Thanking a Professor - Appropriate v. Inappropriate

[gradthreeL]

I did not answer 60% of my exam (poor time management).

The Professor gave me the lowest possible passing grade -
I'm fairly certain that she used her leeway to not fail me.

Is there any possible cordial / thank you statement
that would be appropriate in person?   

Are these inappropriate?
 
1.  Sorry about my exam performance. I feel lucky to have passed.
2.  I feel fortunate that there was leeway for me to pass.
 
Any advice would be appreciated.





 

[vap]

Without knowing more facts about the situation (like why you shouldn't have passed), I would say "inappropriate."

If you just think you did badly, but you managed to pass by yourself, then it's not appropriate to thank a professor for a grade you earned.

I also think you have nothing to gain by thanking her.  I would just take the grade and move on.

And, if the professor actually did something inappropriate herself (which could be implied form your post), then there's no reason to rub it in the prof's face.  If you really want to express thanks, I would go talk to the prof in person and ask her how to improve on the exam, express disappointment in your own performance, and thank her for being generous (I guess).

You've got me curious, though.  If you care to explain... did she actually tell you that you shouldn't have passed, or do you just think you did not deserve to pass?

[uh huh.]

And, if the professor actually did something inappropriate herself (which could be implied form your post), then there's no reason to rub it in the prof's face. 

Not only that, but if she did something inappropriate in passing you, why would you thank her by even voicing the fact that you really shouldn't have passed? If word of that got out, her career (and your grade) could be in serious jeopardy.

If she didn't do anything inappropriate, and you passed on your own, doing anything to suggest that she DID do something inappropriate is an a-hole move.

Just keep your trap shut and move on.

[resipsaloquitur]

I would not use any of the proposed wording. I wouldn't even bring it up unless the prof mentions it to you. If she does, just say that you appreciate that you passed the class. Then move on.

[gradthreeL]

Vap, Can I thank her being generous?

[vap]

Vap, Can I thank her being generous?

Sure.

But I wouldn't.  At least, I wouldn't without knowing more about your situation.

[Thistle]

hell no dont say a word.  just be thankful for your bit o'luck and press on

[gradthreeL]

I was the Class TA, and the Professor is the advisor for the l.s. group that
I am the President of.  I just wish there was a way to acknowledge / own the
embarrassment on my terms.   

[,.,.,.;.,.,.]

NO.

["Legapp" Stands for "Legal Application"]

Agreed that none of these are appropriate.  You can absolutely speak with the professor in her office and tell her how much you enjoyed the class, even if it wasn't reflected in your exam performance.