Lyndsay Maas on Connecting With Students as a University Professor

Regardless of where you are in your college career, having solid relationships with professors and students is very important for your future success.

Solid relationships with your professors can help improve your academic performance and make you more successful in your future career. For instance, it can help you perform well in class. In addition, professors can become advocates for their students.

Although it can be intimidating to start getting to know your professors, the truth is that most of them are very fond of students who take the initiative. There are also several tips that you can use to build strong relationships with your professors.

Successful Academic Achievements

Education Week claims that having a positive relationship with your teachers can help improve academic performance. An analysis of 46 studies revealed that having a solid relationship with one’s professors can significantly impact a student’s academic success. Getting to know your professors can also make your schedule easier, allowing you to ask for individual instruction and get feedback on your strengths and weaknesses.

Fostering Support and Encouragement

In addition, colleges and universities can do a better job of supporting and encouraging their faculty members who are dedicated to connecting with students. This can help them set goals and improve their professional performance. College staff and faculty members should also have the opportunity to meet alums and develop unique curriculum pathways.

Professional and Personal Development Benefits

One of the best ways to improve your professional and interpersonal skills is by getting to know your professors. For instance, if you’re shy, scheduling a meeting with one of your professors can help you overcome anxiety. In addition, participating in class can help you improve your public speaking skills.

Being able to demonstrate your abilities and talents could lead to professional opportunities. Also, professors have the necessary experience to help you succeed in your future career. Many of them have worked in the professional field for a decade or more before entering academia, which gives them a wealth of knowledge.

Essential Feedback for Professors

By connecting with professors, many students felt comfortable suggesting ways that instructors could enhance their connection with their students. One of the most popular suggestions was to show excitement about their teaching. According to the students, they enjoyed learning from instructors who were passionate about their work.

To create an environment conducive to learning, students suggested ensuring that instructors can set an open and inviting tone. One of the most effective ways to do this is surveying during the first day of class. This allows students to share their concerns with the instructor. Another popular suggestion is to ensure that instructors are available outside the classroom to provide additional communication methods.

ABOUT LYNDSAY MAAS

Before this, however, she spent years focused on her own education. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Business Management from Antioch University, followed by a Master of Business Administration from California State University Channel Islands. Additionally, she took several accounting and general education courses from Santa Barbara City College. Early in her career, Lyndsay put her business knowledge to work in the private sector, operating in a few different analyst and treasury positions in the Santa Barbara, CA, area.

One of Lyndsay Maas’ first professional positions was working as an Operations Analyst for Santa Barbara Alpha Strategies. In that position, Lyndsay tracked and analyzed an investment portfolio worth $300 million. She developed many critical financial skills in this position, juggling complex spreadsheets and opening accounts for new hedge funds. Eventually, she transitioned to work as a Controller and Treasurer for Imerys Filtration Minerals, Inc. This allowed her to stretch her financial skills further, as she was entirely responsible for managing the company’s financial operations. She managed several direct reports and critical banking relationships.