Taking Coursera Course from Potential Mentor

[Anrosi]

I signed up for a Coursera MOOC course offered by one of the PIs I am applying to in the fall under the assumption that there would be a lot of people in the class. However, it looks like there are only about 20. I’m interested in the course but I’m afraid that it might harm my chances of getting in if she doesn’t think I do well on assignments. On the other hand, my interest in the subject might be a positive factor. Does anyone have any thoughts?

[PsyDuck90]

Forgive me for being blunt, but if you are interested in taking the course, just make sure you do well. Don't phone it in, as you can actually have the opportunity to impress her with your work and develop a rapport, which can be beneficial. 

[Anrosi]

7 hours ago, Hk328 said:

Forgive me for being blunt, but if you are interested in taking the course, just make sure you do well. Don't phone it in, as you can actually have the opportunity to impress her with your work and develop a rapport, which can be beneficial. 

That’s not blunt at all! I definitely plan to do my best in the course. And I thought the rapport could be beneficial, too. Thank you for your input!