After successfully applying and enrolling, many students often face a common challenge: how to perform better in class. Typically, during the first session, professors will ask students to introduce themselves.
As the saying goes, "The first impression is your last impression," highlighting the importance of making a strong initial impact. So, how can you leave a good first impression during your self-introduction?
Don't view introducing yourself as a mere task. Instead, approach it with a genuine desire to make friends, allowing your classmates and professor to get to know your personality and experiences.
If you treat it as an obligation, you will likely feel nervous and underperform.
Distinguish the Type of Class
If it is an orientation for international students or something similar, there may not be many formal self-introductions. However, there will be plenty of ice-breaking activities, such as brainstorming sessions or social games where participants ask each other questions. The flow of these activities is somewhat similar to the TOEFL speaking section. For instance, someone might ask, "What aspects of the US differ from what you previously imagined?" or "How does the US differ from your home country?" Your goal is to think carefully, provide clear points, and organize your thoughts logically. This may draw attention to you, potentially leading to an opportunity for a self-introduction. You don't need to say too much; simply state who you are, where you come from, and what you are studying. You can conclude with:
This is my first time studying in America. Everything feels fresh here. Life is going to be more challenging, but luckily, people are nice and friendly, so I think things will be fun and interesting. I hope I can make friends with all of you... Finally, say, "Thank you, you guys are gracious."
Sometimes, shyness causes us to hold back, making us appear overly reserved in such situations. In fact, the US is a place where you should showcase your personality and charm. If you present your viewpoints logically and persuasively, speaking clearly and confidently (even if just for a couple of sentences), your classmates and professor will sense your confidence. That constitutes a successful self-introduction. Oh, and remember to keep smiling.
Secondly, if it is your first day attending a regular class, professors usually go around the room for introductions in order. If you are not the first to speak, you will likely hear many of your classmates giving similar introductions, such as, "My name is..., my English name is..., I am a first-year master's student..." When it is your turn, you can follow a similar structure but personalize it slightly:
My name is... You can call me... if you'd like (mention your English name, nickname, etc.). If this is your first time taking this course, you can say, "This will be my first time learning about... I know it is going to be challenging, so please be ready if I bother you, Professor __ (insert professor's name), because I will likely have many questions." Finally, say, "Thank you."
If you are already familiar with the course material, you might say:
I have some background in..., so if any of you have questions, feel free to share them with me... Americans are generally very helpful. If you feel that offering help might be burdensome, you can instead say, "I have some background in..., and I believe that this class will help me strengthen my knowledge and sharpen my mind. Thank you."
The most important thing in American classrooms is to avoid being overly restrained. Introduce yourself boldly and confidently. It doesn't matter if you make mistakes. Be brave in showing your outgoing side in class, which will also help you make friends later on.
