‘We are humans too’: What students wish professors knew

Students are speaking out about what they wish professors understood: Students are more than just learners -- they are human beings. 

Claflin University students say that balancing academics, extracurriculars and personal lives often leaves them feeling exhausted. 

One STEM major, Ky ‘Seanna Rowe, class of 2027, said she is frustrated by unrealistic study expectations across multiple classes.  

“In one semester alone, I’ve had multiple professors each recommend studying 2-3 hours per day for their course, which is simply impossible when two or three others say the same thing,” Rowe said. “Between heavy coursework, online classes, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, planning for my future career and striving to be an outstanding student, burnout becomes inevitable. 

“We need professors to understand that we are not machines,” Rowe said. “We need breaks. We get tired.”  

Other students agree, saying they are often labeled as “lazy.” They stressed the importance of empathy in teaching.  

Amayia White said, “I wish professors knew that empathy should be coupled with teaching. Sometimes professors forget that we are humans with emotions and lives. Sometimes we need a moment away and we shouldn’t get penalized for that.” 

Rowe added, “Professors should know that as students, we are tired. Too often we’re seen as lazy or as if we’re not putting our best foot forward, when in reality, we are drained.”  

The demands of modern college life add extra pressure. 

Trinati Hemingway, biology major, said, “With the way the world is moving today, everything feels fast paced for students. We’re navigating new technology, adapting to constant changes, and balancing school with many other responsibilities. Sometimes it feels like the workload piles up without consideration that we have multiple classes and commitments outside of just one course.”  

Students highlighted specific ways professors could help. 

“We have lives outside our assignments,” senior Alexis Singleton said. “Have space between assignments, please! Having due dates in the syllabus would be VERY useful.” 

Olivia Matthews said, “They should know our names and know different teaching styles. 

Above all, students say understanding and flexibility from professors can make a difference in their success.  

Hemingway said, “We are committed to learning, but at the end of the day, we are human beings, working hard to earn our place in the world just like everyone else.” 

As the semester continues, students hope their voices are heard. What they want most from professors is not less work, but more understanding. Empathy doesn’t mean lowering the standards, it means remembering that we’re people first, students second.”