There is no doubt that Swarthmore chooses its professors wisely. Hundreds of candidates will apply for one or two positions, ensuring the highest quality of tutelage at this institution. Because of this, it is very likely to have mostly good experiences with professors, but it is also possible to have mediocre experiences.
The Professor is the most important factor in a course because they are the agent between the student and the readings/information. The readings can be dry, but the professor can illuminate them so that the student can make a relevant connection to their own experiences. For example, Kierkegaard isn’t the most compelling author, but Professor Wallace really helped us understand how to interpret his work in a modern day context. On the other hand, the readings can invite themselves to the understand of the students, but some professors can hinder the experience.
When I mean “good” teachers, I can say that all of them are insanely knowledgeable and always available to help you outside of class. But sometimes, professors are unable to communicate their knowledge effectively to help the students understand. This has only happened to me once, but it seems to be a rare occurrence. Another problem is that a student can have personality problems with the professors. Not that the professor are incapable or teaching or the students are dull, but both fail to communicate with each other. This hasn’t particularly been a problem for me, but it seems that it can be an issue in reading/discussion-heavy classes where the professor writes and judges the assignments.
But wait! There are several solutions to professor conundrums. Swat as a Student Rec book where students rate different courses offered. Some categories for a course are the teacher, the readings, the difficulty etc. and a comment box. It’s very helpful, especially to find out about the teaching style of the professor. A lot of times students will talk about how many assignments they are and what type. For example, knowing if a class has more papers or exams for assessments, if you have to do weekly presentations, if the professor prefers a lectures style. The possibilities are endless. Swat also allows students to shop classes for two weeks at the beginning of each semester. This is the best way to really experience the course before you decide to take it or drop it. Lastly, word of mouth is really helpful.
Summary: Professors are very very important.
