How can I say Thank-you to a professor?

[Laura77598]

Hello Nurse Educators,

I am an awkward spot that I really don't know how to navigate. I have this Anatomy teacher, who also taught my Microbiology class. HE IS GREAT!!!!! He has been teaching for 25+ years at this college. He is CUTE too! robably about 55 or so...

Anyway He gave me an extra point on my final grade (GASP, HORROR!!) not for any reason, other than he really doesn't do borderline grades. No 89s, No 79s, No 69s. I am not complaining (Obviously) as it may make the difference as to whether I get into our nursing program or not. I am truly grateful for this extra point, and I hope no one judges him or me for this. What I really want to know is: How do I say thank-you? I never solicited this or asked him to help me in this way, but now that he has, I feel like I should do something for him. Perhaps a gift card 50-75 $ to an office supply store? A gift card to a local restaraunt? MONEY in a thank you card? I am really at a loss here, because I really don't know what is appropriate and what would be considered insulting or inappropriate. I feel like college educators probably are not paid a decent amount for the work they do, but I also do not know how to respond correctly (without causing an awkward scenario) to adequately say thank-you. His wife also works at that college, not that this makes a difference, but How do students (especially students of the opposite gender) show appreciation to a male professor without insulting a male ego, or making more of the gesture than need be. I really like this professor, and I do not want any adverse situations to arise because I overdid my THank-you. Remember when we were all kids and we just gave our teachers plants, flowers, candles, or maybe a gift certificate to a local restaraunt? Any advice or meaningful gifts you have received would really be appreciated-especially you MEN INSTRUCTORS. I teally don't want to convey the wrong impression to anyone, but I do want to express my gratitude and appreciation in a way that would be appreciated by the Long-time married MALE professor. How do you tell a teacher thank-you without insulting or overstepping?

Thanks again for any input,

A grateful Student

[nerdtonurse?, BSN, RN]

Without going into him giving you a point, you could write a nice note to his boss (dean of whatever department), commending his teaching skills, command of subject, etc. People tend to forget that our teachers are doing a job, and that an "atta boy" or "atta girl" letter to a person's boss never hurts.

[jlcole45]

I do think it is important that you let him know that he was a good teacher. We all need to hear that we are doing a good job! I agree the note is perfect, but not gushy.

Another thought .... can you nominate him for some sort of teaching award? If he is as good as you say then there will be other students who would support this wouldn't you think?