Pay attention during class. Trust me, your instructors will notice.

It’s Jackson, back again for another semester interning with the marketing office.

The difference between high school and college is staggering. For one, you do not need a pass to use the restroom anymore, and the idea of sitting in detention might make you chuckle.

At first, the change can be overwhelming. But as I got through my first couple semesters of college, I realized that by seeking help from my instructors and following their advice, my life got a whole lot easier.

Instead of spending an entire evening worrying about whether I was doing something right, I just popped into my instructor’s office hours and resolved the issue immediately. Instead of doodling and nodding off during a lecture, I maintained eye contact and took notes. These little tricks, which can be intimidating to put into practice at first, really do pay off—in more ways than one. (Listen below to nursing dean Jewel Diller share her tips to make a good impression on your professors.)

One of the most important things you can do as a college student is learn the dos and don’ts of communicating with your instructors. Acquiring these skills are crucial to your academic success, and if done appropriately, they can also foster some pretty significant connections that can be beneficial come graduation time.

Personally, I try to remind my instructors that I am truly engaged in their classes. The only way to do that, other than doing well on exams and assignments, is by going the extra mile: Go to office hours, show up with well thought-out questions, and actually take their advice.

You don’t have to take my word for it, but you should take theirs. Ivy Tech faculty members gave me their tips about how students can build a better relationship with them. Take a look! Thanks to Jewel Diller, nursing dean, and Deanna Surfus, English department chair, for their help compiling these points.