College professors, just like students, experience a surge of excitement before the first day of school. The initial class carries a sense of hope and potential that cannot be replicated. While instructors are eager to connect with their students and engage in discussions, there are logistical and procedural matters that need to be addressed first. Typically, a portion of the first class is dedicated to reviewing the syllabus and explaining how to submit assignments. This can result in an overwhelming amount of information being presented quickly. However, there are several steps you can take before the first class to feel prepared and reduce anxiety. We reached out to professors for their recommendations on what students should do before that initial meeting. Here are their suggestions:
1. Familiarize yourself with the syllabus and any assigned pre-reading materials, if available. Becoming acquainted with the syllabus is the most effective way to set yourself up for success in the class. It provides vital information about the schedule, policies, and procedures. According to Nadia Singh, a biology professor at the University of Oregon, reading the syllabus helps students navigate the class more effectively while demonstrating respect for their professor’s and classmates’ time.
2. Order the required books for the course. Even if there’s no assigned reading for the first class, it’s crucial to have the books ready for future assignments. Anna Rollins, an English professor at Marshall University, suggests that students order their textbooks before the first day of class to prevent falling behind and to enable active participation in class discussions.
3. Access your university email account. Regularly checking and knowing how to utilize your university email is essential as it serves as the primary channel of communication with your professor. Missing important announcements can be avoided by checking your email regularly. Professors often send a welcome email before the first class, containing vital information such as the syllabus and required pre-class reading.
4. Prepare a game plan. The first day nerves are not exclusive to students; professors also experience a range of emotions. Khalid White, a professor of African-American studies, advises students to enter the class with a game plan and be well-prepared. Identifying your goals for taking the course and considering how it aligns with your career aspirations or personal interests can reinforce your belief that you belong and deserve to be in the class. White also suggests sitting up front in the classroom and taking the time to introduce yourself to the professor after the first class.
5. Commit to starting strong and staying on top of assignments. Falling behind on reading assignments is a common pitfall that students unintentionally encounter at the beginning of the semester. To prevent this, completing the required readings is crucial. It’s essential to notify your professor promptly if accessing the materials presents any challenges. Successful students also possess strong organizational skills, planning ahead, and utilizing calendars to manage their time effectively, says Rollins.
6. Embrace a positive growth mindset. Alongside the necessary resources and assignment plans, students need the right mindset and attitude for success. White emphasizes the importance of self-confidence, positive self-talk, and cultivating an “I can” attitude. He explains that these skills can be developed just like academic ones and are crucial for success. Singh also highlights the significance of a growth mindset, which believes that effort, not innate talent alone, leads to skill mastery. Singh observes that her successful students share an attitude of effort, consistency, and resilience.
7. Approach the course with curiosity and an open mind. R.J. Thompson, a professor teaching various subjects, encourages students to view each course as a transformative journey. He wants students to feel comfortable taking risks, experimenting, and learning through trial and error. According to Thompson, some of his best students were those willing to step outside their comfort zones to discover new aspects of themselves. Singh adds that students should challenge their own perspectives and bring curiosity to their classes. While the development of skills and identification of goals may take time, curiosity is a quality that students should cultivate to derive maximum value from their coursework.
In summary, taking these proactive steps before the first class can enhance your preparedness, reduce anxiety, and contribute to a successful academic journey. By familiarizing yourself with the syllabus, ordering textbooks early, accessing your email regularly, developing a game plan, staying organized, and adopting a growth mindset, you can start the semester on a strong note. Additionally, embracing curiosity and remaining open-minded will enable you to fully engage with the subject matter and discover new aspects of yourself. So, get ready to embark on a transformative learning experience!
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