This is my first semester as a college professor. Being one of the new and younger members of the staff, I have noticed that there is a fine line between cool and creepy. It is much more fine than I think anyone would care to admit. Trying to be cool can quickly become creepy when you try too hard. I really want to stay on the cool side of the line, but find that with one little slip up I could be creepy faster than you can say “too tight slacks.”

So, with my keen eye for observations and strong connection to youth culture, I have generously devised a list so that others may not make the mistake of crossing this oh so fine line. I think it fits for anyone who wants to be a college professor, but it is also not a bad warning for those looking to go into youth ministry. It is not all inclusive, but offers a few guidelines for success. I have not crossed any of these specific lines yet, but I am only in my first semester. Give me time.

The fine line between cool and creepy professors. I hope this helps.

Telling a student “You look nice” = cool.
Adding one extra “i” to “Ni-ice” = creepy

Trying to keep it real = cool
Using the phrase “Trying to keep it real” in conversation = creepy

Spend time “talking and getting to know” students = cool.
Add a little insignificant “s” to the beginning of that phrase = ultimate creepy.

Wear jeans = cool
Wear same jeans every day = creepy

Saying “I like college students” = cool
Adding a specific trait like “with blonde hair” = creepy

Listen to Snow Patrol, Jimmy Eat World, or Adele during office hours = cool.
Making a personalized mixed CD of these same songs for a student to enjoy = creepy.

Watch The Office = cool
Say “That’s what she said” in class = creepy

Using a mild cuss word outside of class = cool.
Making any of these one syllable words into two, as in “Bee-yatch” = creepy

Being friends with them on Facebook = cool
Instant messaging them on Facebook at night = creepy

Being a professor who blogs = cool
Being a professor who blogs about trying to not be creepy = creepy.

Dang it, I knew it was a fine line.

Feel free to add your own suggestions for areas to avoid.