Building Strong Relationships With Your Teachers

Having a bond with a teacher or staff member can be a crucial and pivotal part of your college application and your high school experience as a whole. Join us today as we walk through cultivating and maintaining a relationship with your teachers.

A strong relationship and rapport can go a long way. Most colleges will require a teacher letter of recommendation. While any teacher can likely write a vague and impersonal letter, this is not the goal. Rather, taking the time to get to know your teacher and truly create a bond can make all the difference. Not only does having relationships with teachers ensure they are better able to help you as a student, but it also fosters a sense of understanding and community. Teachers who genuinely know their students can offer valuable advice on academic and career choices, further contributing to your personal and educational growth.

Ways to Build a Relationship:

• Participate in Class: Showing that you are engaged, interested, and present can go a long way. When you are visibly attentive and involved, it not only helps you absorb the content more effectively but also encourages a more dynamic and interactive classroom environment. Teachers are more likely to notice and remember students who take an active role in their learning, which can lead to more personalized feedback and a greater willingness to offer additional help. Furthermore, regular participation fosters a sense of community in the classroom, making the learning experience more collaborative and supportive. This proactive approach shows respect for the teacher’s efforts and commitment to the subject, laying the groundwork for a positive and productive relationship.

• Communicate: Start the year off right by being open with your teacher. If you’re going to miss a deadline, let them know! Ask for an extension and set an alternative deadline instead of ignoring them or failing to communicate. This approach demonstrates responsibility and respect for their time, which fosters trust and understanding. Additionally, it allows your teacher to offer support and adjustments that can help you stay on track academically.

Asking for a Letter of Recommendation:

• Your letter should come from a teacher who has seen you grow and face challenges. It doesn’t have to be from a class you aced or excelled in. Rather, it matters more that your teacher can write genuine and constructive things about you as a learner and student.

• Ask ahead of time! The spring of 11th grade is typically the safest period and gives your teacher sufficient notice.

• Be understanding! Sometimes they may not be able to write a letter for you, and that’s okay. It doesn’t reflect negatively on you as a learner or on them as a teacher.