Essentials of Effective Advising

Students who develop a good working relationship with their advisors are more likely to remain in their academic programs and graduate. Some key objectives of this relationship are to

• Promote student growth and development.
• Help students assess their interests and abilities.
• Examine students’ educational goals.
• Develop short-term and long-range plans to meet each student’s objectives.
• Clarify information on liberal education and major requirements.
• Clarify college policies and procedures.
• Discuss students’ educational and career options.
• Monitor students’ academic progress.
• Direct students to other resources when necessary.

This relationship is not a one-way process. Both students and advisors must assume equal responsibility in the advising process. The National Academic Advising Association (NACADA) lists six core values of academic advising; advisors are responsible

1. to the individuals they advise
2. for involving others, when appropriate, in the advising process
3. to their institutions
4. to higher education
5. to their educational community
6. for their professional practices and for themselves personally.

Faculty advisors are welcome to join NACADA and participate in the Faculty Advising Interest Commission. Ask the START Center or visit the NACADA Web site for more information.

Student Responsibilities

• Read their governing catalog carefully.
• Be familiar with degree programs and graduation requirements of the college.
• Understand college policies and procedures regarding academics and graduation.
• Seek out answers to questions from qualified advisors.
• Keep scheduled appointments.
• Carefully consider advisor recommendations.
• Accept ultimate responsibility for decisions.
• Make use of resources available on campus.

Advisor Responsibilities

• Be knowledgeable about college and departmental requirements, policies, and procedures.
• Maintain adequate office hours throughout the semester.
• Provide a respectful, supportive atmosphere.
• Keep accurate and confidential records.
• Ensure that students are provided fair and equitable access to services.
• Avoid any personal conflict of interest.
• Discourage students from circumventing college policies or regulations; and if confronted with situations in which students have violated policies, address the issues and refer students to the appropriate agency or office.
• Be familiar with university resources in order to make appropriate referrals.