Welcome to the wonderful world of a Sacramento State University education. One thing that separates the California State University system with that of the UC system is its emphasis on a traditional classroom environment, where classes are taught by professors as opposed to a teacher’s assistant while the professor is off doing research.

A CSU education fosters personal growth through critical thinking, writing and interpersonal communication. Because Sac State students come from all walks of life — different states, different countries, and different cultures — here are six friendly tips on how to make a great impression on your professor.

1. Know where and when your classes meet and how long it takes to get there. It sounds obvious, but the first day of class isn’t the strategic time to discover where your classes are — this must take place before the first day.

There is a campus map available on Page 20-21 of this Summer Issue, as well as in Lassen Hall and the Union. It would be to your benefit to mark out a map of your day and keep it in your backpack, just in case.

Punctuality is the key to success; knowing where you are supposed to be and being there on time is an invaluable skill. Students who routinely show up late do not build a good rapport with the professor.

2. Know the Professor’s name — in high school, you addressed most of your teachers as Mr. Smith or Ms. Jones. In college, most professors hold a doctorate in their discipline, and this requires that you address them as “Dr. Smith” or “Dr. Jones.” If they don’t hold a doctorate, you should address them as “Professor Smith” or “Professor Jones.”

Not sure if they have a doctorate? Call them “Doctor” and they’ll correct you if they prefer to be addressed differently.

And if the class meets in a large classroom, sit front and center — the teacher is likely to learn your face.

3. Be organized.- Know what you need (laptop computer, notebooks, writing instruments, tape recorders, textbooks, etc.) and have it ready to go before the lecture starts.

4. Maintain frequent eye contact with the professor.- The impression of attentiveness — even when it’s faked — will make the professor feel good.-

5. Ask questions.- A good professor will stop periodically to let students catch up and ask questions.- Take advantage of that time. Don’t try to show off by asking a question designed to demonstrate how much you know, because it’s almost certain to be less than you think.-Seek clarification if you’re confused — your fellow students who are too shy to ask will thank you later — and do ask about connections between what the professor is talking about and other things you may be learning.-

6. Go to the professor’s office hours, which are arguably the most underutilized tool available to students. This is your chance to get to know the professor a bit better. It also lets the professor get to know you, which is very important if you’re later going to ask for a letter of recommendation.

This is an easy and practical way to demonstrate your desire to master the course material.