Making the Most out of High School, Tip #3

Tip #3 Appreciate your teachers.

It's important that your teachers know you, like you, and want you to succeed. And, believe me, that doesn't happen by chance. Your attitude and your actions have everything to do with it. So...

Greet your teacher when you walk into class. Say "good-bye" on your way out. Say "thank you" if your teacher helps you, stays after school to answer your question, or gives a particularly inspiring lecture. Nominate your teacher for an award. Send your teacher a thank-you note. Give your teacher a gift or card at the end of the year. Bake a cake and put it in the teacher's lounge.

If you take the time to build relationships with your teachers, it will pay off in a big way in future years. They may write stunning letters of recommendation for you, nominate you for awards and scholarships, or refer you to your first big job.