The Theme of Participation

As I make the transition from being a high school senior to a college student, I have found that the most significant key to success is participation. In reading “College Advice: Don’t Alienate Your Professor” I have learned that asking questions is a major part of participating. It guarantees that you fully understand the topic in front of you. Participating makes a person more memorable and leaves an impression on both the professor and the other student.

            In order to be successful in this, you must not be afraid to speak up in class even though you’re a freshman. The author says, “ignore the looks of scorn and amusement on the faces of the upperclassmen and -women; remember that next year you will be able to laugh at the mistakes and confusion of a new freshman class.” Everyone has been in the same position you are in now before. Everyone has been a wondering freshman at one point of their life so what your going through is normal! If you work hard in attempting to establish good relationships, excel in your course work and participate in class you will gain much more from your college experience. By putting the extra effort both in and out of class will benefit you tremendously. Even simply physically showing the professor that your engaged will allow them to see your participation. “Practice a look of genuine interest in the lecture or discussion, nod in agreement frequently, and nod in agreement frequently,” says the author.

            Participating in class also shows the professor that you are putting in the effort to think properly and deeply about the assignments. By having something meaningful to say also shows the professor that you understand the material. Participation takes initiative. It is up to you and nobody else to get involved. Distinguishing yourself from those around you comes with contributing to your education. In college, you teach yourself just as much as the professor does. It is important to have an active role in all that you do. At this point you have control over how much you gain from each and every class and assignment.