Should I check how much direct contact undergraduates have with professors?
Yes, this is worth checking. Opportunities to speak directly with faculty—such as asking questions in class, attending office hours, participating in seminars or laboratories, and seeking advice about courses or future plans—can affect how easily students obtain academic support. However, these opportunities vary by university, faculty, course, academic year, and student situation, so check the institution’s official information and consider them alongside teaching content and other support services.
Key points
- Check how students can ask questions and seek advice inside and outside class.
- Look for seminars, laboratories, office hours, or formal academic advising.
- Compare the quality and accessibility of support, not only the amount of direct contact.
Things to check
- The frequency and operation of faculty contact can differ by university, faculty, course, academic year, and individual student circumstances.