Years ago, when I was in elementary and middle school, other kids sometimes called me "weird" because I was really involved in my drawing. But they also called me "the artist", and that made me feel cool and gave me self-confidence in other school subjects besides just art class. In high school the label of artist became official when I started drawing cartoons for the school newspaper. Quite honestly, my drawing skills helped me get through school.

Even if you don't think you're an artist, drawing can help you make friends, impress your teachers, and get better grades. Here's how:

1. Make Friends

People are curious about drawing. Whether it's a doodle on a notebook, or a picture for a school assignment, your drawings will catch people's interest.

Let's say, you take the time to finish a drawing of a super hero, and put it up on the bulletin board for everyone to see. Maybe some students will think it's weird, others might think it's cool. But the fact is, they're TALKING about YOUR drawing. They've noticed your unique drawing skills. It's up to you to take it from there.

You don't have to be an artist to talk about drawing with other students. Remember, most students enjoyed making drawings when they were young kids. They'll be interested in talking with you about it. The conversation could be an open door to starting a friendship. Who knows, maybe you'll inspire them to start drawing again!

Having a common interest is important when making new friends at school. Drawing is a pastime that many people enjoy. If you meet other students who really like to draw, consider organizing an art club. You can do creative stuff together such as visual art projects for school events, or making comic books to share with friends.

And don't forget, friends are always thrilled to receive their portrait, hand-drawn and signed by you. A great way to make friends is to draw your Valentines cards instead of buying them.

2. Impress Your Teachers

Your teacher may or may not be impressed with your sketch of the race car that everyone is passing around during science studies. But chances are good she'll be very impressed with your drawing of a dragonfly to share during a class discussion of insects.

Your teacher enjoys reading science reports that are well-written and interesting to look at. When your teacher enjoys your report, your chances of getting a better grade are greatly improved. Carefully planned drawings make information easy to understand and enjoyable to read.

Although drawing doesn't take the place of writing skills, it can show your teacher you understand a subject. When it's difficult to think of words to write, a drawing can make your ideas visible. Drawing is a form of visual language that helps express your thoughts to your teacher. Effective communication with your teacher improves your understanding of a subject and helps you to become a successful student.

Okay, all this sounds wonderful. But the burning question that's on your mind is, "How can drawing help improve my grades?"

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