Why does the woman talk to the professor?

M: Come in. What can I do for you?
W: Professor Donald, are you giving your advanced geology course next semester?
M: Yeah, I’m planning on it.
W: I wonder if I could enter for it. I know it is a graduate course and I’m only a junior, but...
M: Are you a little young? I’ve allowed qualified seniors to take the course, and they usually have a hard time keeping up.
W: I know, but the geology of the American west is my major interest and I’ve done a lot of reading in the field. Last semester, I took Professor Berman’s course, and I didn’t find it challenging enough.
M: I see. You certainly are one of those students who are out for easy grades.
W: I should say not. I really want to learn something.
M: Well, I will speak to Professor Berman about it. If he thinks you are ready, I will let you enter.
W: Oh, thank you, Professor Donald. That’s very nice of you.