Want an A and a Recommendation Letter? Here’s What Professors Really Want from You
How to Survive (and Even Succeed) In a College Classroom written by Dr. Maria Zaitseva
Let’s be honest: most college students want two things by the end of a semester — a solid grade and a glowing letter of recommendation. But here’s the thing: it takes more than just showing up to class and submitting your assignments on time to earn either.
If you really want to stand out in your professor’s memory (for the right reasons), you need to understand what they are actually looking for from students. Spoiler alert: it’s not “Hey Prof!” emails at 2 AM.
Based on Dr. Maria Zaitseva’s sharp, relatable, and must-read guide, How to Survive (and Even Succeed) in a College Classroom, here’s a candid look behind the faculty curtain — and a roadmap to thriving in college.
1. Show Up and Stay Awake
It seems obvious, but it’s often overlooked. As Dr. Zaitseva bluntly puts it:
“Do your best to stay awake during class. If you think that internet browsing during class is bad, it does not come even close to falling asleep right there in front of your professor.”
One student even snored in the front row during a lecture on terrorism financing. Guess who didn’t get a recommendation letter?
Pro Tip: Sit near the front, stay engaged, and save the naps for after class.
2. Be a Planner
Professors love students who plan ahead. Whether it’s managing deadlines or anticipating course requirements, proactive planning signals maturity.
Dr. Zaitseva recounts:
“I really need to take this class… I need it to graduate.”
The catch? The student says this four months before graduation — about an intro class.
Pro Tip: Email your professor early if you expect any issues. Bonus points for a respectful tone and clear communication.
3. Participation Matters (But Be Smart About It)
You might think that asking lots of questions equals participation. But professors can tell when you’re just filling air time.
“Talking about the latest sports stats in a lecture about unmanned armed drones is not what your professor wants to do. Trust me.”
Pro Tip: Speak when you can add value. Tie your comments directly to the material.
4. Be Honest When You Mess Up
Professors know that life happens, but they also have a built-in radar for excuses.
One student once admitted:
“I am not yet done, so I thought I’d simply try to ask. I honestly have no excuse.”
He got the extension. Why? Honesty.
Pro Tip: Respect your professor’s time. Be transparent, not dramatic.
5. Say Thank You Like You Mean It
Want a recommendation letter that actually says something meaningful? Be the student who leaves a positive impression, and then says thank you.
“Handwritten thank-you notes make an impression,” says Dr. Zaitseva.
Even a sincere email after class or a thank-you follow-up after receiving a letter goes a long way.
Pro Tip: Gratitude builds relationships. Professors remember that.
Want to Know More About How to Win in College?
Dr. Zaitseva’s book, How to Survive (and Even Succeed) in a College Classroom, is a practical, witty, and brutally honest guide that every student should read. Whether you’re a freshman or a senior, this book offers the insider tips professors wish they could tell you on the first day of class.
Your degree is important — but so is the way you earn it.
This book shows you how to earn respect, connections, and opportunities along the way.
Get your book by this amazon link :- https://a.co/d/4TqEDrP
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