International students often comment that US students are competitive but don t seem to study very hard, and that beyond the informality of the classroom the professors are very demanding. Some of these apparent contradictions can be explained by the values that underpin them. Creativity, tolerance, and flexibility are, in general, valued above tradition and respect for authority in the United States. Teaching styles and classroom attitudes vary widely and are influenced by many different factors. Even where tradition does dictate professional or student behavior, the patterns may not be evident to someone coming from a different tradition.
Professors are the core of the teaching staff at most institutions in the United States.
Professors generally teach lecture courses, seminars, and courses for graduate students and upper-class undergraduates. A professor s informal style of dress or speech must not be taken to mean that he or she has a relaxed attitude toward assignments, class attendance, or the quality of your work. American professors expect their students to ask questions and use critical reasoning. Class participation is important. Silence may be misconstrued as lack of interest.