First week

As a professor, the first week of university is always an exciting and dynamic time.

New faces fill the classroom, eager to dive into their studies, while returning students often bring a sense of confidence and familiarity. During this initial week, my primary goal is to create an engaging and welcoming environment, one that sets the tone for the entire semester.

This involves outlining the course expectations, introducing key concepts, and fostering a space where students feel comfortable asking questions and participating. I also take time to get to know the students, understanding their academic backgrounds and aspirations, which helps tailor my teaching approach. While there’s always a sense of energy and anticipation in the air, I also recognize the nervousness some students may feel, so I aim to ease those concerns with a balance of structure, encouragement, and openness. The first week is foundational—it’s when I begin to build relationships and set students on a path for success.