If you typically use most of each opening class session reviewing your course syllabus but seek a more engaging alternative, let me suggest focusing your first lesson on “making connections” rather than “giving directions.” The three “critical connections” I emphasize on opening day are (1) connecting students to instructor, (2) connecting instructor to content, and (3) connecting content to students. By focusing on these connections (and saving the syllabus for the second day of class), I aim to create a positive and productive working relationship with my students right from the start and, perhaps most important, to awaken in them early on the benefits of engaging with the subject matter.