Key relationships could help your college admissions chances

You are probably aware of the benefits of making professional connections. Many people find work in their fields after graduating thanks to relationships they formed with their college professors, internship supervisors or work associates. According to The Huffington Post, positive relationships can also help when you're applying to colleges.

The news source explained that the connections you make with your high school teachers and guidance counselors are invaluable to your college acceptance, whether you're a freshman or a senior. As a general rule of thumb, it's always beneficial to be respectful and personable with these individuals. However, relationship building is especially important in laying the foundation for your future education.

To make a lasting impression, the source explained that you'll need to go above and beyond maintaining a respectful demeanor. Teachers look for exceptional enthusiasm for a subject, great teamwork abilities and effective communication skills. When the time comes to ask for a recommendation, seek out teachers who have noticed these qualities in you over the years.

Be sure to ask for the recommendation well in advance to allow the writer enough time to compose a high-quality letter that addresses your skills and character. As always, remember to follow up with a thank-you note. Oftentimes, teachers write these recommendations after the work day, so a handwritten thank-you note is a great way to express your appreciation for their time.

In addition to grades and test scores, professional recommendations are some of the most important factors of a college application. In fact, in a 2011 survey conducted by the National Association for College Admission Counseling, 58.4 percent of colleges polled considered them to be of moderate importance or of considerable importance when deciding on an applicant. Make sure your recommendations make a compelling case for your acceptance into your top choice school.