Classroom Etiquette
Should you use your phone while in class?
No. Talking on the phone, answering a phone call, texting, or using your phone in any any way is disrespectful, inappropriate, and distracting to others around you. Put your phone on silent and keep it in your bag or pocket.
What is a syllabus?
Your syllabus is designed to answer common questions your professor might anticipate you will have throughout the semester. Professors not only outline important days but they break downgrading and class policies. Sometime reading assignments and papers are also outlined in the syllabus. Be sure to read the syllabus, it is important!
What else can I do here other go to class all the time?
Academic aren’t everything. In the U.S., students are expected to be involved in extracurricular activities. Outside of your studies, you could be part of cultural or professional clubs, or participate in athletics or the arts. Why? Your grades are just one part of your experience, and the other level is one that involves networking and making friends.
If you are sick and cannot make it to class, what should you do?
If you feel like you are getting sick, do not hesitate to notify your professor as soon as possible if you can’t make it to class. Telling them ahead of time makes it possible to receive class notes or presentations before you meet again and have your absence excused.
How old do you have to be to drink alcohol in the U.S.?
If you are 21 years or older and would like to have an alcoholic beverage, you will be asked to show your I.D. So bring your I.D./passport everywhere.
If you are tired in class should you lay your head down and take nap?
No. Taking a nap or falling asleep in class is never a good idea. This is inappropriate behavior.
So, you have a presentation in class, should you prepare for this presentation the night before?
Presentations are very popular projects in the United States. Prepare for presentations ahead of time and make sure to familiarize yourself with what you will say. Especially if English is not your first language, the more you practice ahead of time the better you will succeed.
What does it mean to "network" with your fellow students?
"Network" means to make connections. Meet your fellow classmates. Make friends. No matter how big the class is, take advantage of the opportunity to exchange phone numbers and emails with classmates.
If you are confused about a class lecture or an assignment, what should you do?
If you are confused about a lecture or lesson, show up to office hours and speak to your professor. Talking to your professor is encouraged.
Every college student should be aware of their professor’s office hours, which is the time and place to ask more personal questions concerning lectures or your grade in the class. Professors are eager to discuss any questions or concerns you have on a lecture or ways to improve your grade in the course.
Do you know what #MeToo refers to?
#MeToo is a movement against sexual harassment and sexual assault. If you try to harass or otherwise victimize women here, it will not be tolerated.
FOR EVERYONE: If you are a harassed or assaulted, in any way, report it immediately. Always.
If you have a class at 3:30 p.m., what time should you arrive?
Americans are on time for class. While a lot of cultures are more laidback, professors are much less understanding of this in U.S. schools. In the U.S. if you are on time you are late. Arrive to class at between 5-10 minutes early. Always be on time to class and any meetings that you may go to.
What is homework?
Yes. Homework are assignments that are given to you by the professor to complete before the next class. Always make sure you write important dates down in your notebook or calendar. Timeliness is one of the most important factors to succeed as a college student in the United States. And this means any assignments, like reading or writing papers, are due on specific dates. Speak to your professors if you are uncertain about when homework in due.
If you are tired and not feeling up to going to class, should you skip?
Some students may not show up at every single class, or even to stay for an entire lecture. But, just because you can avoid and skip classes, doesn’t mean you should!
Remember, the importance of your grades and Grade Point Average (GPA – an average score based on the grades and results of every class you’ve taken during your studies) can’t be overstated.
The key is to find the right balance between your studies and enjoying campus life.
If you are stuck or confused or lost, can you ask for help?
You do not need to know everything, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. Never be afraid to raise your hand or ask for clarification when you don’t quite understand something. In the U.S. asking professors for help is common and not looked down upon.That extends beyond the classroom too. While it is important to familiarize yourself with your campus, higher education is meant to be a time to learn and explore as a community. It is helpful to remember that a lot of the other students on campus are also likely to be away from home and are adjusting to a new place too.
How can I find out what's happening on campus?
WhatsApp and Facebook and SnapChat and other social media platforms are vital. Many students will use social media to communicate events, gatherings or just to chat. Ask around about what apps are used the most and use them. But not during class!
If you are late to class, how should you enter the classroom?
It is okay if you are occasionally late to class. If you are late to class, be sure to enter the classroom quietly so as not to disrupt the professor and students.
What is a group project?
As an international college student, you will more often than not have the opportunity to work with individuals in a group project, it is important to understand that everyone has personal responsibilities to complete the project. Don’t be afraid to ask a question! Let other members of your team know if you have any doubts concerning your responsibilities in the group. And be sure you write down any deadlines for the project, the expectation is that all members of the group will work equally to contribute to the assignment.
What do I do if I am feeling homesick?
Homesickness is very normal. When you do, try to find a way to eat food at home. Look for a special grocery store that carries foods from your country, or a restaurant that serves food your mother made.
Find an activity that makes you happy and do it! If you played a sport at home, find a group that gets together to do this. If you played an instrument, bring it along and play it regularly. It’s crucial that you do something besides study!
If you are having trouble finding these activities, ask for help. ISO can put you into contact with the right people. You are more than schoolwork!
Can I turn an assignment in late?
Always speak with your professor. You may be able to turn in an assignment late, like a research paper for instance, but you must speak with your professor first, and preferably not the night before the assignment is due.
If you receive an invitation to attend an event, when should I arrive?
Unlike the classroom, being invited to an informal gathering, like a party or celebration with friends, the custom is to be "fashionably late." Being fashionably late is a little more complicated. In the case of informal, social events such as an open house, arriving a little late (15-30 minutes) is considered normal. However, if you have a reservation or a ceremony to attend, or a meeting with a professor or classmates, always show up early.
When the professor asks a question in class, should you answer the question?
Yes. American classrooms rely on student participation, be prepared to talk. Professors love when you raise your hand in class. In an American university classroom, it is much more likely that a student will be expected to participate by talking about their ideas and engaging in conversation. Class participation will also be part of your grade, so be prepared to speak in class.
When you are finished writing a paper, what should you do next?
When you are finished writing a paper, have a friend read it, or ask your professor to look over it. Making even the slightest error with citations, grammar, or essay structure can be an instant fail, so make sure you check and double-check all the work that you submit.
Where are the best places to study besides my dorm room?
There are plenty of places to study on campus, the library is the best place. Take the time to get to know the library. They offer lots of academic support and quiet places to study.
How often should I check my Detroit Mercy email account?
Everyday! Professors will use email services to not only inform you about upcoming assignments but present information relevant to the course such as extensions and canceling class.
How should women be treated in the U.S.?
Women in the U.S. have come a long way in acquiring a status equal to men, and many hold positions of leadership. Remember that showing courtesy and acting patronizing (superior) or disrespectful toward women are two very different things. Treating any woman disrespectfully, let alone one in a position of authority or prominence, can lead to a great deal of trouble.