I think it really helps to find some way to view the subject in a way that is interesting to you. For example, I had to read a biography in a history class that was so boring. The events surrounding the person's life were interesting but the biography itself was so dry. I had to force myself to skim through it. However, I love psychology. I tried to analyze the characters' motives and actions from a psychological standpoint. I ended up writing my term paper on the psychology of a dictator and how childhood experiences can so strongly influence adult behavior.

I agree that it also helps A LOT if you develop a relationship with your teacher. This is not as easy to do at the university level unless you go to a really small school. However, if you can get to know your teachers or professors, it makes the class more ... relatable? In high school, I developed some very strong relationships with teachers (I graduated by I still am in touch with them). Learning about their passion for the subject and how they fell in love with it - their enthusasim was infectious. I don't think that you should strive for good grades because you fear disappointing your teacher. I think the best work always happens when you do it for you. I also think success means more when you can be proud of yourself for achieving something that you wanted to do.