High school students are always using their resources, such as family and friends as well as social media, to help them find answers and help them out where they need it. But many students don’t realize that a very important resource is someone they see five times a week for an hour a day: their teachers.
The information, knowledge, and wisdom your teachers can give you is invaluable and you should make it a prerogative of building a strong relationship with them.
By doing so, you can reap the benefits and here are a few tips to help you out.
- College Letters of Recommendation
Securing an awesome letter of recommendation is based on your relationship with your teachers. It is up to you to make sure your teachers know you as a person that goes beyond what you accomplish in their class. A great way to achieve this is to start conversations with your instructors. Ask them questions during class, stop by during the break, or make it a point of visiting them during lunch. By doing this, you open the line of communication, and before you know it, they will know your interests, what sports you play, and what organizations you are involved in. This will make that letter of recommendation much more personal and that will be beneficial to you.
- Professional and Networking Connections
Remember that your teachers belong to communities that extend beyond the classroom. They know a lot of people with a vast variety of jobs. They might just know someone who can land you a scholarship, get you an internship, or get you a job. In addition, your teachers may be able to introduce you to volunteering in the community or even help you get involved in opportunities that could benefit your intended major. And, it is even possible that one of your teachers may have attended a college that is on your list.
- Source of Mentorship
Teachers can be great mentors. You can learn a great deal about how to succeed in life and in the classroom through your instructors. As a teenager, you undoubtedly have gone through your share of hardships and having a teacher who acts as a mentor or guide can help you through some troubled times. In addition, your teachers have a wealth of experience and by tapping into that knowledge will definitely be beneficial for you.
- Source of Friendship
The majority of teachers teach because they love it; they thoroughly enjoy working with young adults and want to see them succeed. Securing a friendship with a teacher may not only help you get into college, but may help you later on in your career.