The end of the semester is approaching, which means it’s almost time to meet with your academic advisor to discuss your class schedule. Make the most of this valuable conversation by using the suggestions below.
Understand their role.
It isn’t just about figuring out which courses to take. Advisors serve as an ongoing resource to help you discover and achieve your goals. As you track your progress toward graduation, your advisor will help you apply your skills outside the classroom through service projects, internships, study abroad or research opportunities.
Advisors will expect you to initiate contact, and it is best to do so early.
Scheduling an appointment may permit more time for a conversation than if you simply drop by during their office hours.
Take responsibility for your course schedule.
Most colleges permit you to be the architect of your degree. Yes, you must satisfy the core requirements of your major. But beyond this, you have some remaining elective credits that you get to structure on your own. Consider a double major or minor. Browse the course offerings to identify other areas of interests and diversify your expertise. Solicit your advisor’s input regarding other needed competencies or skills in your chosen profession.
Do your research and be prepared.
You are solely responsible for tracking your satisfaction of degree requirements and are expected to be aware of university policies, requirements and procedures.
Acquaint yourself with your college’s catalog and important dates for the current semester, such as the last day to request pass/no credit or the last day to withdraw from a course.
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View the course schedule. Prior to your appointment, identify a few classes and sections that interest you.
If you are interested in internships, browse through the listing that is published by your campus career center. Come ready to discuss a few of these opportunities.
Be honest.
Some students experience academic difficulty and do not know where to go for assistance. Advisers can refer you to tutoring services, as well as support services on campus. If you anticipate that a particular subject will be challenging during the next term, share this so your advisor can help you select other courses that compliment your strengths and bring balance to your class load.
Explore your career options.
Most majors qualify you for multiple careers. Ask your advisor to identify popular professions for your field of study. If you are not entirely sure of your major, share any concerns that you have.
Become familiar with your degree audit report.
Many colleges permit you to track your degree status and the requirements you have satisfied. Ask your advisor how to access and understand this report.
Create a plan of study with your advisor.
Some courses are offered in alternative years; some programs have specific application deadlines. Other activities, such as studying abroad or pursuing an internship, require careful planning. Having a roadmap will minimize unforeseen problems and help you identify the number of elective credits for your major.
Follow through.
Your academic adviser is invested in your success and persistence in school. Advisors have good reasons for referring students to a specific campus office or expressing concerns about their enrollment in a particular course. Be open to their suggestions and take action.
Stay in touch.
Contact your advisor if you have more questions or are unable to enroll in the courses you identified together. An ongoing relationship can blossom if you cultivate it – and you will be glad you did, especially as graduation approaches and you need strong references to launch your career.
Billie Streufert serves at Augustana College, S.D., as the director of the Student Success Center. With more than 10 years of experience in career and academic advising, she is eager to help students discover and achieve their goals. Connect with her via Twitter or LinkedIn.
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