Is it normal that in my past 2 years, I haven't gotten to know any of my professors (or, I guess, haven't had the chance to let my professors to get to know me). I know academic references are important when it comes to grad school applications, but in large class sizes, I usually just end up directing my questions, thoughts, etc. at the TAs.

Will it be easier to get to know my profs in third and fourth year, or am I doing something wrong?

classes tend to get a lot smaller in upper years so it will be easier to interact with profs. you aren't doing anything wrong, but if you are really interested in getting to know profs, dont be afraid to approach them after class and during office hours.

Originally Posted by SweetyTweety

Is it normal that in my past 2 years, I haven't gotten to know any of my professors (or, I guess, haven't had the chance to let my professors to get to know me). I know academic references are important when it comes to grad school applications, but in large class sizes, I usually just end up directing my questions, thoughts, etc. at the TAs.

Will it be easier to get to know my profs in third and fourth year, or am I doing something wrong?

I didn't really get to know any profs until my last year. Office hours is one way to do it, but participating in your smaller classes (ie seminars) will also do it. Some profs teach large-ish classes but really do want to get to know their students - try to participate in lecture and they'll get to know you by face and sometimes even by name. But yes, it really does become a lot easier in upper years. Your upper years are a lot more relevant for grad admissions anyway.

I think you should definitely make an effort to be more vocal in class so they start to recognize you by your face, and then start visiting them during office hours. I've conversed with my profs in their office since my first year and many of them know my name now. They even stop to talk to me in the halls. Yes, it's great for grad school references, but it's also good because they can help you get into classes you want. 4th year seminars are small and it helps to have the prof know you so you ensure you get the class you want. On a larger scale, it's good to be recognized in the years after you leave university. The academic world is small, so it's good to "know people."

I emailed a professor and asked her out for coffee. I told her I wanted to learn and hear more about her experience with child medical care. I ended up emailing her more whenever I had a question about career choices. In the end, she also wrote me a reference letter.

You don't have to get to know professors just in class or about what they are teaching. Just email them and express interest in a field and that you would like to get a professional opinion on things and learn more about their experiences.

Excel in the class and be vocal about you doing really well in class and during office hours. Another good thing to do is to join clubs and take leadership positions that let you have contact with professors and invite them to events, that is a very effective way to get them to write reference letters.

Most profs actually like it when students come to ask relevant questions during their office hours - it shows that people care about what they're saying. So use the time they are giving you to do that. I've often asked professors for some suggested further reading on topics they've covered in class.

I know some departments also have committees for planning events, hiring, etc. that need undergrad representatives so ask around about that for yours!