Insider Tips

ATTEND YOUR PROFESSOR’S OFFICE HOURS. Honors professors love to meet with students, and this can give you a chance to discuss the course, topics, questions, concerns, and other material you find interesting. Even if you don't have anything specific to talk about, you can always stop by and say hi.

WHEN ADDRESSING YOUR INSTRUCTOR OR FACULTY MEMBERS, USE THEIR PROFESSIONAL TITLE: EITHER “PROFESSOR” OR “DOCTOR.” If they invite you to use their first name, then you can use that as well!

IF YOUR DEPARTMENT HOSTS EVENTS, ATTEND THEM! You can meet guest speakers, ask questions, or even volunteer to help. This can give you invaluable connections, or just new knowledge.

PRACTICE YOUR PITCH: Who are you? What do you want to do? What have you done? What are you capable of doing? This can be helpful when speaking to potential employers, professors, and colleagues. Even if you never use the pitch, it can help you align your goals and interests with your background and courses.

ADD YOUR FULL NAME AND PSU ID NUMBER TO YOUR EMAIL SIGNATURE , so professors and advisors know who you are and can find your information.

SPEAK WITH YOUR ADVISOR CONSISTENTLY. It is always a good idea to check in and make sure you are taking the right courses, completing your required credits, and graduating with the degree and opportunities you desire.

IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY TO START THINKING ABOUT YOUR THESIS. Spend some time thinking about what topic you’d like to focus on, and who would be the best advisor for your work.