As we count down to the first day of classes—just about a week away—many instructors are thinking about how to set the tone for a successful semester. If you’ve ever felt like the traditional first-day routine (reading the syllabus aloud, fielding a few questions, and dismissing early) falls a little flat, you’re not alone.
Luckily, there are creative ways to make that first class session more engaging—and more meaningful.
Dr. Joanne Ricevuto, a higher education leader and advocate for active learning, offers an innovative alternative: turn syllabus day into a community-building experience. Rather than simply delivering course content, you can design the first day to foster connections between students, introduce your teaching style, and cultivate a sense of belonging.
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