Welcome to syllabus week; the first week of classes in which every professor will be passing out the key to your success in the class. In high school this would have been a useless item that you probably had to take home to get signed and then misplaced it in the bottom of your locker. This isn't high school though, you won't be babied and told when a paper is due or when you have quizzes. However, many professors will go over their syllabus in class one time to make sure everyone is on the same page. This obviously means very little instruction goes on during the first few class times. Syllabus week is also synonymous with the infamous welcome week. Students moving back to campus + very little class instruction = parties. All the time. So, in order to help you survive syllabus week, here are a few tips:
1. Seriously, do not ask questions that are answered on the syllabus.
It never fails. A kid not really paying attention to what the professor is saying will ask something like, "how many points are our exams worth?" This pisses them off, like really. Make sure to ACTUALLY READ the information given to you so you don't make the professor feel like you are wasting their time. If you still have questions ask around and use the professor as the last resort.
2. Even after syllabus week, pay attention to assignments and important dates coming up.
You don't want to become familiar with the feeling of walking into class not knowing that you have an exam today or had a paper due at midnight. More than likely, the professor will not feel sorry for you at all.
3. Be SMART!!
If you choose to go out during syllabus/welcome week be smart about it! Go with a group of people you met in class or from your building. Be conscious of all those things your parents have told you over the years. Don't push your limits, don't take things from people you don't know. You know the drill.
The first week of classes is a great time to meet a ton of people that you may be friends with for life. Get out of your dorm and explore the campus, or go see what the night life is all about. Stay focused on the education aspect as that is what keeps you at such a great school, but don't forget to enjoy your youth and meet some new friends! You're only there for four years, so make sure you maximize all the things there are to do. Syllabus week is typically one of the lightest work load weeks you will have at school, make sure to take advantage!
