Your Advisor

Every college student is assigned to a faculty advisor who will help you choose your courses, handle stress and connect you to your school’s resources. An advisor’s job is to help you make your college experience as rewarding as possible. But they can’t do it alone. You’ve got to work, too.

WHAT YOUR ADVISOR SHOULD DO FOR YOU
Advisors should be available for consultation. Most will post their schedules and meet with students during pre-arranged office hours. If your advisor doesn’t offer this information, be sure to ask.

Advisors should be familiar with—and respectful of—your educational needs and goals. Advisors must keep in mind that each student is different, and should tailor their advice for each individual. Your advisor should inform you of the specific course requirements you’ll need for your major or minor. Since you will check with an advisor before scheduling any classes, they must be up-to-date on academic requirements. They should tell you how those requirements apply to your degree path.

Your advisors can direct you to valuable campus services.
They should know about the school’s tutorial, career and counseling services. Advisors should be aware of career opportunities related to your interests and major. They also should consider your skills when discussing your career options. While it is important that advisors take active roles in your education, the effort is not theirs alone.

YOUR PART
Get to know your advisors.
For starters, make an appointment to introduce yourself. Tell your advisor exactly what you expect from your college experience. You want your advisor to know you and your needs. Remember that you’re not the advisor’s only responsibility. Most faculty advisors advise many students and teach classes, as well.

Respect your advisor’s time by calling ahead to make appointments. Meet with your advisor before registering for or changing a class. Ask questions about your advisor’s work and interests. Their knowledge about your field of study can help you learn more about your future career. As in all relationships, you must respect your advisor if you, in turn, want to be respected.

IS YOUR ADVISOR SLACKING?
Are your advisors never available for appointments? Are they not making an effort to understand your goals? Are they forcing you into classes and programs against your will?

If so, then consider requesting another advisor. An advisor should be someone you can depend on for accurate information and support. An advisor should not be someone you can never reach or who disregards your opinions and needs. If you feel that your advisors aren’t keeping their ends of the bargain, find someone who will make you a priority. A teacher with whom you feel comfortable is a good candidate for the job. When partnered with a competent advisor, the difficult road of college planning becomes a bit smoother.

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