Teachers are the foundation of a school. As students, we should be looking to build meaningful relationships with our teachers in order to promote academic success and personal growth. For instance, if we enjoy a teacher’s company, we are more likely to pay attention and enjoy their class.
“It may be a motivating factor,” science teacher Mr. Dick O’Hern said. “If you enjoy going to class X, then you’re probably a little more likely to be dialed in on a given day.”
Indeed, the focus that comes with respecting and admiring a certain teacher can outweigh even the most banal lessons. Thus, a primary step you should make in achieving academic success should be to connect with and build relationships with your teachers.
An important thing to remember when fostering beneficial relationships with teachers is to not take it too seriously. Teachers are also human beings, with their own lives and worries. If students only see their teachers as sources of authority, it’s much harder to enjoy their classes. Have fun with your classes: participate actively and don’t be afraid to fail. Be interested in your teachers and show them that you care!
In terms of finding the balance between respecting teachers’ authority and feeling comfortable enough to reach out for help, it’s important to be honest, open and vulnerable. By having these qualities, you can communicate more effectively and create an environment where you feel comfortable going to your teacher for help.
Sometimes, there might be something going on in your life that you don’t feel comfortable sharing with a teacher. But if you have a relationship with that teacher, you can let them know that you won’t be at your best and they will be more likely to be lenient and understanding. Through communication, you can save yourself a lot of stress and unnecessary anxiety.
“As a teacher, I want to know something about my students, right?” Mr. O’Hern said. “I try to find a little bit about them when I can, but I just feel like it helps the process of education.”
At its core, teaching is a partnership. Teachers want to help, and building a connection makes that easier. By prioritizing and building relationships with teachers, you can vastly improve not only your academic journey but your overall GA experience.
You should not neglect the opportunities given here at GA. Instead, take advantage of the support you’re provided with and learn to appreciate and acknowledge your teachers!