January 2012

Welcome to MA094! I'm Professor Zimmermann, and I'm looking forward to being your math professor. I hope you had nice holidays and are looking forward to learning new math skills. I believe effort is the most important component of success. My most successful students consistently attend class, complete their homework, do practice problems prior to quizzes and tests, and ask lots of questions. It is important to get off to a good start and keep the momentum up throughout the semester. As with all of life, integrity is important and I expect it of all my students.

What should I do before class starts?

1. Browse my website. In particular, pay special attention to the Study Skills section.

2. If you are a returning student you WILL NOT have to pay again for the MyLabsPlus. If this is your first time you WILL need to pay for access to MyLabsPlus and directions for logging in can be found in the REQUIRED ORIENTATION VIDEO located at…
www.montgomerycollege.edu/algebra

3. Sign in to MylabsPlus as soon as possible. As soon as you sign in your name will appear in my grade book. Once I have you in my grade book I can place you in the appropriate spot that you are to begin in the course. I CANNOT DO THIS UNTIL YOU LOG IN THE FIRST TIME THIS SEMESTER! After you log in please email me so that I know you have done so. I will then dismiss the appropriate prerequisites for you and then email you and tell you to begin at the appropriate place.

4. ALWAYS CHECK YOUR SCHOOL EMAIL DAILY for announcements regarding this course.

As much as I think academics are important, I believe your experiences outside the classroom are equally important. There are many interesting students at Montgomery College from various backgrounds. Take time to get to know them and learn from each other. There are also many college-sponsored activities such as clubs, sports, lectures, programs, and movies. Take the initiative and try one or two. If you don’t see something you like, start something which is your passion. Academic help, counseling, internship and job placement services are also available. Again, you must take the initiative. I hope you enjoy your years at MC, explore, and do more than just check off your graduation requirements.

A little bit about me - I have a B.A. in Math and an M.S. in Computer Science. I've worked for IBM, been a stay-at-home mom, and been a substitute teacher for Montgomery County Public Schools. I work part-time at Montgomery College and I’m involved in a food club that supports local family farms and direct farm-to-consumer purchasing. I believe math can be fun and useful in everyday life. It is said that math teaches general thinking/problem-solving skills and “exercises” your brain.

If you ever have any questions, please e-mail me.

~Professor Zimmermann

sally.zimmerman@montgomerycollege.edu

http://www.montgomerycollege.edu/~szimmerman