Independence, responsibility, promptness, and sense of adventure are skills/traits that will suit you well on your first day of college. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Check our First Day Essentials Video Playlist below.
  
  
• Find out ahead how your class will meet. Will it meet on Zoom, Canvas, or by other means? Email your instructor if you do not hear from them before the term starts.
  
  
• Use the SMC GO app to help you navigate the campus--from finding services to where they are located.
  
  
• Arrive to your class a few minutes early. Arriving late may set a bad impression.
  
  
• Test your technology! If joining live by Zoom, ensure your camera and mics work.
  
  
• First day of class is sometimes known as "Syllabus Day." Your instructors will provide you a syllabus describing what the class is about, including when tests will be administered, grading and attendance policies, etc. The syllabus tends to be covered at the beginning​of class and you don't want to miss it. Add test and due dates to your calendar.
  
  
• Do not skip class. Not showing up to your first class may result in your getting dropped and your seat given to another student.
  
  
• Come prepared! Purchase your books and note books ahead of time; have notebook, pens, and pencils handy. If you use a laptop or tablet to take notes, will the screen size work with Zoom or other platforms, side-by-side?
  
  
• Introduce yourself to the instructor--even remotely or by email. Your instructor can be your best advocate for your success, but they need to get to know you. Become familiar with the instructor's office hours and meet them.
  
  
• Introduce yourself to other students and share your contact information in the event you later need notes for a class you missed. Solicit interest from other students in forming a small study group. Even in a remote environment, group meetings can still happen... safely.