It’s been a rough semester for some students, myself included. Midterms are making their way and all I want to do is sleep, but you do what you need to do to get through the day. Earlier this week one of my professors said something to the class that really stuck with me. At the end of class, she said, “Remember, we are here for you. We, as professors, want you to succeed. Go grab a pizza, maybe some beer and go study with your friends.”
Professors are not the scary figures our high school teachers taught us to fear. Every professor I have had at Stephen F. Austin has always encouraged their students to try their hardest. The professors are not setting us up to watch us fail miserably. The university does its best to give each student what they need to succeed in getting their degree.
For example:
Every professor has office hours where if you have any questions or need any help, your professor will be there to talk to you and go over whatever topics need more attention.
We have the AARC, an area with study tables where students can come and go to get the help they need in certain subjects. This even includes a website where you can turn in your essay to have a fresh pair of eyes check out your grammar and structure.
Kassandra Avilez at the front desk at the AARC. Photo by Andrea Gallier.
SI Instructors and tutors who stay long after school is over to help students understand the information that was taught by the professor that week.
The Library and even dorm rooms have areas where people can have group studies, or even a quiet area where you can study in peace without people talking.
The university and the professors here at SFA are not waiting for you to fail so they can go laugh maniacally in their offices. They want to be there for you (Cue the Friends Theme Song) to help you thrive.
I am writing this not only to educate the students, but as a senior to say thank you to all of the professors who have been there for me. They are some of the people who have helped me grow at SFA, and I will be forever thankful.