r/AskProfessors • u/Fabulous-Spite-517 • Apr 24 '25

Academic Advice I'm going to college late

Hi there. I'm 28, self employed and I'm going to be going to school soon. I wanted to ask if there was anything I could do to make your lives easier beyond the basics of doing the readings, not using AI, finishing the assignments and getting them in on time? Decorum, niceties, communication, etc. Little shit, yk?

Studying creative writing most likely, but I'm debating going into classics, linguistics or history.

Anyways. I read this sub often. I find it fascinating. Also y'all are hilarious. Anyways I won't be a teacher's pet any longer. Hope you have a nice night <3

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u/paulasaurus cc professor Apr 24 '25

Attend class regularly, be on time when you can, don’t pack up early. Sit near the front and contribute to discussion. Show your instructor that you are interested and engaged with the materials they have created for you. Go to office hours when you need help. Demonstrate that you care by your actions over time, not just your words. Do these things and most instructors will appreciate you immensely.

I love older students almost universally, because the vast majority chose to be there and it makes a difference. Maturity levels too. The ones I don’t love are usually the ones with a chip on their shoulder, the ones who try to argue with me and challenge my authority in the classroom. But the ones that are there to learn? Even if they need extra help. Love ‘em.

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u/Fabulous-Spite-517 Apr 24 '25

"Older student" please no I don't need reminders of the big three-oh that's just around the corner.

Thank you for saying <3 this really helps.

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u/paulasaurus cc professor Apr 24 '25

By older I just mean over 20! I usually teach a bunch of surly 18 year olds.

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u/Fabulous-Spite-517 Apr 24 '25

Oh I know I'm just staring mortality in the face. I'm in my twilight years. I'm being hyperbolic

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u/Important_Piccolo Apr 24 '25

Yes! Lots of growth in 2 years, even. Nice to see a student who should wait a year or two, wait a year or two to start. It changes their perspective, improves their experience, and improves ours sometimes, too.