Academically Advocating For Yourself

Throughout your Tech years, you will get better and better at being vocal when it comes to academics. Simple acts like asking your teacher to explain a question, going to office hours to ask them how to best study for the test, or asking your teacher about a grade that you disagree with are all important skills that put you at an advantage academically.

Make sure to check the grading every time you receive a test. Sometimes, grading can be very arbitrary, and even though your teacher may have a very good rationale for giving you the grade you received, it is okay to still bring it up to them! However, I can not stress this enough: always be respectful and open-minded in your approach. You must have a good explanation for why you believe you deserve points where points have been taken off. This is different from an excuse. Good explanations must be substantive, and not arrogant or whiny.

Another way to always academically advocate for yourself is by asking for extensions and extra credit whenever you need it. Do you know what happens when they say no? Nothing. It’s a win-win to ask because 1) your dreams of an extension might come true, or 2) your teachers say no but they will see you in a good light due to your proactiveness. When it comes to asking for extensions or extra credit, don’t overkill it. Be reasonable. Ask once in a while, not frequently. And ask before the deadline, not the day of.

Lastly, and perhaps the most important way to advocate for yourself, always ask for clarification during lessons. Don’t be nervous about sounding “stupid,” because the truth is, if you have a question, other students have the same question. And don’t be nervous about asking too many questions. Not only is it the teacher’s job to teach, but they will appreciate the questions since it allows them to get a gist of the class’s understanding.

Let’s say you’ve tried all of these things. You’ve been reasonable and you’ve been respectable. However, your teacher refuses to extend a deadline despite your legitimate excuse, or your teacher makes you feel bad for asking questions. In that case, give a more in-depth explanation to your teacher, if possible. Let them know if you have to take care of siblings or you have other duties around your household. It is 100% valid and they should know. If your teacher still isn’t being respectful of you, email the AP of the specific subject. Explain the situation in detail and the AP should help you resolve the problem.

We hope you excel academically this year. Don’t take your education for granted :)

By: Tracy Chen and Nasida Meher