8.1 “Confronting Professor X”

Picture This:

You step into Professor X’s office with your most recent test in hand, frustration flickering in your chest.

You: “Hello, Professor. I wanted to go over this test.”

Professor X: “Sure. What’s the issue?”
You: “I studied every lecture slide, but some questions felt like they came out of nowhere. It doesn’t seem fair.”

Professor X leans back and crosses his arms.

Professor X: “Everything on that exam was covered in class or on the posted lecture slides. If you were paying attention, you’d have caught it.”

Your blood pressure spikes. It seems impossible that the test perfectly aligned with your notes; some questions came out of left field!

You: “I don’t think that’s fair. You can’t expect us to write down everything you say!”

Professor X sits up straighter, arms crossed, eyes drifting toward the ceiling.

Professor X: “Clearly, you need to pay more attention in class. You’re probably spending too much time on your phone.”

An indignant flush sweeps your cheeks. You pride yourself on your attendance and meticulous note-taking.

You: “That is completely not true. I attended all your classes and took amazing notes. I always do well on tests.”

Professor X shrugs.

Professor X: “Well, it sounds like you just didn’t study hard enough. Next time, ask more questions and do a little more prep before the next test.”

Your heart thuds as it feels like all your preparation has been dismissed.

You: “You’re so wrong. I’m going to the Dean about this. Mark my words!”