The old adage goes "Don't judge a book by its cover." Well, the reality is that we're not books. We're people, and the initial response that we get based off of a first impression sets up the basis to which we judge and approach others when we first meet them. This pertains to all aspects of life such as meeting that person that sits next to you in class, being introduced to your friend's best friend, meeting your girlfriend's parents, etc.

The other day, I was sitting in my English 102A "Arthurian Literature" class. Sounds dry, am I right? I walked into class with the idea that if there was a class that I'd consider dropping, it'd be this one, just based on the merit of how dry and challenging the course seemed to be.

However, the professor in that class was witty, funny and extremely passionate about the Arthurian Literature. It baffles me how someone could be so interested about the likes of King Arthur and Sir Lancelot. What surprised me even more is that I left that first day of class looking forward to our next meeting. As to whether I will feel that way when I go for our next scheduled meeting is unsure, but the impression that the professor made on me in that first meeting gave me a reason to not just come back, but also look forward to come back. Strange to say for a class covering the topic of medieval literature.

Although it is true that we shouldn't premise our thoughts about a person or thing based on our first impressions, it is only human nature to do so. The moment we see something, we process that thought and make judgements on it. In particular with first impressions, those ideas become the basis on which we judge from the very beginning, which is why they're generally the ones that stick with us most. It becomes the lens to which we make assessments with.

The interesting thing to point out too is that generally, our first impressions are correct. They're not as superficial as everyone leads you to believe. Based off of the merits of body language, mannerisms, and expressions, we create this image of someone that for the most part is close to who they are.

While there is more to people than just the initial response you get, that response goes a long way in creating or preventing possible connections with others. I know for me personally I come off as shy and quiet, but as you get to know me, I open up and become someone that isn't just the person taking notes next to you.

Although first impressions aren't everything, they are a big deal and should be treated as such.