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Switching lab partners

kt_uvic
edited September 2008 in General
Sorry for all the questions, but I'd like to switch my bio lab partner... we weren't assigned to them, but we just kind of all randomly paired up based on who we were standing next to, and that is who we are supposed to be with for the next 4 months. She doesn't do any work, and when the lab instructors come around to verbally test us, she doesn't answer any of the questions, so I'm always trying to like give her hints because we're graded jointly! She also smells bad (seriously, isn't college-age a little old to not be showering regularly?). I'm upset about the whole situation. She also has a very thick accent, so I can't understand her.

How should I approach switching partners? Is that a common thing to ask for?

Comments

  • NukeChem
    edited September 2008
    Ask the TA or the instructor. You might be allowed to switch. I can't answer for them as I've never done the biology ever ever ever.
  • collegestudent
    edited September 2008
    I don't think its common to switch partners unless someone transfers out of the class but I'm pretty sure you would have to find someone else in another group willing to switch with you. The TA or prof isn't going to pull someone from a group which they are happy with just to make you happy - they'll tell you to find someone willing to switch or deal with it.

    I have no idea how you'd approach it discreetly though, b/c there would be no reason to switch other than you are not happy with your partner. If you find someone willing to switch, I'd tell her it's b/c your new partner is your friend and you guys wanted to work together.

    BUT maybe since it's only been 1 (or 2 labs) she'll pick it up, some people (esp if its their first lab) take a while to get used to the situation.

    Overall I don't think it's proper lab etiquette to ask to switch partners, but what is more common is telling your prof your issues with your partner and how you worry it'll affect your grade, and the prof will likely agree mark you guys separately.

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