Ready, Set, Teach: Preparing for a Successful First Class
CATE TA Workshops
August 25, 2026
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Location
Virtual
Calendar
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Overview
The first day of class has a lasting impact on student perceptions and performance throughout the semester. In this workshop, we will explore how first-day strategies help to establish community, shape class culture, and set mutual semester expectations. Together, we’ll discuss and practice student-centered strategies to engage and excite students. You will leave the workshop with a draft of a welcome email to send to your students and a plan to welcome your students to the course and prepare them for the semester ahead.
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Reflect on the importance of the first day and the opportunity it represents.
- Learn strategies for setting clear expectations that emphasize growth.
- Develop their own plan for welcoming students to the course and to each other.
WORKSHOP FORMAT: This workshop will be held on Zoom
WORKSHOP FACILITATOR: Jenny Torres, jtorr74@uic.edu
WORKSHOP CONTACT: teaching@uic.edu
Inclusivity & Accessibility Information: CATE is committed to making events as accessible as possible. CATE’s online events are delivered through Zoom, will use Zoom auto-captions, and may include breakout rooms and group discussion. If you have any accessibility questions, requests, or to coordinate accommodations, please contact the CATE team at teaching@uic.edu.
Date posted
Aug 3, 2026
Date updated
Aug 3, 2026