Why did the woman talk to the professor?

M: Come in, please. What can I do for you?
W: Professor Donner, are you giving your Advanced Geology course next semester?
M: Yes, I’m planning on it.
W: Could I be enrolled in it? I know it’s a graduate course and I’m only a junior, but ...
M: Aren’t you a bit 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 favorite interest and I’ve done a lot of reading in the field. Last semester I took Professor Burman’s course and I didn’t find it really challenging enough.
M: I see. You certainly aren’t one of those students who are out for easy grades.
W: I should say not. I really want to learn something.
M: Well, I’ll speak to Professor Burman. If he thinks you’re ready, I’ll let you enroll.
W: Oh, thanks. That’s really very kind of you.