Though it is hard to believe that the first week of college is quickly approaching, first-generation students will soon have their first collegiate experience. Many first-generation students wonder what the first week of college is going to be like—How challenging will their courses be? What supplies should be brought to class? What’s a syllabus? This reacculturation (Bruffee, 1999) process will happen immediately as soon as students enter the college environment.
So, what’s the first week of college like and what should students expect? Students might be pleasantly surprised to quickly see how much their instructors enjoy teaching and really enjoy working with students. Often, first-generation students have heard that college instructors will only view them as a number and not have any interest in getting to know them. It is common for first-generation students to feel like they will not have the opportunity to form a professional relationship with their instructors, but that is not the case. Students are encouraged to get to know their instructors and to let the instructors get to know them. But, students are the ones who need to initiate those relationships, so stop by to visit with instructors during their office hours.
Speaking of office hours, full-time instructors maintain five office hours weekly. This time is dedicated to visiting with students; no appointment is necessary. Reasons to visit with instructors during office hours may include questions about a class lecture, study tips for the next test, review of class notes for suggestions, discussion of majors related to the instructor’s discipline, get to know each other better, etc.
On the first day of each class, students will receive a syllabus/policy statement from each instructor. The syllabus/policy statement includes office hours, office location, classroom policies (such as participation points, late paper policy, and make up exam policy), universities policies, and course requirements. What’s also great about the syllabus is students will know during the first week major dates of importance, including exams, papers, presentations, along with readings and other noteworthy information. While all assignments may not be listed on the syllabus, students will have a strong awareness of the course load each week. Students are strongly encouraged to chart out their assignments in a planner or other time management system.
While the first day of class can be stressful, it can also be exhilarating. If possible, find classrooms before the first day so as to reduce any anxiety that comes with trying to navigate across campus. Bring a notebook and pen/pencil to class and be prepared not only to learn but also to make friends. Welcome to Missouri State!
Bruffee, K. A. (1999). Collaborative learning: Higher education, interdependence, and the authority of knowledge (2nd ed.). Baltimore, MD: Johns Hopkins University Press.