Michael Milone, PhD
Educational Consultant, Research Psychologist, and Writer
While in college, try to be aware of potential mistakes-in-the-making. For example, if you try to cram too many things into your schedule, you might end up late for a lab. The teacher will glare at you, as might your lab partner. If you are smart, you will apologize to both of them and never be late again. You might also learn that it makes sense to leave enough time so that you get to where you should be on time. Now, if you make it a habit to be late for this lab or this teacher, you will get yourself in a bind. Your grade will probably be lower, and if the teacher is rigorous about grading, you might not pass the class. You will have to explain to your friends and family why you failed the course, and you will have to take the same course or another one to make up the grade. You might even end up spending an extra semester in college, which could cost a lot of money. All of this happened because you didn’t learn from a little mistake and made it again and again.
If you’re worried about having a good experience with your professors, check out our article How to Build a Better Relationships With Your Teachers.