So, we have started doing a WELCOME letter for each term and incorporated a short bio for each instructor to give the students an opportunity to learn about our credentials, achievements (and some failures that we overcame) and our expectations as the instructor to each students. On day one, we do a verbal intro by each students so I know more about them and each student learns a bit about their peers, but, I like the idea of having them write/type it out because it might prompt them to dig a little deeper. We used this format years ago at a different school, but, this prompted me to pull that back and I really like this idea. Another suggestion would be to add a "Dear FUTURE ME" letter that the students writes to them selves either day one of the entire program or revises at each term/semester with updates on their goals, expectations, accomplishments, and maybe career path changes. Then at graduation or course completion, have them read it so they can fully grasp and appreciate their academic and personal growth.
