Dear Professors,

The first day of a new semester is the most important day of the year. The first week in total is also extremely important, but that single first day is make or break. That is you making your first impression on us, and us seeing for real what this next semester is going to be like sitting in your classroom. At that point, we have all the power. We can drop the class, switch into another topic, or even just switch out teachers. That first day of class we are the ones grading you. That being said, here is a list of things that may keep us around long enough for that first test

1. Introduce yourself

Yes, we would love to know your background and the extent of your degree, but you are also a human being. You have a life outside of hte classroom, interests and hobbies and friends and family. Giving us a small glimpse into that world, and the “non-professor” you will not only make us more comfortable but also make you appear more approachable.

2. Tell a joke

The first day of class is always awkward no matter what. It is up to you to break the ice, you are the leader here. So make an effort to get a laugh or smile from your audience to lighten the mood and keep them interested as you go through the most boring part of every semester, reading the syllabus.

3. Ask us to introduce ourselves

Or at the very least, take a roll call. Make some attempt to show that you actually care that we are sitting in your class and are interested in learning our names, no matter how long it may take you. Even ask us to say a fun fact! That not only helps you remember us better, but acts as an ice breaker in itself.

4. Go over the goal of the class

What is it about this class that makes it special? By the end of the semester, what is the main takeaway of the course, and what do we want to achieve as students? These are things we want to know, not only for our own success as we go but also to know that you have a direction in your teachings and an end goal for us.

5. Don't assign homework

There is absolutely no reason that any assignment should ever be due on the first day of class. No material was covered beforehand, and no interaction was had, so how can you give out work? It's not fair and it is not going to help your likability. Do everyone a favor, yourself included and save the work for the rest of the semester.