When teachers play favorites
Dear Mai-Mai, China and Tingting,
I am in third year of college and there’s this professor who teaches a class that I’d like to take because she’s very good. The problem is she’s known to favor and give better grades to guys. It’s a major subject and there are others who teach it but she’s very knowledgeable. My main concern is I’m vying for honors and she might ruin my chances. Could I report her? Should I risk taking her class?
CAPS
I don’t know what you can report about her especially as what you have stated is purely gossip. Unless you go deeper and check the records and then prove that she really favors the guys, you have nothing. Should you risk taking her class? If it was me vying for honors, I wouldn’t. I’m sure my sister would disagree. Why would I put my grades in danger if I can get a teacher who teaches the same things and will be fairer to me? Remember, school honors can help you get a foot inside the job market.
China
China’s right. I disagree. I’d take the class, learn everything she can teach and prove myself worthy of the grade. In my experience, even teachers who have biases recognize talent and genuine interest when then see it. The answers to your questions really depend on how confident you are and how much you want to take home from your educational experience. You can take the same class from another teacher and have a second-rate experience or face your fear, take up the challenge and do what you’re really supposed to be doing — that is, learning from the best.
Mai-Mai
I don’t think you should make your decisions based on gossip. Even if there’s a story wildly going around, it doesn’t mean it’s true. Some teachers are prone to wild talk especially if she’s very harsh in giving grades. Give her a benefit of a doubt. That said, I also think you shouldn’t let your guard down. I suggest you take her class and learn what you should be learning. Your parents expect this of you. Your future depends on this too. While a cum laude might give you a better chance to get a job initially, the right knowledge will open more doors eventually. Besides, aren’t you going to be more fulfilled if you faced what many others feared? Work harder. The good thing is, you have been warned. Use that warning to your advantage.
Tingting
