Navigating Bias in College: A Student's Guide to Handling Biased Professors

College is a time for personal growth, academic advancement, and building professional networks. However, many students encounter challenges they would rather avoid, such as dealing with a professor who appears to have a bias against them. While it can be a discouraging experience, there are strategies you can employ to navigate these situations. This article provides guidance on how to handle biased professors, including when to speak up and how to maintain your academic integrity.

Tactics for Handling Biased Professors

When facing a professor who displays bias, the approach you take largely depends on the context of the situation. In many cases, it might be best to focus on your studies and maintain your performance, rather than seeking immediate confrontation. If, for example, the professor consistently avoids calling on you during discussions, but your grades and understanding of the material remain strong, it may be more effective to forgo confrontation and continue with your work.

Steps to Take if Your Grades and Learning are Suffering

If your grades or your ability to learn are being affected by the professor's actions, it is wise to address the issue directly. However, it is crucial to approach the professor in a respectful and professional manner. Private communication, either in person or via email, is advisable. Avoiding phone calls can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure a more focused conversation. It is essential to be precise and provide specific examples to support your claims.

When speaking to the professor, you can use a statement such as:

“Prof. Smith, I am sorry to say this, but I honestly feel like I am not being given the attention I deserve in this class or that any student would deserve. I've noticed you rarely call on me in discussions, even when I have my hand up, whereas you called on Aidan and Brock several times yesterday. Additionally, you took off five points on my essay without explanation, and I believed you would provide a detailed explanation if more than four points were deducted.”

Being specific about incidents and avoiding accusatory language, such as "bias," is crucial. Words like bias, racism, or similar can escalate the situation and result in further complications. Focus on listing the exact incidents and situations that have led to your dissatisfaction.

Advantages of an In-Person or Email Conversation

Choosing to speak directly with the professor can offer several advantages. An in-person conversation allows for immediate clarification and potentially a candid discussion with both parties present. However, if in-person meetings are not possible, email remains a viable option. An email provides a record of the conversation, which can be useful if further action is required. Maintaining a professional tone and a respectful demeanor in your communication is essential.

When to Involve the College or Department

If you have exhausted your options and the situation with the professor does not improve, it may be necessary to involve the college's Ombudsman or the professor's departmental chair. These offices often have the resources and expertise to handle such situations effectively. Consulting your student handbook can help you find the appropriate office to contact.

Personal Battles in Academia

Some may criticize the "do nothing" approach outlined in the beginning of this article. However, it is worth considering that sometimes, despite the bias, it might be the easiest and most practical solution, especially if you are still performing well in the course. Balancing your academic success with the need to address biases is a delicate balance that each student must navigate.

Conclusion

Dealing with a biased professor can be challenging, but by following these strategies, you can maintain your academic integrity and potentially resolve the issue. Remember to approach the situation with respect and professionalism, and don’t hesitate to seek further assistance if needed. Navigating these challenges can be a valuable part of your college experience and can teach you how to handle difficult situations in the future.