From previous experience, I have learned that giving students an opportunity to introduce themselves is great, but you have to limit it to academics or career goals only otherwise you can get some very personal info that should not be shared in this format, as well as some long winded diatribes.

It is important to engage students and not just expect them to be sponges passively absorbing material. Students must feel secure in knowing the course requirements, what's expected of them as learners and that they have support from their instructor and institution.