Don't hesitate to ask questions about subjects covered in class. Take advantage of office hours. Remember, the faculty are a resource outside of formal instruction time. That professor has little to write on the recommendation form, other than the grade. Avoid this problem by getting to know your professors.
Squeaky doors get the grease, as the saying goes.
Don't listen to anyone who tells you it isn't cool to talk to professors. The student had graduated with a degree in another college, and was back in school taking all of the courses he now realized he should have taken while he was here but was too myopic to do so. He had been out in the business world and realized how much he had missed, and how much he was handicapped career-wise by his narrow education. We urge the same thing, especially as it relates to biology. In many cases your instructors will use the BLC to post information, readings, videos, old exams, and other material relevant to your courses.