While drinking my SoBe at the West Campus cafeteria, a group of film students occupied the table next to mine. After a bit of shuffling to get coffee, they settled to talk about the course. Actually, the professor did.

It wasn’t just a flock of film students eating after an insightful class; this was an insightful class. The professor led off with the syllabus and his expectations, the typical commencements in a new semester, all in the middle of a patio deck.

I sat and wondered if such a thing was possible in my communications class until I realized I had a tea bag in my hand.

Why? Because my communications teacher was prompting us to visit her during her office hours and in which we could have a cup of tea.

We all have the ability to meet with our teachers one-on-one, maybe not on the patio deck overlooking the harbor, but we can at least look forward to a cup of tea, can of coke or bottle of water in their office.

How often do students go visit the teachers during office hours? (Not counting the first week staking it out to be added to a class). It can’t be that often if professors are constantly reminding us that the office hours are open for a reason.

Why don’t we visit as frequently as we should?

Intimidation may be one of the main factors of why it is highly avoided, but to break down that barrier, visiting them outside of class would help.

By peeking inside their office, you maybe able to appreciate them as an individual. You may be a little less fearful to ask a question if you discover they have a passion for rock climbing or that they are obsessed with their dog.

Giving a personal quality to the professor helps and maybe it can convince you that they aren’t out to get you.

Indifference may be another reason why students don’t utilize the office hours. They might not care enough about the subject to bother putting in much effort. Indifference to the course work may lead to indifference to your grade and lack of effort in class. By meeting with your professor, it might get you interested in the course and help you relate the course to real world experiences.

City College is known for the laid-back attitude and distinguished courses offered on campus. We have an intimate setting unlike some of the larger colleges in the area with 100 plus students in the classroom so we should make use of it.

By building a relationship with our teacher we have a better chance of understanding the material and will be less likely to hesitate about asking questions.

So you may not see a communications or math class being held on the grassy hills but you can still get that one-on-one help you need with your professor.

Maybe if you requested, they might make some time to join you for a chat outside in the Santa Barbara sunlight.