Everyone loves that great moment when you raise your hand in class and the professor calls on you by saying your name, rather than just pointing at you. Your friends look at you and it’s kind of funny — you feel accomplished. I know I do, at least. As insignificant as remembering a name may sound, it goes a long way.

At some point down the road, you will need a letter of recommendation, a favor, or will be in search of a research opportunity. It is nearly impossible to do this without being close to a professor. Letters of recommendation will come easy if you regularly meet with a professor, talk to them, and express your curiosity.

The competition for jobs and graduate school is as high as its ever been, and it will only continue to get more difficult. This means that not only is your academic transcript emphasized, but also your extracurriculars and letters of recommendation. Being well-rounded and having good relationships goes a long way in today’s world.

Professors have colleagues that are often in need of students’ help conducting experiments, in the classroom, or whatever it may be. Having a good relationship with a professor can expose you to connections you never would have had.

With all of these long-term benefits, the short-term benefit is obvious: you will do better in the course. Meeting the professor will help you complete and understand assignments, prepare you for an upcoming exam, and improve your overall understanding of concepts.

The next time you go to class, sit a little closer than usual, try to pay attention, and take note of when your professor opens his or her office doors. Pay them a visit with some questions on what you are learning, and see the immediate benefits. It will pay off in both the short term and the long term.