How to Activate Your WordPress Theme

Overview

This lesson walks you through how to activate your WordPress theme for your PLEM Academy website. This is one of the first steps in setting up your personal site, which will be used as your portfolio, resume hub, and workspace.

Step 1: Log Into Your Website

1. Go to your website URL.
2. Add /login to the end of the URL.
3. Enter the username and temporary password from your email.
4. Click Remember Me and log in.

Step 2: Open the Dashboard

Once logged in, go to the top menu and click into your dashboard. This is where all of your website controls are located.

Step 3: Navigate to Themes

1. Go to Appearance.
2. Click on Themes.

You will see the default theme already installed.

Step 4: Download the PLEM Theme

Go to the PLEM Academy website under:

• Research Position
• Certificates Program
• WordPress Instructions

Inside the accordion, download the theme file provided.

Step 5: Upload the Theme

1. Click Add New Theme.
2. Click Upload Theme.
3. Select the downloaded .zip file.
4. Click Install.

The installation may take a few moments since it is a large package.

Step 6: Activate the Theme

1. After installation completes, click Activate.
2. Your website design will now update automatically.

Step 7: Remove Default Theme

You can delete the default theme by clicking Theme Details and selecting Delete.

Step 8: Enter Your Pro Key

1. Go to the theme settings.
2. Locate the Customizer Pro Key section.
3. Enter the access code from your email.
4. Click Activate and then Save.

Your Website Structure

Your website will typically be your name or a pen name. While anonymity is optional, it is recommended to use your real name so your site can function as a professional resume and portfolio for employers or graduate programs.

Peer Review System

Your site will include a section for peer review, where you can post your work and receive feedback from other students. This helps build communication skills and experience working with others—an essential part of being a scientist or engineer.

Key Insight

The goal of this system is not just to build a website, but to develop communication skills, collaboration, and a professional presence that can be used for internships, jobs, and long-term career growth.

Quick Recap

1. Log into your WordPress site.
2. Go to Appearance → Themes.
3. Download the PLEM theme.
4. Upload and install the theme.
5. Activate the theme.
6. Delete the default theme.
7. Enter your Pro Key and save.
8. Begin customizing your website.