The day is finally here! You have the perfect schedule, you are settled into your new room or apartment, and you have completed all of your beginning of term paperwork. Now you are ready to start classes. The first day can be a bit confusing and frustrating if you aren’t properly prepared. To keep from feeling overwhelmed, make sure to wake up early, have a refreshing shower, eat a good breakfast, and drink some coffee. You only have one first day, so here is how you can make sure it is a success:

Make sure you…

• Spent some time practicing going from one class to the next before the first day arrives. This helps you find out exactly where you are going and also gives you an idea of how long it takes to get to each destination.

• Meet at least one person in every class. While friends aren’t made in one day, every friendship starts with a conversation. Knowing people in your classes will provide you with a way to share notes, get vital information from when you were absent, and build a study group.

• Be organized. Have a separate organizer or folder for every class and write down as much information as you can. The first day of any class is full of information you will need later. Highlight course requirements on your syllabus and write all due dates into your organizer or calendar.

• Treasure your syllabi. At the end of the day, make a copy of every syllabus so you can carry one with you and keep one on your desk in your room.

• Get an immediate start. If the professor assigns any work or reading on the first day, make it your goal to at least start on it the first night. You don’t want to start the semester by falling behind.

• Be prepared. Take a light snack and a bottle of water to class. Most professors don’t mind you eating and drinking in class as long as you aren’t a distraction.

• Avoid the bookstore at all costs. The first day of classes are the worst time to go to the bookstore, and you’ll likely spend hours waiting in line. If you don’t already have your books, wait until the next day or look for local used textbook stores.

• Monitor your time. There are no bells to let you know when classes start or end. Make sure your watch or cell phone is set to the right time. It is also a good idea to keep a copy of your schedule on you as well as a copy in your wallet or purse and one in your room or apartment. Most of your instructors will be understanding if you are a little late the first day, but some can be harsh. Don’t start out by making a bad impression with the person responsible for grading your work.

• Relax, breathe, and enjoy your first day.

About the Author

Sara G. is a writer for BecomeaPoliceOfficer.com. Have you been asking yourself how to become a police officer? This site can really help you when it comes to making a decision about your education.