Gratitude
None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.
If you only read a few
Tell a teacher that their smile made a difference to you.
It can make them very happy.
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Do not feel bad about accepting treats if you are honest about your finances, but do not expect them.
You might not have gone otherwise, making it a nice treat.
- Definitely don't expect it.
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Say goodbye when leaving a job or program so people miss you and bridges are not burned.
Leaving without saying goodbye can make it hard for others to fill your position and may close doors for returning.
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Send emails to former teachers thanking them for their work and filling them in on your life.
Every reply started with 'wow this made my day'; it is easy to do but teachers don't get the appreciation they deserve.
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- Upon graduating high school, send supportive teachers a letter and a small present.1
- Send thank-you emails or letters to inspirational teachers shortly after high school or college ends.1
Call your child's teacher to build rapport and judge their demeanor.
Teachers often try harder for students when parents are supportive, and the call helps you understand what your child is dealing with.
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Show appreciation to professors who help you, as hearing from former students improves their day.
Hearing from an old student makes their entire day.
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Hand-deliver thank you notes to professors if possible.
It adds to the gesture.
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Write a draft of your own recommendation letter for the teacher to edit and sign.
It saves them time and ensures they emphasize the features you want highlighted.
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Send handwritten thank-you letters to university lecturers.
They are kept as reminders of great students, help on rough days, and can support tenure cases.
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Express gratitude to teachers on random days rather than only on required holidays to give it more meaning, though being remembered on both random and special days is also nice.
Doing it on non-required days adds real meaning.
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Update teachers on your success after landing a job or internship they helped secure.
Detailing what you learned is thoughtful and goes a long way.
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If you feel uncomfortable expressing deep gratitude, practice sending thank-you notes to build the habit.
It helps convey a level of gratitude that simple words may not, benefiting both the sender and receiver.
one person who lived it
Keep contact information for standout teachers and coaches to send personalized updates when children reach major milestones.
Such gestures carry significant thought and meaning.
- Teachers may not share personal contact details; contact via the school if necessary.
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Be aware that emailing a retired professor may result in the message being forwarded to their replacement.
This can cause awkwardness.
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Fill out course evaluations with accurate scores and written feedback.
Evaluations help decide salary, tenure positions, and future jobs for teaching assistants.
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Give baked goods to teachers, checking for dietary restrictions first.
They are generally well-received and appreciated.
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