I just managed to thouroughly piss off my teacher by writing a paper at home I was supposed to do in class.?

Question

It was an unintentional mistake, I don't know what to do. It's a college journalism class and we were supposed to get interviews from the community and write them up, in class apparantly. When I showed up with the assignment feeling so on top of things, he blew up because he said it wasn't fair to the other students, which is true. I feel bad and I'm scared he's going to permanently blacklist me and shoot down my grade. I am willing to write an apology email or something, any suggestions? Oh, and he's not the most reasonable person ever, kind of a power-trip type of guy.

Answer 1

I can't imagine blowing up at a student for working ahead, having taught college for many years now! Shoot, I'm just happy if they actually turn in their work. In addition to the great advice you've already gotten, may I recommend the following, in case this becomes a Dean issue?

Document, in writing, every interaction you have with him, including this one. Keep an extra copy of the syllabus (which, I believe, must include grading regulations and such, by law), even if you have to make a copy of the syllabus yourself. Just state the facts of the interactions (i.e., "Accidentally prepared an in-class assignment before class. Professor X said ____ and ___ to me, and used ____ tone of voice while doing so."). Unless the syllabus says, "I will dock student grades, if they do classwork as homework," I don't believe he'll have any justification for hurting your grade. Just make sure all of your other tests, homeworks, and papers are outstanding, and be the "better person" whenever you see him in class or in office hours.

Most department administrators really want to help, but if students come to them with vague, undocumented complaints, or get carried away with their emotions, they have no way of judging fairly. Chances are, this professor is also a bear to his colleagues, but he may also present a totally nice face to them, while being egotistical to students. On the other hand, I've seen professors completely bash each other in departmental meetings, yet behave with great candor and kindness to their students. Thus, they may not be aware of how he treats his students.

Just stay calm, and don't feel bad about your mistake. These things happen, and he's in the wrong, in this situation.

Answer 2

Well, I don't know the Christians you're talking about, but personally, I've never met them. We are to defend our faith. What is your defense and who are you defending? I don't get offended too easily, especially since no one has ever disproved God to me. Go ahead and try. I'll come back with the Truth. Edit: I'm still here with one TD. Not offended. I also see that you get easily offended. You, and your friends that is. You should check out why this is. There is a spiritual reason behind your offense. Maybe being "judgeful" of us hasn't been justified and your conscience knows this. By the way we as Christians are righteous, but it seems you are self righteous. Big difference. Just sayin'.

Answer 3

I would def. email him and explain that you were trying to be on top of things. Teachers have bad days to, I am a student and I do a work study with professors and when they freak out in class, they come back to their office and actually feel bad about it. Don't take it personally, they could just be having a really bad day.

Answer 4

Ok, I like both answers that you already rec'd to this. Talk to the professor really, it would be good for both of you - however, do not email an apology. That is not a good way to deliver an apology ever.

Answer 5

Go to his office hours and talk to him about what happened. If he is being unreasonable, then write a letter to the dean of the department and ask them to assist you.