10 things you should about this course:

1. Majors Only Section: This section of ECON 2005 differs from other sections offered at Virginia Tech because it's been set aside only for incoming ECON majors. We'll cover all the same material as other sections, but we'll do so in a slightly different way given your interest in the subject. This special section also gives you the chance to meet and work with other students you'll see in later ECON courses at Tech. 
    

2. Dual Roles: You will receive A LOT of emails from me throughout the semester because I also serve as the Director of the Undergraduate Program. I will do my best to keep these roles separate when contacting you, but know that I'm here to help you succeed, regardless of whichever "hat" I'm wearing. Our department offers a lot of great opportunities to build a unique experience, and I hope you trust yourself to take advantage of those opportunities.
    

3. Class Preparation Expectations: The majors-only section has a heavier dose of active learning. We'll focus our class time together working on solving problems and participating in experiments. You will be asked to spend time outside of class each week preparing for class and summarizing the work you've done. Virginia Tech expects you to spend around 6 hours each week working on material related to our course in addition to the 3 hours we spend together each week. 
    

4. In-Person Format: Most of our classes are held in person only, without a virtual option. There may be days when we can't meet in person, in which case I'll provide asynchronous lessons for you to complete on your own time. All graded assignments are completed online, but a portion of your quiz scores is based on activities and discussions that only happen in class.
    

5. Attendance and Participation: Active participation is an important part of succeeding in this course. It also contributes to your final grade. We'll use the iClicker Cloud platform to help keep class interactive. Unlike some of your other courses, physical iClicker remotes will not work in our class. You'll need a laptop, phone, or tablet to participate in these interactive assignments. iClicker Cloud access is included with purchases of new physical remotes, if you have one from another course.
    

6. Weekly Assignments Matter As Much As Quizzes: Instead of relying on a few high-stakes exams, this course uses multiple weekly assignments to reinforce learning. It's important to stay ahead of due dates! The Canvas calendar doesn't always list everything, so consider keeping your own planner.
    

7. Connect Platform: Your textbook, homework, and quizzes will all be hosted on McGraw Hill's Connect platform. The lowest price is available directly through McGraw Hill's website. You will be able to register and pay for your Connect account once our Canvas course officially opens.
    

8. Save Money on Books & Course Materials: Course material (for this class and others) is usually cheaper online than at the campus bookstore. Before buying anything, check whether older editions work for your other courses too. Amazon offers a student version of Prime with 3-day shipping to your dorm, which is worth looking into.
    

9. Canvas is Your Central Hub: We use multiple online platforms, but Canvas is the central hub for course materials and announcements. I recommend setting up daily digest notifications and email forwarding if you don't check your VT email regularly. Always use your VT email when registering for class-related sites so your grades sync correctly. This applies to all your courses, not just mine.
    

10. No Late Work or Make-Ups for Technical Issues: Technical issues happen to everyone, and our course grading policy has built-in accommodations for occasional problems. Because of this, no late work or make-up assignments are given. If you run into technical issues, public computers are available on campus, or you can rent a laptop from the library.

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I’m passionate about economics and education, and I bring that energy to every class. I also write a weekly newsletter connecting economics to current events and pop culture. You are welcome (but not required) to follow my social media accounts for additional insights or discussions outside of class.

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I am really looking forward to the upcoming semester, and I hope you enjoy your next few months with me as your instructor!