<p>Why would you want to skip classes? It’s one thing if something comes up, but it sounds as though you are actively planning it. That’s silly. As a future prof, I’d be ****ed, and the profs I know feel the same.</p>
<p>As for getting to know a prof during office hours but not attending class, that’s even sillier. Why would a prof look kindly on a student that doesn’t attend class? Those classes are prepped extensively by these profs - when you blow it off, it’s disrespectful. Office hours don’t make up for that.</p>
<p>As far as LORs are concerned, a prof cannot recommend you to other profs for letters. You have to earn those letters yourself. I suggest you not only attend class, but that you actively participate.</p>