After listening to participants in this STEM workshop and a Resilient Teaching workshop, many ways to establish a sense of belonging and encourage social interactions with peers in a classroom can work.
For example, I understand the importance of sending a welcome and thank you message a week before the semester starts. The welcome message can emphasize that everyone has a unique contribution to make in the classroom with backgrounds, interests, and work experiences which can all play a role in the richness and the diverse perspectives they can offer during the semester. I would then thank them for enrolling in the course and conclude by saying, looking forward to seeing them and receiving any messages if there are any questions.

Students will be encouraged to share their interests and passions from the start to the end of the semester. I would suggest students form semester friend(s) so that they can share notes and support each other in the class. It is also essential to communicate with students via email and post announcements on BB and CUNYfirst to show them that you want them to know the importance of their participation in adding to the classroom experience. It is vital to give feedback promptly, but I would also encourage students to ask their peers to offer commentary. Finally, remind everyone of the resources provided by the greater college community, such as the Learning Resource Center, The Math Labs, The Counseling Center, etc. All these resources assist and support their well-being, belonging and enhancing social skills.