Essentials of Effective Advising
It has been shown that students who develop a good relationship with their advisors
are more likely to persist and graduate. An advisor helps to promote student growth
and development, and assists students in assessing their interests and abilities,
examining their educational goals, and developing short-term and long-range plans to
meet their objectives. Advisors provide information on general education and major
requirements, clarify policies and procedures, discuss educational and career options,
monitor academic progress, and direct students to other resources when necessary.
Both students and advisors must assume equal responsibility in the advising process.
Students have the responsibility to
- read the catalog carefully;
- be familiar with degree programs and requirements at the university;
- seek out answers to their questions;
- develop self-awareness;
- keep scheduled appointments;
- follow through on advisor recommendations;
- accept ultimate responsibility for their decisions; and
- make use of all resources on campus.
Advisor responsibilities
include:
- being knowledgeable about university and departmental requirements, policies and
procedures;
- maintaining adequate office hours throughout the semester;
- providing a respectful, supportive atmosphere;
- keeping accurate records;
- ensuring that students are provided access to services on a fair and equitable
basis;
- avoiding any personal conflict of interest as well as the appearance of a
conflict;
- refusing to participate in any form of sexual harassment;
- discouraging students from circumventing institutional policies or regulations;
and when confronted with situations in which students have violated policies,
addressing the issues and referring students to the appropriated agency;
- recognizing the limitations of their positions and being familiar with
university resources in order to make appropriate referrals; and
- maintaining confidentiality according to established standards.
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