Student Advising Information
In programs where the number of student majors is large, most of one’s advisees are concentrating in the field. In programs where student majors are few, most advisees are likely to be freshmen and sophomores undecided about a major. In both instances the obligation of the advisor is the same—to provide each student the guidance necessary to plan a suitable course of study and to facilitate personal growth. To be effective, such advice must be conscientious, timely, and accurate. Thus, all advisors are expected to be well-informed about College-wide requirements and course sequences, as well as the offerings in one’s own program, and to be regularly available for consultation with students. More than one contact per term with one’s advisees is desirable, so that the advisor may keep informed of each student’s progress and the student may have a ready source of help if needed. If the student is on academic probation, the advisor is informed by the Director of Academic Services of the conditions to be met. The Dean of Curriculum and Student Learning provides resources to promote effective advising.
As highlighted in the Institutional Statement on Academic Advising, the relationship with the advisor may become one of the most valuable connections the student makes on the campus. In many cases the relationship may extend beyond academic matters to include discussion of career options, exploration of ethical issues, or counsel on personal problems. The advisor should use his or her own good judgment in such matters, and provide assistance and support to the extent that is comfortable for both parties. When circumstances warrant, the advisor should consult with, or refer the student to, other appropriate persons on campus, such as the professional staff in the offices of Student Life, Counseling Services, and the Campus Christian Center.