How to Ask for a Reference from Your Teacher

Different expressions of laughter, sadness, nervousness and excitement were painted on the faces of students after graduation. I was one of them five years ago. I actually experienced all of those mixed feelings but the most intensified emotion I felt was being excited to find a good and stable job ASAP!

So I went on-line searching for jobs; I looked for postings in our community and asked around if there were any slots I could fit in. I was too eager that time; well, this is how a fresh graduate would actually feel. And then, some helpful friends advised me to put good references to my resume, most preferably from my school professors. And I thought, "Gosh! Sir! Ma'am! I guess we have to meet again!"

So that night, I went over the list of my teachers and wisely chose the best three names I will put in to my resume. They were picked according to three categories: first, the one who gave me the highest grade. Then, I highlighted the most passionate teacher towards his/her students. And lastly, whom we considered our friend even after class hours.

So the following day, I woke up early and went to school to see if they were available. While I was walking, I rehearsed my lines regarding what to tell them. Luckily, to end the day, I got three nodding approvals from the best teachers I had. And I would be very much happy to share tips and guides on how to approach your teachers in order to get the best recommendation for whatever purpose you need it to: job application or college admission.

Prepare yourself

It is advisable to leave a good impression on your teacher during the first day in school. To get the best recommendation, you must give your best in the class also. I don't mean that you must be the class valedictorian,but at least show your teacher that you're a dedicated student through the following:

Attend classes regularly, avoid getting late as mush as possible

Try to participate during class discussion

Do your assignments and projects

Avoid getting in to trouble

Be polite to your teacher

Just remember that you will reap a good harvest when you plant a good quality of seeds.

Prepare your teacher

Try to contact first your teacher; with the advent of technology, you can call or e-mail your teacher to set for an appointment. This way, you will be assured that your teacher is really available during that time for he/she might be busy for this day or on leave during that month. A good timing will prevent any hassle on his/her part and on your part too. Also, you will have enough time to discuss things.

Teacher-student reunion

On the day of your appointment, be at your best, be presentable and be the first to arrive; it is best that you're the one waiting than your teacher himself/herself. This will show that you are really serious for that meeting.

Bring all the necessary files (like copy of grades, your best graded project, exam or assignment fro him/her, etc.) needed that will help your teacher recall and evaluate your performance. You may remember your teacher, but your teacher may not recall the same thing because he/she ecncountered many students per school year. Even though you created a strong bond and a constant communication with your teacher, it is still necessary to show him/her your records for a more accurate evaluation.

During your conversation, be honest and straightforward for what you are asking for and for what are you going to use this for. This will help your teacher create the best and most-suited recommendation for you.

Be appreciative

At the end of conversation, do not ever forget to say a sincere "thank you" to your teacher so that the next time you will approach him/her, he/she will readily grant your request.

Remember that ending the conversation doesn't mean that you will just stop there. Even though you already got the job or have been accepted to college, you should take time to show regular appreciation to your teacher. It may be a simple note or token and doesn't need to be very expensive. Simple thoughtfulness will constantly remind your teacher that you're really worth the time and recommendation he/she had given you.