In the College of Fine and Applied Arts, academic advising involves more than just discussing courses. The advisor / student relationship is an essential component of the academic experience and is considered a shared responsibility.
Understanding your responsibilities will allow you to create more rewarding and effective advising experiences.
Student
Schedule an appointment in advance and show up on time to meet with your faculty advisor at least once a semester.
Thoroughly review and understand your program of study, Four-Year Guide and DegreeWorks to ensure timely graduation.
Learn how to utilize university and college websites to search for policies and procedures, program requirements and the academic calendar. Learn how to self-register for classes, view your academic status and track your progress towards graduation.
Prepare for your advising appointment by reviewing courses offered next semester and creating a mock schedule. Be ready to take notes and discuss how your chosen courses relate to your academic and professional goals.
Ask questions if you are unsure how courses impact your future, if you are unclear about academic policies or have concerns.
Utilize campus resources to cultivate skills, build networks, overcome challenges and implement strategies to reach your academic, personal and professional goals.
Notify your professor and advisor immediately if you are experiencing academic or personal difficulties that are impacting your coursework.
Take ownership and be held accountable for your academic actions or inactions.
Check your Appalachian email address daily and communicate with your advisor as needed.
Advisor
Be available during regular office hours and scheduled appointment times.
Support student in strategizing future personal / professional goals and formulating an academic plan.
Remain updated and educate student regarding institutional policies and procedures, important academic dates and major / minor requirements. Share resources on how to use student systems. Seek assistance and ask questions if unsure.
Holistically review student course recommendations, explain progress to graduation, recommend key strategies for program success, provide honest feedback and document notes of advising session in DegreeWorks to be reviewed by the student.
Instill in student the ability to develop critical and rational thinking skills to effectively solve problems and provide viable solutions.
Assist student in understanding the purpose and goals of higher education and aid in exploring interests and abilities related to the student's chosen academic program.
Actively listen to student concerns, respect individual values and choices, empower students to make informed decisions and refer to campus services and organizations if necessary.
Provide accurate and relevant information regarding curriculum, program requirements and co-curricular opportunities to engage learning outside of the classroom.
Maintain confidentiality of student records according to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).