Is “being extremely proficient at getting educators to like you” a resume builder? Probably not, but if you know how to properly form relationships with your professors, you will be able to better interact with your superiors throughout your life. Forging these relationships isn’t so much about kissing up as it is about understanding boundaries, perseverance and surpassing expectations.

####Boundaries: They _definitely_ exist (but aren’t all the same)
One of the most important things to remember when developing a relationship with your professor is that there are boundaries to such relationships. However, just as each professor is unique, each relationship you have will be, too. Some professors will create strict professional boundaries: They will be addressed by a professional title, they will answer emails during normal business hours, and their office hours will be informational and proper. Other professors may be just the opposite: Calling them by their first name is preferred, you may get their personal cell phone number, and they may have a relaxed and friendly approach to appointments and office hours. Understanding the boundaries your professor has set (whether verbally or nonverbally) is very important in fostering a proper relationship.

####Figure out their expectations, then surpass them
Luckily for college students, figuring out what professors expect of you is fairly easy: Just read the syllabus. For the uninitiated few, the class syllabus is second to only the Constitution or your sacred text of choice; it is a wealth of knowledge, information and guidelines to make your time in the class pleasant. Read it, know it, and live it. Furthermore, there is one practice that is sure to earn your professor’s attention: active listening. Active listening is the practice of being an attentive participant in the lecture. This prompts you to focus on the professor, take notes and interact with the professor with answers to questions or questions of your own.

####If at first you don’t succeed, keep trying (really)
If we’re being honest, creating and maintaining fruitful relationships isn’t an easy task. Relationships take constant work and re-evaluation, and your bond with professors is no different. Sometimes you’ll click instantly with a professor, but you may need to keep at it with others. Regardless, these relationships are professional ones that (when maintained properly) can be extremely beneficial to you as a student, potential job-seeker and human being.