College Success Tip # 10

I'm pretty sure a lot of individuals have heard or even recited this quote below from Zig Ziglar:

" It is not your aptitude but your ATTITUDE that determines your altitude in life"

During my rebellious teen years, my Father said this to me quite often. This saying was even on a banner in my middle school cafeteria that I occasionally looked at and heard my father's voice in my head. But as I matured and understood the true meaning of this statement, one would be surprised how your attitude truly affects your educational journey and ultimate academic destination.

I've had my share of university coursework from undergrad and graduate levels. I've also had my share in teaching higher education courses. As a professor I totally agree that one's attitude definitely plays a vital part in their altitude.

Many college students must understand that issues will happen in college that are unfortunate, and there are proper solutions to handling problems in your college courses. One day you could have a disagreement with your professor regarding their assignment overload, grading practices, teaching techniques, or lack of communication. A teacher could even give you a grade on an assignment, that is incorrect and refuse to correct it. What do you do?

The first initial response would be to tell the instructor how you feel by using a few choice words, but that might not be the best choice. Remember how you approach the disagreement will determine your altitude, and your success in the course so make sure that your attitude is neutral and respectful.

Below is a list of things NOT to do when you have a disagreement with an instructor:

* Raise your voice at the instructor

* Yell obscenities that you wouldn't want your Grandparents or Pastor to hear you say

* Disrespect your instructor/advisor

* Speak negatively about your instructor/advisor to other students & professors

* Contact the college/university president regarding an issue that can be resolved with your professor or academic dean.

* Send disrespectful emails to your professor

* Yell outbursts during class

* Initiate physical contact

* Start rumors

What one should consider implementing when a disagreement arises between instructor and student:

* Approach the situation in a calm matter

* Check your attitude

* Schedule a meeting with the instructor outside of the classroom. If you are unable to schedule a meeting, make sure to converse with your instructor alone, don't seek an audience.

* Check the tone of emails before sending

* Wait 24 hours before addressing a matter to give yourself time to cool down

* Leave emotions out and focus on the issue as well as resolution

These are a few tips that will help students no matter what leg you are on in your higher education journey.

If an issue can not be resolved between the teacher and you have followed the policies and procedures in regards to speaking to them then contact your academic advisor, or department chair for further support.

Giving you something to think about,

Dr. Bryant