Develop teacher relationships

Overview

Building genuine relationships with teachers benefits you academically AND prepares you for future recommendation letters.

Why Teacher Relationships Matter

• Better classroom experience
• More comfortable asking for help
• Recommendation letters (later)
• Mentorship and guidance
• Letters of support for opportunities

How to Build Relationships

In Class

• Participate in discussions
• Ask thoughtful questions
• Show genuine interest in the subject
• Put effort into assignments
• Be respectful and engaged

Outside Class

• Visit office hours with questions
• Discuss topics beyond the curriculum
• Share your interests and goals
• Thank them for their help

Communication Tips

• Email professionally
• Be specific in your questions
• Respect their time
• Follow through on their suggestions

What NOT to Do

• Brown-nosing or obvious flattery
• Only engaging when you need something
• Being disrespectful to get attention
• Ignoring their feedback

Building Authentic Connections

The best relationships are genuine:

• Show interest in learning, not just grades
• Be yourself
• Appreciate their expertise
• Accept feedback gracefully

Thinking Ahead

By senior year, you'll need 2-3 teacher recommendation letters. Starting genuine relationships now gives teachers more to write about!

Encouraging Reminder

Teachers chose their profession because they care about students. Most are happy to connect with engaged learners!