by Professor James Elser, ASU Parents Association's 2009 Professor of the Year
The ASU Parents Association Professor of the Year is an endowed professorship that honors those who best exemplify a passion for teaching and who excel in both undergraduate teaching and in their area of research and/or creative activity. Visit asu.edu/PTY for more information.
When I was recognized as this year's Professor of the Year in April, I was dumbfounded. That evening, I met several other professors, learning about what they bring to ASU. While the announcement punctuated my evening in an unexpected way, it was really the dedicated teachers I was impressed with. As a parent of a college student myself, I like to know my child is in good hands.
For 19 years, I've consistently taught the big nonmajors biology course, which many students take to fulfill their lab-science requirement. Most of them are not particularly interested in the subject, at least in the beginning. I choose to teach this class because, as a scientist, I need to educate people about the amazing possibilities of science. Without an understanding of science, no one would support research. Advances would stall.
Over the years, I've received much feedback — positive and negative. From this, I feel that I can offer some advice to students and parents about what it takes to succeed in college, especially at an exciting, large research university like ASU. Taking my practical advice is only the beginning. No matter what your student is passionate about, there is a world of opportunity for them to engage in at ASU. We'll continue to help them be successful for as long as they're interested.
tips for college success
tip #1 – Get to know your professor.
In large classes especially, it's easy to believe that individual students don't matter. This is untrue. I invite students to engage with me after class — especially at office hours. Surprisingly, the bigger the class, the less office hours are utilized. Give it a try. You'll discover fast that we are people, too. We just also happen to know a whole lot about a subject.
tip #2 – Bring your mind to the game.
Many comments on my evaluations mention boredom; "I was happy to find that science isn't boring." While many of my students have to take this class, it doesn't mean they shouldn't try and like it, too. As a college student, your job is to get into the material. You will experience many teaching styles, but one key to success is getting your mind off the style and on the subject.
tip #3 – College professors are not disciplinary figures.
Professors are not interested in policing your life. Our role is to engage you in a subject and then help you succeed in mastering it. We only have 50 minutes, three times a week, to accomplish this, so help us do that by taking ownership of your education.
tip #4 – Take advantage of your professors' expertise.
College professors are primary practitioners of their disciplines. At ASU, we have international experts in their fields teaching students. As long as you're paying for your education, take advantage of the wealth of cutting-edge knowledge professors have gathered and generated in our years of study. What's more, if you're really enthralled by a subject, engage in research. This opportunity is only found at research universities.