Timliness Equals Respect

U.S. professionals take promptness seriously, and the quickest way to lose their respect is to show up late. If you are even five minutes late for an admissions or job interview, you may hurt your chances as a candidate. It does not matter if your car broke down, you were taking an exam, or you were jetlagged and overslept, the perception will be that you consider your own time more valuable than that of the interviewer. This idea carries over into the classroom: missing the first day of class, or even an assignment due date, is considered disrespectful. If you remember only one thing, it is this: if you have an appointment, be there on time, or even early. If you cannot avoid being late, always apologize.