The Art of Negotiation: How to Win Over Your Profs and Score Better Grades

Non-stop study sessions and constant note-taking in class may seem like the best recipe for success in college, but lets be realistic - not everyone can give 100% of themselves every day of the semester. Sometimes we forget assignments, we bomb a test, or we even listen to the irresponsible voice in our heads that says, “Forget class, stay in and sleep!” Whatever your reason may be for finding yourself in a less than desirable academic situation never fear; there are a few ways that you can pull a Cher Horowitz (a la Clueless) and negotiate your way to better grades! 

Step 1: Go to Office Hours
Professors enjoy it when their students express interest in the subject matter of the class because it shows that they are listening to lectures. By showing up and putting in the extra half hour of work, your teachers will perceive you as someone who cares about their grades and in turn will think very highly of you. Although this will not automatically guarantee better grades, it will give you some brownie points if you fail a test or miss a reading quiz. A professor might be more inclined for offer you extra credit or to redo an assignment if he or she knows that you have been trying your best the entire semester. In addition to showcasing your desire to do better, office hours also give you an opportunity to chat with your instructors outside of the classroom. This will allow both of you to establish a more personal relationship, which could be useful when asking for a job or grad school recommendation. 

Step 2: Dispute a Grade like a First Class Attorney
There have been times when I thought I had written the best paper of my life but it was ripped apart by a professor. When this happens, I immediately go on the defensive and think, “this guy is an idiot!” You might think that your professor is being ridiculous, but the truth is that you may just have different perspectives. Make an appointment to meet with your teacher to go over your assignment. Prepare for your meeting by making a list of the aspects of the paper you felt were great but he or she may have marked as being “unclear” or “off topic”. Then, think about why you feel those parts make sense and bring your arguments with you to the meeting. If you are organized and concise, you may be able to argue your point in a way that allows the professor to see where you are coming from. If your professor does not offer you a better grade, at least ask him or her to clearly explain their thought process in grading your paper. Even though you didn’t get a better grade this time, you will know what the professor is looking for and can apply that to the next assignment. 

Step 3: Be Assertive!
Sometimes professors will play favorites and offer extra credit to the students who are trying the hardest but can’t seem to do well. Extra credit is a privilege, so professors may not be willing to offer it to the whole class because not everyone deserves it (a.k.a. the kids who never come to class or do the readings). If you really feel as though your grades are suffering, stay a few minutes after lecture and explain to your professor in private that you would be willing to do an extra paper or attend an additional lecture for extra credit. A great way to work in an extra credit opportunity is if you go to a school that hosts lots of speakers on campus. Often times, a professor will offer extra credit if you attend one of these events and write a summary on it.  Just remember, there is no harm in being honest and asking a professor if there is anything you could possibly to do boost your grade. You might leave empty-handed, but at least you know you did everything you could.

-- By Stephanie Vacchio