Addressing a lady professor should be done with respect and courtesy. The appropriate way to address a female professor depends on the academic culture and the preferences of the individual professor. Here are some common ways to address a lady professor:
Professor + Last Name: This is a formal and respectful way to address a professor. For example, "Professor Smith" or "Professor Johnson."
Dr. + Last Name: If the professor holds a doctoral degree (Ph.D., MD, etc.), you can use "Dr." followed by their last name. For instance, "Dr. Williams."
Ma'am: In some academic settings, especially in the United States, using "Ma'am" can be appropriate and respectful. However, this term might be more commonly used in military or southern cultural contexts.
Professor + First Name: Some professors may be more informal and prefer to be addressed by their first name with the title "Professor." For example, "Professor Emily" or "Professor Jessica."
Follow their lead: Pay attention to how the professor introduces themselves or how they sign their emails. If they use a specific form of address, it's a good indication of their preferred title.
It's essential to be respectful in your tone and demeanor when addressing any professor, regardless of their gender. If you're unsure about the appropriate form of address, using "Professor" or "Dr." with their last name is a safe and polite choice.
If you have the opportunity, observing how other students address the professor or asking colleagues about the customary way to address faculty members at your institution can also provide helpful guidance.