The purpose of this article is to analyze “being” a university professor in programs in the health area. It includes topics related to exercise of the teaching profession as an art in which aspects associated with exercise of the respective disciplines are shared. On that basis, it examines teaching practice and the feelings of affection and friendship involved in that activity, while emphasizing that they do not constitute a lack of respect for the rank and mandate of a university professor. Constant analysis and reflection on one’s actions as a teacher should serve as daily motivation in professional practice to design and apply teaching strategies that create new personal, academic, social and civic attitudes among students.