How to ask for help

Asking your professor about:

• Course requirements: If you’re not sure about a course’s requirements—such as a paper, project, quizzes, or mid-term and final exams—you should ask.

• Grading: If you don’t know, ask your professor how he grades. For example, does class participation affect your grade and, if so, how significantly?

• How to write paper or do project: If you’re not sure how to do something—such as formatting—or what to include in your paper or other effort—such as original research, interviews, or graphics—ask your professor for guidance.

• How to apply coursework to career: If you’re interested in understanding how a course might fit into your career plans, you can discuss this topic with your professor before, during, or after his course.

Asking your classmates about:

• How to do something on campus: If you’re not sure how to use the gym, how to check out books from the library, how to reserve a conference room, how to obtain your student ID, or any other activity that interests or affects you, ask a classmate. Most Americans are happy to help international students with issues that require short answers.

• Where to find something off-campus: If you don’t know where to find a grocery store, dry cleaners, or dentist, you can ask a classmate. But, if you’re looking for help in finding something that’s more complicated—such as an immigration attorney—you may want to ask a university official.

• Getting help: If, once in a while, you have difficulty understanding a lecture or class instructions, you can ask a classmate for assistance. Some classmates will be willing and able to explain what you need to know. But, if you often have trouble understanding your professor, your classmates may not be willing to help you repeatedly. In such a case, you may need to ask your university to provide you with a tutor.

• Offering something in return: If someone helps you with something, you should thank this individual. If you’re lucky enough to find someone who often helps you, you should offer to do something for this person, such as teaching him Chinese or cooking a meal for him. Many Americans aren’t that patient toward or generous to international students. So, if you find such a person, show your appreciation.

Asking other Americans for help with:

• Communication: Is there a person who teaches communication workshops at your university? Is this individual especially friendly and helpful to international students? If you identify such a person, take advantage of this person’s generosity. But, be sure to thank this individual for his expertise and kindness.

• Cultural issues: If you have a classmate who’s studying Chinese or other language, this person might be both willing and interested in advising you on cultural concerns.

• Career advice: Of course, you’d seek such advice from your professors and the career counselors at your university placement office. If you meet middle-aged Americans who are or have been successful in their businesses or careers, you can also seek their views.