IT is more than a legend — terror professors are a real phenomenon. Be it due to well-meaning educators who wish only excellence from their students or just some lecturers who give out high grades rather sparingly, these feared instructors are a quintessential part of one’s college life.

Dread it or run from it; this fact adds to the anxiety of freshmen. This is doubly true when factored in the hushed conversations of upperclassmen who declare a class is unfortunately doomed when one gets assigned to a certain teacher.

Although some dean’s listers treat this as a myth, as they believe they can accomplish any difficult task they are assigned, it seems that these feared mentors resurrect every single school term.

Read on to learn from the latest batch of summa cum laudes from the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) on their thoughts on how to survive terror professors.

IN order to survive terror professors, try to see their ways as challenges that will push your potential to the fullest. Give it a shot by putting in more effort, which includes reading in advance, attending the classes early, and listening to them more intently. Things might not go exactly as you envisaged because of them, but with a new perspective and going the extra mile, this experience can be a blessing in disguise.

It can help you develop a stronger mindset, set your priorities straight, and prepare you for the real world. Nevertheless, mahigpit na yakap when you encounter them.

I NEVER saw “terror profs” as terror profs. I always found them to be strict professors who set high expectations. They push their students to become the best versions of themselves.

Likewise, my number one life hack for surviving these types of profs is to accept your fate. Know that you will most likely never meet their expectations. I’ve always been a perfectionist. However, after one too many times of receiving less than perfect grades, I adapted a “nothing to lose” attitude. I knew I could never achieve a solid 4.0 in their subject, and that freed me to make mistakes.

WHILE studying, we do not have the power to choose our classmates or our professors, leading to encountering terror ones. What I suggest is to be attentive at all times. Attend classes, ask questions, and seek clarifications. Respect them and their subject by managing time wisely to meet deadlines.

Maintain a positive attitude and stay organized. This does not only apply to those who are considered terrors. This applies to all of our instructors. Remember, persistence and dedication are key to overcoming any academic challenges.

GET on their good side — whether that means participating more, becoming the beadle or being extra interactive. Do all that you can to be that “bibo” student. Of course, this also comes with good class performance, so get to know the professor’s standards. Ask about past submissions, or even find their former students to inquire about the quality of work that is expected.

If all goes well, you’ll likely be recognized as one of the model students on their radar. Just make sure you aren’t too “bibo,” because some may find this attitude bothersome or even annoying — your professor included.

IT’S super normal to feel intimidated and selfconscious when confronted by a terror prof. When faced with such teachers, it’s important to remain calm, stay focused, demonstrate determination and maintain a good amount of confidence in your own abilities.

Remember that it’s a situation that happens to the best of us. It reminds us that encountering tough times and making mistakes is a normal aspect of life. Keep in mind that their intention is to challenge and motivate you to excel, and that their tough demeanor does not mirror your capabilities or diminish your self-worth.