I am not talking about sucking up to your professors and trying to get ahead by being a kiss-up. No one (not even most teachers, I’m assuming) likes a suck-up student. However, getting close with your instructor can not only help you in class but can also give you opportunities outside of school.

In my 15 years of education, I have had many teachers. Some I disliked or didn’t have an opinion on. They were just my teachers. Some, though, became even more than that for me. Some of my teachers became friends, mentors, role models and people to go to for advice. Those instructors (some of whom I still talk to or are friends with on Facebook) gave me incredible guidance in and outside the classroom.

Getting close with your teachers usually makes class more fun. If you’re being taught by your older and wiser friend as opposed to some boring tyrant in front of the room, you tend to learn better or at least, pay attention more.

All of my favorite classes and ones that I’ve done well in have been taught by teachers who I got to know better. I didn’t know every little detail about them nor did they know everything about me, but it was still a friendship. Being able to crack jokes with professors and teachers makes school so much more entertaining and feeling comfortable in the classroom also helps you learn. It becomes easier to ask questions, raise your hand and participate.

In addition, another benefit is that your teacher gets to know you better. At some point, you may want or need them to write you a letter of recommendation. It is much easier to write about someone you know than it is to write about someone you simply see sitting in class every day.

That personal relationship with those who advise and teach you can offer you lots of different opportunities. Especially in college, many professors work on projects outside of class. Most people would rather work with their friends than others. If you’re lucky, you might get to assist your professor with what they are doing. Not only is this an extremely beneficial learning opportunity, but it also gives you resume-building experience that could lead to a job in the future.

I am not saying that every teacher has to be your best friend. In fact, that’s kind of weird. But, if you like one or two of your instructors enough, get to know them to the point where you can make jokes and be comfortable around them. Not only can this make classes more entertaining and give you great career opportunities, but it can also create a beneficial long-time friend.

Thank you to all my teachers who have become my friend either by choice or because we are forced to see each other all the time. You make learning fun!