“They”, whomever they might be. They say that you are not just a number. The professors, the organizers, the deans, the TA’s, even your classmates with experience with certain classes. They all say that you are not just a number in a class. That you are a committed student. That you have a purpose in class and that you are recognizable as an individual. But sometimes, this just isn’t the case.
It’s sad but there are still some professors that treat you with cold gazes and stock replies to your emails and inquiries. There, unfortunately, are professors that do this. They may have their excuses. Maybe they are just as nervous as you are (or does that just apply to first dates?). Maybe they are soo busy with their labs and papers and research and time management and personal lives that they don’t have time to put just a little sincerity into the way they treat you (yes, some sarcasm detected).
The fact of the matter is that eventually, you are going to meet one of these people. It might not be in class and it might only be just for one day. But it is inevitable. You know what I think? Screw ’em! You have done your research on ratemyprofessors.com. You’ve talked to your friends. You have done everything you can to avoid these professors and it can still happen. So, the only thing to do? Turn up the cool! I challenge you! For every insincere, stock reply, cold shoulder experienced, turn up the charm and class and personality! They might not get it and it might make them feel uncomfortable but maybe, if enough people show them how it is done, something might click. Maybe.. What else can you do?