How does a students personality affect grades?
I have a professor that definitely doesn’t like me. He’s always curt, very short, and rude to me, but nice and helpful to pretty much everyone else in the class. I’m a naturally quiet and “grumpy” person (not really grumpy just stoic) so I think that might play a part in it. Anyway, I tried being more friendly and smiley, but it didn’t really work and he still gives one word answers and is always annoyed to talk to me, but he’s very gregarious and nice with everyone else. The last class before the final he said “thank you for being such a great student” to a few stragglers, but he just walked past me and totally ignored me. This class is pretty subjective and I get pretty meh grades on essays, but every time I asked for tips he would just say “the rubric is posted online”. I guess what I’m trying to ask is do you think it’s in a students best interest to pretend to be fun, excited, and happy in order to develop a decent relationship with the professor? Do professors generally take a disliking towards more introverted and less emotional (outwardly) types?
Navigating the complexities of professor-student relationships can be challenging, especially if a student’s personality clashes with their educator’s expectations. When students are introverted or less expressive, they may face biases that affect their academic evaluations. Research indicates that personality traits significantly influence teaching effectiveness and student engagement. For example, extraverted students often feel more comfortable participating in class discussions, which can lead to better impressions and relationships with professors. Conversely, students who come across as more reserved might struggle to communicate their needs or showcase their understanding of the material. This can be particularly frustrating when a professor is perceived as biased or unapproachable. Effective strategies for improving these relationships include seeking feedback actively, attending office hours, and developing communication skills that align with the professor's expectations. Moreover, students should consider adapting their approach to maintain authenticity while also connecting with their instructors. For instance, practicing a friendly demeanor in class interactions can ease tensions and create a collaborative environment. Research emphasizes that relationship-building is critical; studies reveal that students who foster positive rapport with professors often experience enhanced academic outcomes. Therefore, it’s essential for students to reflect on their personality traits and actively engage in constructive dialogues to develop beneficial academic relationships.
Typically, if a professor really and truly doesn't like you and your work merits a better grade, you can always apply to the Dean. Otherwise just know enough to avoid that professor in the future.