make time for students, so don’t be shy about using any/all of the options available to you. Check your syllabi to learn what those options are. And if existing options don’t work for you, reach out to the professor and find alternatives. 

Not ready for office hours? Start with small steps: introduce yourself, say hi, participate during class, or ask questions during or after class.