Dear Abby,

I really like this guy and I am getting signals that he likes me too. We hang out a lot and have a lot of fun together. But lately, I feel like he may not feel the same anymore. He never texts me back and finds excuses to get out of spending time together. I’m always the one to text him and try to make plans, but he keeps giving me the cold shoulder.We are supposed to go to Homecoming together, but I’m not sure if that will happen anymore since he keeps avoiding me. What should I do? Do I still try to put forth effort into this relationship, or drop it completely? – Anonymous

Dear Anonymous,

Getting mixed signals can be really hard to navigate but as long as you stay level headed you can figure it out. You have to be able to communicate with him so you can feel out the situation. Going into this conversation can be a little nerve wrecking and you have to be aware that it might not turn out the way you want it to. You have to keep your own happiness and well being at the top of your priorities and you being the only one in the relationship putting in effort is not good for you. When you talk to him, make sure to bring up homecoming and ask him if he still wants to go with you. If it doesn’t work out and he doesn’t want to go anymore, you should still go. Invite some of your friends and make it a really fun night to get your mind off of him.

Xoxo,

Abby

Dear Abby,

How do I approach my teachers about recommendations? -Anonymous

Dear Anonymous,

With college quickly approaching there is a lot to do, and it sounds like you’re on track. It’s important to ask for teacher recommendations early in the year so that the teacher has plenty of time to write a great recommendation letter. To go about getting a recommendation you should pick the right teacher, ask them politely, and thank them. It may seem intimidating but don’t be scared.

The first step in getting the right recommendation is to pick the right teacher. It is common that students lay low in class and don’t go above and beyond, and then go back a year or more later and ask for a recommendation. Most teachers don’t necessarily want to turn you away because they know how important it is to you; but they can’t write a meaningful recommendation unless they really know you. Make sure you choose someone who likes you and who you feel like you’ve really bonded with. It’s also important to know that the teacher you ask can teach any subject, it does not just have to be an English teacher.

After you’ve chosen the right teacher, be sure to ask them formally. Rather than just going into their room on your free time and throwing the question in their face, send them an email. In this email you should provide a copy of your resume with a description of your work inside and outside of school, ensuring that this teacher really knows you and your accomplishments. It is also important that you ask them at least two weeks in advanced. Waiting until last minute makes you seem unprofessional and gives them little time to write a well written letter.

Finally, after you’ve gotten your teacher to write this letter, be sure to thank them. Write them a thank you note. What they are writing could potentially be very helpful in getting you accepted into college.

In addition to the letter of recommendation, good luck in applying to colleges! I hope you get accepted to the school of your dreams.

Xoxo,

Abby

Dear Abby,

Is it normal to want to drop out? -Anonymous

Dear Anonymous,

It is completely normal to want to drop out of school. I would lie if I said that the thought hasn’t run through my mind more than once. The important thing is that you don’t let this thought blind you from trying in school. As tempting as it is to not have to deal with the stress of homework and tests, it’s not worth the life you’ll live because of it. Success stories such as Aretha Franklin’s, who dropped out at age fifteen, or Steve Jobs’, who actually dropped out of college due to the cost, are rare. So yes, it is normal to want to drop out, but it’s also important to stay committed to your school work so that you succeed in the future!

Xoxo,

Abby