Every professor was once a student who kept pushing forward.
We often look up to our professors as authority figures who seem to have it all figured out. They stand in front of classrooms, sharing knowledge and experience and carrying a sense of confidence that we can only dream of.
But here’s the thing: once upon a time, your professors were just like you—students trying to figure out how to juggle deadlines, make sense of complex assignments and navigate the overwhelming world of academia.
They didn’t always know the answers either and they have a few pieces of advice they wish they’d received back then.
In order to gather some advice, I spoke to some Humber Polytechnic professors. Let’s take a look at what they wish they knew when they were sitting in those lecture halls.
Growth takes time
You might think your professor has always been a genius or that their success came easily. But the truth is, many professors started out just like you—doubting themselves and wondering if they could actually make it. Their journey was more like a slow, steady climb, not an overnight leap to the top.
In fact, a lot of professors wish someone had told them earlier to take their time, dream big and push themselves little by little beyond what they think is possible.
Whether it was tackling that first research paper or surviving the grind of a PhD, they learned to trust their potential step by step.
So take it slow, embrace the challenge and let each step shape you. Your professors did the same and that’s how they ended up where they are today.
Advice they wish they’d received as students
I spoke with Morgan I.P. Fics, a filmmaker and a professor in the film and multiplatform storytelling program at Humber. When asked what students often overlook about learning, Fics highlighted that many underestimate the long-term impact of what they learn in class.
“There are nuggets of knowledge in every lecture,” Fics said.
He encourages students to stay engaged, even when the immediate value isn’t clear, as these lessons will shape their future decisions and creativity. To stay motivated during difficult times, Fics advises adopting a long-term perspective.
“The tough moments build character,” he said.
Fics sees challenges as vital for growth and staying focused. Looking back, he wishes he’d been kinder to himself and learned to finish assignments early for more time to improve.
If he could speak to his younger self, Fics would simply say, “Soak it all in, don’t stress about the future and enjoy the process of learning.”
Always aim high
I also spoke with Christina Collins, another professor in the film and multiplatform storytelling program. She offered valuable advice for students struggling to reach their potential.
“Never give up! Fill your vessel—immerse yourself in art, take walks, appreciate beauty. Knowledge is everywhere, so stay present and live moment to moment,” Collins said.
Collins also considers time management as crucial for academic success. She recommended taking notes by hand, as it helps reinforce what you’ve learned and provides something to revisit later. Showing up to class and being engaged, she noted, is half the battle.
Reflecting on her own experiences with poverty and juggling multiple jobs, Collins shared the key lesson she learned as a student.
“You deserve to be here. Trust yourself and own your space,” Collins said.
Always plan ahead
I also talked with David D. Miller, a professor in the professional writing and communications program, who offered practical advice on managing stress and staying productive.
He recommends students plan their time carefully, including scheduling breaks, to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
“For me, having a set schedule for studying and working was really helpful,” Miller explained, noting that he would tackle tasks during the times of day when he felt most energized.
To stay motivated and avoid procrastination, Miller advises setting realistic goals and rewarding yourself. As a student, he would finish specific tasks before rewarding himself with small incentives, like watching a basketball game.
“I’d set a list of things to finish before tuning in,” Miller said.
When feeling stressed, Miller would turn to movies or books for comfort and escape when he was a student. He found that disconnecting in this way helped him reset and recharge.
Reflecting on his own time management, Miller shared one key lesson, “I wish I’d known that everything was going to take longer than I thought it would.”
Building connections with professors
Professors aren’t just the ones who grade your papers—they can be mentors, guides and valuable allies in your academic journey.
Many professors look back and wish they had taken the time to connect more with their own teachers when they were students.
By building a positive relationship with your professors, you open the door to countless opportunities—whether it’s receiving helpful advice, exploring research projects or getting extra support during challenging times.
Don’t be afraid to reach out—visit them during office hours, chat after class or even send a thoughtful email.
A meaningful connection with your professors can make your academic experience more rewarding and supportive, both in and outside the classroom.
Your professors have been in your shoes—facing challenges, doubting themselves and learning to push through. The difference is, they didn’t give up. Through persistence, they gained valuable insights that shaped their journey.
They’ve navigated those struggles and they want to help you succeed just as they did.
Take their advice to heart—aim high, manage your time wisely, ask for help when you need it and most importantly, keep moving forward.
The road to success isn’t always smooth, but trust that you’re on the right path and the lessons you learn along the way will make it all worth it.
You got this!
Feature image courtesy of National Cancer Institute via Unsplash.
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