Stories from the Trenches

Basking in the inauguration glow...thought I'd share a few humorous anecdotes.

I received this email recently:
"I forgot to turn in my homework last week. When will you be around and where should I turn it in."
Note that all of this information is in the syllabus. (and who forgets to turn in their HW anyway)

Setting: One week before the final exam
Student: I need to take my exam earlier because I am leaving before the day it is scheduled.
Me: The exam date is clearly listed in the syllabus and had been posted since the week before class started.
Student: Yeah, I just never had an exam on Thursday before and didn't think they did them on those days or that it was special or something.
Me: The exam date is clearly listed in the syllabus and had been posted since the week before class started.
Student: Yeah, but if I don't take it early ... sob story goes here....

Setting: One week before end of term.
Student: Dr. Mom, I need to make an A in this class or my country, which is paying for my education, will make me come home.
Me: Well, let's see how you're doing. Okay, looks like you are making a "C" so you will need to make a nearly perfect score on the exam to achieve that goal.
Student: Yeah, I really need an A.
Me: Well, it sounds like it is possible, ambitious but possible. The practice exam is posted online as well as some review sheets. I suggest you start with those.
Student: Is there anything else I can do to improve my grade?
Me: Well, if you recall the first week of class I asked anyone if they had any particular grade that they needed to see me early in the term so that we can make a plan to help achieve it. It is a little late a week before the final exam. Good luck studying.