Teachers are the backbone of our education system, and shape your time as a student in a multitude of ways. Today we’re going to go over why–and how–you can make the most of interactions with educators.
Academic Support
Teachers often provide numerous opportunities for academic support, such as office hours, correspondence over email and additional resources. Demonstrating interest in receiving further academic assistance proves your commitment to the class and your overall education, leaving a good impression that opens up future connection.
Even so, balancing academic support with personal effort in classwork is crucial to succeeding in class. For this reason, utilizing a variety of resources to engage in learning can lead to the best results for both your grade and interactions with teachers.
College Admissions
In the college application process, letters of recommendation offer a unique insight into the character of applicants. These details—though hidden in your transcript and test scores—appear in the writing of the teachers you closely interact with. In this sense, admissions officers rely on the unbiased outsider perspectives of teachers who can attest to your character and verify the value you bring to a college community.
Additionally, in considerations for award nominees and further educational opportunities, references from educational figures are important. To explore further academic pursuits, connecting with educators is a great place to start.
College and Professional Benefits
Similar to college admissions, recommendations from professors are crucial to grad school applicants in demonstrating character beyond academic records. Further, guidance from professors can shape the major path, academic pursuits and professional interests of college students as they prepare to enter the job market or higher education.
After graduation from college, students often enjoy keeping in touch with their former professors. After all, professors are interesting people with a wealth of knowledge in their field–getting to know them can bring value to your life beyond academics.
Interpersonal Connection
Forming connections with educators provides meaningful social ties that extend far beyond your time in high school or college. For many teachers, interactions with students are a valuable part of their everyday time teaching. By choosing to engage with educators–who knowingly dedicate their careers to supporting your education–you have a chance to bring meaning to both your interpersonal connections and learning.
How to Connect with Educators
In a high school setting, meaningful participation in class activities is a great first step to interacting with teachers. Outside the classroom, teachers take on roles in extracurricular activities such as sports, clubs and academic spaces. Taking advantage of these opportunities can help foster social connection with educators throughout your high school experience.
In college, office hours are a great way to receive academic support and engage with professors. Showing interest in the class content, the professor’s area of specialty or getting involved with their research can further your relationship with the professor. In casual contexts, simple acts like staying after class for brief chats, and remaining connected even after completing the class builds long-lasting relationships with educators.
Thank you to Milo D. for editing this article!