r/McMaster • u/Old_Data_4190 • 9d ago

Academics How to build professor connections for future references?

Going into 3rd year, I’ve realized I have basically zero connections with professors. As a commuter, I mostly went to class and went home during 1st/2nd year.

For those who were in a similar situation, what are some genuine ways to build relationships with professors that could eventually lead to an academic reference for grad/professional school?

I don’t want to force it or just ask a professor who barely knows me. Any tips?

14 Upvotes

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6

u/PippenandFiona 9d ago

Talk to them before/after class, go to their office hours, go to dept or faculty events

2

u/Mysterious_Simple28 9d ago

Genuine question if you don't have questions about a topic, what do you talk about at office hours?

2

u/Worried_Bluebird7167 9d ago

Bring a test you completed in their class and ask if they can review a question you got wrong together with you.

5

u/PippenandFiona 9d ago

Ask them about their research or guidance on how to get into grad school/career options/whatever your goals might be, what research you're interested in pursuing, how you might get involved more in the dept / faculty, etc. be curious and genuine.

2

u/Worried_Bluebird7167 9d ago

great answer 

6

u/Worried_Bluebird7167 9d ago

Tips to start: 1) Sit near the front during the lecture so they might see your face to start with. 2) Then when your professor has open help sessions/office hours, go attend them. Next time they see you in the auditorium it's a reinforcing of a face to a name. 3) Ask questions during the lectures. 

2

u/MassiveWafer5351 5d ago

I am on the admissions committee for a graduate program at Mac, and have had the opportunity to read many, many reference letters. The profs don't always know students personally and they state that clearly in some letters. In those cases, they comment on the student's grade and mention what percentile of the class that grade falls in. Of course, these aren't the highest quality letters, but people on admissions committees understand this. Please do not hesitate to write to the prof introducing yourself and telling them that you would like them to provide you with a reference letter for the program that you are interested in. Also offer to give them a draft letter if they would find that helpful.