Don’t Worry First Class Only Happens Once

By Michele Brannon Hamilton

Starting college (and high school) can be overwhelming at first. You walk into a huge lecture hall or get lost on your way to (or in) an unknown building on an unfamiliar campus.  You feel like a little dot in the room. Relax, just remember that everyone else feels like you, too. They’re all there for the first time…just like you. Realize this and you’re one step ahead of all of them.   

• Take a minute to introduce yourself to the person beside you. Too shy? Ask for the time, borrow a pencil, or ask if you’re in the right room. You just want to break the ice so it doesn’t really matter what you say. Just say it. Once you get their attention, here are a few questions you could pop-up:  Are you a freshman?  Do you dorm?  Where are you from?  How do you like the campus?  Did you buy books/supplies for this class already?
• Sit near the front so you can see the board properly. You will get a better view and be able to concentrate on the instructor at the front of the room. You may even forget about the other 200 people sitting behind you.
• Put your hand up if you miss something or ask the person beside you – the one you introduced yourself to at the beginning of class. Chances are someone else missed the point, too.  Refrain from asking too many questions on the first day though.  You’ll have plenty of more days in class to understand all of these new topics. 
• Jot any questions down on a piece of paper. You can always ask questions after class if you aren’t comfortable asking during class.  This also gives you a good excuse to visit your new professors during their office hours.
• Introduce yourself to the instructor or professor at the end of the lecture. Professors might not remember everyone but they will recognize someone who took the time to say hello. When it’s time to talk about exams, you’ll already feel comfortable talking to the professor.  It helps you develop a relationship with someone who could offer to become your mentor or advisor. 

Don’t let a new school overwhelm you. You’re not alone. Talk to someone and make a friend. When it comes time for projects and exams, having a friend or study group can make all the difference in the world. Then sit back, relax, and enjoy your first day of class. You should be proud of yourself for having made it this far.