Now that you are heading to college, there is one thing you may not be too sure about: how to talk to your professor. Whether you have recently graduated from high school or you are an adult who is returning to the classroom, figuring out how to talk to your college professor can seem a bit challenging and even overwhelming. With these five tips, however, you will be well on your way to forging a relationship with your prof and getting the most from your college experience.

Tip #1: Use the Right Title

Your college professor worked hard to earn his or her title. Therefore, if he or she has a Ph.D., be sure to address him or her as “Doctor.” Keep in mind, however, that not all professors have a Ph.D., so you don’t want to use “Doctor” before your professor’s name if he or she isn’t one. On the other hand, some professors actually prefer for you to call them by their first names. Listen to how your professor introduces him or herself on the first day and address him or her in that way. If you aren’t sure, you will generally be safe to call your professor “Mr.” or “Ms.” Never call a female professor “Mrs.” unless she addresses herself in that same way.

Tip #2: Be Honest

After working with college students for a number of years, professors have heard every story in the book. This means they will easily spot a lie when one is told to them. If your professor thinks you are being less than honest, he or she won’t respond very well to your attempts at communication.

Tip #3: Be Concise

Although most professors enjoy spending time with their students, they are also on very tight schedules. So, be clear and concise when you approach your professor. In other words, get right to your concern and make your request. On the other hand, if it is your professor’s “office hours” and he or she isn’t busy with other students, drop in now and again to pay a social visit. Getting to know your professor will help you build a stronger relationship and can come in handy down the road when you are in need of a reference letter.

Tip #4: Never Flirt

Whether you are attracted to your professor or you just think flirting will help you get an “A,” you should never cross this boundary with your professor. Flirting may actually cause your professor to shy away from you, as a professor’s career can be ruined by having a relationship with a student.

Tip #5: Don’t Expect Special Favors

Although many professors are willing to work with students who are facing special circumstances, you should never expect your professor to bend over backwards to accommodate your needs. There is only so much a professor can do to accommodate you without being unfair to the other students or to the professor.