The first week of classes is exciting, stressful and certainly an adventure. It sets the tone for the school year and you’ll want to make sure you set the tone right. After you’ve done the 10 Things to Do The First Week of College, ensure you’re extra prepared by also prepping for your first week of classes.
1. Ensure you have the books and supplies necessary at the beginning and end of the week.
Before the week begins, check your syllabi and your bag to ensure you have the basic school supplies like folders, notebooks, highlighters and sticky notes. At the end of the week, go over all of your professor’s notes and syllabi once more and get the rest of the supplies you might need–usually the more specific supplies like textbooks or graphic calculators.
2. Set your alarms (for an extra early time).
Set your phone alarms for the entire week and allow yourself extra time to get ready and to find where your classrooms are. As the semester goes on you can gradually make this time a bit later as you become more comfortable. It’s always better to be early than to be late, especially for the first week of class!
3. Set your class schedule as your lock screen (and keep a copy in your backpack).
Ensure you have a schedule with the class time and the classroom location on you at all times. It’s good to keep a paper copy with you in case your phone dies.
4. Choose your seat carefully.
The safest bet is usually the middle of the classroom. If you have certain issues with seeing the board or if you plan on sleeping during that class (I don’t suggest it, but be honest with yourself here), sit accordingly. Even though these seats are mostly likely not assigned, but there tend to be “unofficial assigned seats” in college. Where you sit becomes your seat for the rest of the year. Pick a good one.
5. Choose your first week of class outfits.
Remember, you’ll be making a lot of first impressions on your classmates and professors! Choose shoes that are comfortable to walk in and an outfit that really reflects your style. This will save you stress during the week and time during the mornings.
6. Begin to establish routines.
In the first few classes, you’ll probably begin to receive assignments. Start to find times and places where you enjoy doing assignments and feel productive. Establishing routines in the beginning of the year when it comes to studying, reading and getting ready will make the year go a lot smoother.
{ Related: 12 Habits That’ll Improve Your Grades }
7. Turn on the charm.
Get ready to be a little extra extroverted this first week. In each class, challenge yourself to make small talk with at least one person. Bonus if you swap contacts with this person! It’s so easy, all you need to say is, “Hey, want to swap numbers? I feel like it’ll be good in case one of us misses class or something.” The person will surely say yes.
{ Related: The Ultimate Guide to Being Social in College }
8. Prepare your planner or organization system.
Whether you’re going digital or using a physical paper planner, start marking off key dates/events and create a color coding system. This can be really fun (and even relaxing) and it helps you to better picture the upcoming weeks and months.
How do you prepare for the first week of classes?
