The relationships students have with faculty vary depending on individual faculty members and the context in which the student gets to know them. For example, even the friendliest professor will rarely get to know undergraduate students in a large lecture class. As younger students who are less advanced in their studies, undergraduate students do not have the same amount and level of interaction with the faculty as graduate students.

Graduate students are usually in smaller classes. Due to their advanced study, background, and research, graduate students tend to have more in common with faculty and may get to know the faculty on a level closer to a social basis, thereby enhancing the academic relationship.

In the United States, students are expected to contribute to, and are often evaluated on, their participation in class discussion. It is not disrespectful to question or challenge the professor; in fact, it is viewed as a healthy sign of interest and original thought. In many classes, grades will be determined in part by a student's contributions to class discussions. Students often are required to prepare presentations based on independent research for seminars.

It is beneficial for any student, whether graduate or undergraduate, to meet with professors outside the classroom. During the year, there will be both scheduled meetings and informal opportunities to meet your professors. You may also visit the professor during office hours to obtain extra assistance. Office hours are often announced in the first class and posted by the professor's door so that students have an appropriate time to ask questions outside of class.

International students may be surprised by students' behavior in the classroom. American students are likely to be dressed casually, may bring drinks or snacks to class, and may speak to the professor in a very informal way.

Some professors run more formal classrooms than others. The best advice is to observe the classroom environment during the first week and adapt accordingly to the degree you are comfortable.

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