Case 3: Uh-Oh, Missed Memo
You get to class one day and realize you missed a homework memo. Everyone is handing in a paper that you had no idea was due that day. Or, the professor is handing out an exam that you thought was the following week.
Be honest—According to Professor Tate, “you have to talk to the professor and say, ‘I screwed up, I missed the message, I’m not prepared,’ and just see what they say… then at least you’ve been honest with them, and they may take that into consideration when they write your final grade.”
Professors are people too—They realize that life happens. “Most people teaching freshman classes have agreed to do it,” comments Professor Tate. “They haven’t been assigned because they are being punished or bad teachers. Most of us want to teach undergraduates.” Professors realize the adjustment period that freshmen have to go through. “The freshman just see the professors as people who hand out grades…and that’s stupid.” Talk to your professor, and he or she may cut you some slack and give you an extension.
