Want to Build Relationships with Lecturers? But Afraid? Read this!

Student and Lecturer Illustration (Created with Canva)

Some students, of course, still think that a lecturer is a figure who only appears during class, gives assignments, and gives grades. In fact, if you are close to a lecturer, there are many benefits that can have an impact on your academic and career journey, from competition information, research, final project supervisors, to connections to the professional world. The question is, how do you build a good and professional relationship with your lecturer? This article will try to summarize the effective steps that can be taken!

1. Show Enthusiasm and Activeness in the Classroom

The first and most basic step in building a good relationship with your lecturer is to be an active student in class. Being an active student in class does not mean that you must always ask questions in every meeting and never skip class, but rather:

• Listen to the lecturer's explanation with attention.
• Ask relevant questions.
• Respond during discussions.
• Show curiosity, not just chasing grades.

This way the lecturer will usually remember students who show interest in the course.

2. Use Good Communication Etiquette

When communicating with lecturers either directly, or via chat or email try to always use polite and professional language. Write your intentions clearly, not in abbreviated words, but also not long-winded. A little etiquette like this shows professionalism and respect.   

Also read: Submitting a Thesis Title Once is Immediately Approved? This is The Strategy!

3. Get Involved in a Lecturer's Project or Research

One of the best ways to build long-term relationships is to get involved in lecturers' projects. For example:

• Being a research assistant.
• Assisting in community service activities.
• Become a committee member of an academic event that the lecturer is supervising.

This can open up wider collaboration opportunities, and even become a recommendation for scholarships or internships!

4. Keep Professional Interactions Outside of Class

A healthy relationship doesn't mean you have to be personally close. Maintain boundaries and etiquette in every interaction:

•  Avoid irrelevant small talk.
• Don't text outside of reasonable hours, unless it's important.
• Be polite on social media if connected
• Professionalism will make you valued as an academic colleague, not just a student.

Building professional relationships with lecturers is not about getting face time-it's part of building a healthy and respectful academic network. Lecturers can be mentors, scholarship openers, and even career connections. So, don't hesitate to start building good relationships early on, with an active, polite, and initiative attitude.

Ready to start opening doors to academic relationships today?

You can also watch a video on how to meet your supervisor on the @SalamCerdas channel below!