During the first class session, students begin to form expectations about the class and you as an instructor.  Make the most of your first class by following these guidelines:

First Impressions Count

• Be positive, convey enthusiasm, and strive to provide accurate and complete information.
• Make sure everyone has a place to site and can see.  Expect late arrivals and welcome them, too.
• Write your name and title of the course on the white or chalk board as some students might be in the wrong classroom.
• Pronounce your name clearly and tell students what you want them to call you.
• Tell them something about yourself so they get to know you as a person.
• Beware of the impression your clothing conveys.
• Prepare, prepare, prepare!  Smile, smile, smile!

Get to Know Your Students

• Learn students' name.  Have them memorized within two weeks.
• Unless it is a large class, begin by having each student speak.  For example, have each say his or her name, hometown, major, and a favorite class last semester.
• Include a question related to the course.
• As students talk, interact by asking a question and showing interest.
• Formalize introductory information by having them write it on an index card.  Collect the cards and use them to learn names. 
• Do not get too personal or ask embarrassing questions!  Refer to The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) link on the gradate student resources homepage.
• Consider a seating chart using the class list from the registrar and account for students who aren't registered.
• Expect late enrollees who miss the first class.
• Plan activities that help students get to know you and each other the first few sessions.

Communicate Course Content and Expectations

• Distribute the course syllabus and schedule.
• Ahead of time, decide what and how much you are going to say and how you will present the syllabus.  Some instructors go through it line by line; others schedule a mandatory office hour visit to talk about it.
• Pay particular attention to grading, the attendance policy, and information crucial for the next class session.
• Have students do something related to course content:  a short inventory, a brief experiment, or a small group exercise.