[Fresia]

Things aren't going well in this one class this summer; it just keeps getting better and better, am really struggling this term. I sent an e-mail to the prof getting up the courage to ask two questions that had been concerning me about course material that I don't understand and then I mixed up vocabulary in the e-mail, making the questions rather mute. Whole new meaning to supposedly 'no stupid questions' HA! and then after screwing up my calculations in class today as well, feeling rather stupid and embarrassed. Trying to chalk it up to a bad day but several are attacking me at once, since this summer session started. Who knows if he'll even respond but what would you do when you saw him again next class? So embarrassed.

[Christina86]

Apologize and say you forgot to edit your email before you sent it. Being straightforward helps, if you can laugh it off a bit then that could also help. I hope that he's able to answer your questions though.

[Elana05]

... and don't forget you are always allowed to press "Reset" on any day. Sometimes I have to do it more than once...

[salukigirl]

I agree with honesty. A kid in my class was supposed to come by my office to take a make-up. Sat there 15 mins, a no show. I emailed him and he got back to me and was honest - told me he just completely forgot. I reward that kind of honesty more than the kid who told me he had pink eye but then showed up 2 days later with no redness/puffiness.....nada. Everyone is allowed to make mistakes. That's what college is for!!!

[thea_kronborg]

I've been a lecturer, and my husband is a professor, so let me tell you what they want from students: don't miss appointments (or give notice ahead of time). try to do the homework and reading before you ask questions. be specific about the question, don't just say "I don't get it."

but nobody minds students being wrong, or using the wrong terms, or having questions generally even if they are "stupid" questions. As long as you're making an effort, most instructors will bend over backwards to help you.

Also, I promise you, if your prof even remembers your email, as has had time to read it yet, he is not thinking how stupid you are. people who send email are expressing interest in the material, and the desire to understand it, and that's good. you don't need to feel embarrassed in class.

thea

[Fresia]

Thank you everyone!!! I have not missed an appointment and definitely will not. If only I had one of y'all as my prof, so understanding.

I sent an e-mail back expressing that I made a mistake and knowing the other calculation mistakes I have been making, I am missing something and would appreciate his help. I told him that I have contacted a tutor meanwhile but also asked him for an appointment in the interim to ask some questions (he does not have office hours) and when was a convenient time for him.

It is strange not having having an approachable prof, let alone so inaccessible; with it being two weeks now trying to find a tutor (in the summer session is an eternity); and struggling so with the material, my nerves are shot knowing how far behind I am getting.

Hopefully with the help, things will fall into place. My performance so far has not been stellar which is not helping my confidence. I am looking forward to meeting with the tutor tomorrow.

Thanks everyone!!!