Handing in Papers

Bernice L. Hausman, Professor
Department of English
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, VA

How to hand a formal paper in to Professor Hausman:

Professor Hausman will always tell you how to hand a paper in when you are taking one of her classes. PAY ATTENTION TO WHAT SHE TELLS YOU. Her usual method is to ask you to hand the paper in during class. Occasionally she will accept papers at another time, but she will always want you to give the paper to her personally. This usually means coming to her office at an appointed time. Take-home exams receive the same treatment and are usually handed in accordingly.

Professor Hausman wants to make sure that your paper or exam is received and graded fairly, so she takes care to insure that it never leaves her possession. That is why you must give it to her personally rather than leave it for her. Only in exceptional circumstances will she suggest that you put it in her mailbox, for reasons outlined below.

FAQ's about handing a paper in to Professor Hausman:

What happens if you drop off a paper in Professor Hausman's mailbox in Shanks Hall?

If you leave a paper in Professor Hausman's mailbox, she will probably get it, but may not. This means that you are taking a chance by putting it in her mailbox. If you put it there but she doesn't receive it, whose fault is it? YOURS. So be smart: if you leave a paper for her in her mailbox, put your name on it as well as hers andsend her an email message asking if she has received it. In your email message, request confirmation by return email. But by all means, only hand a paper in this way if you have cleared it with Professor Hausman beforehand.

Can I email my paper to Professor Hausman?

PROFESSOR HAUSMAN DOES NOT ACCEPT PAPERS BY EMAIL. All papers must be turned in in hard copy. Occasionally, exceptional circumstances necessitate an email submission, but such circumstances are highly unlikely to ever happen to you.

What happens if you send a friend to drop the paper off?

This is not a good idea. If Professor Hausman doesn't get the paper, it's YOUR FAULT. Think carefully before entrusting your paper (and its grade) to this method.

What if it's just an informal journal assignment?

Professor Hausman often asks students to drop off informal assignments in her mailbox. While it is still YOUR FAULT if she doesn't get them, the stakes are much lower and your risk is thus less. Still, remember to put your name and her name on anything you place in her mailbox. That way, if there's an error, your paper stands a better chance of getting to her.

How do I get my paper back from Professor Hausman?

Professor Hausman keeps all papers and exams for one semester after the course. Students can pick these up by coming by her office during office hours or by making an appointment. Graduating students can arrange to have papers, exams, and other course materials mailed to them. Professor Hausman will never leave papers or exams for you to pick up in a box outside her door.