We have all had terms where new class was given to us at the last minute, or there was a last minute schedule change. This last minute change can often put the teacher a bit off-kilter, especially toward the beginning of the term. I've had this happen before myself, and I've noticed that if I project a vibe of poor time management and poor preparedness, this rubs off on the students in a very bad way. One thing I make sure to do know with all of my classes, and make a very intentional projection of professionalism, good time management, positive attitude, and preparedness -- even if I'm having a rough day, didn't get enough sleep, or the class is at 8am. Things I make sure to do include: 1. Grading papers/projects on time. I make sure to get all grades finished within 1-2 days of when they were turned on. Not only does this give the students a grade reference quickly, but it also projects an attitude of "we get things done in this class" and promotes good time management. 2. Stand as often as possible during lecture -- a seated teacher can often project a tired teacher, and won't demand the students attention. 3. Give students independence on hands on projects -- I want the students to have just the right balance of pressure to complete an assignment on time, and enough help from me so they don't get lost. If I continually help a student on each step of an assignment, without pushing them to self-learn a bit, they will not learn to be professionally motivated to complete assignments on time, and may learn poor time management. 4. Overall, just project a vibe of professionalism and confidence, dress appropriately, speak confidently, be on time (be early), be overly prepared, and maintain a positive attitude. These traits will rub off on your students if you implement them every time you teach.