Freshman Academic Advisors serve as the primary point of contact for first-year ‑year students' academic inquiries and concerns. Their role is holistic, encompassing academic planning and guidance, transition and adjustment support, holistic student development, monitoring and encouraging progress, and advocacy and student empowerment.
Academic Planning and Guidance
Freshman Academic Advisors assist students in understanding degree requirements, selecting appropriate first‑year courses, and developing both short‑ and long‑term academic plans based on their intended majors and career path. They help students navigate university systems, policies, and procedures, ensuring students are well informed and confident in their academic choices.
Transition and Adjustment Support
Recognizing that the first year of university can be challenging, advisors provide essential support to help students adjust to new expectations. They offer strategies for effective study habits, time management, and academic success, empowering students to build strong foundations for their university journey.
Holistic Student Development
Advisors offer a supportive and inclusive environment where students' academic or personal challenges can be discussed. When needed, they connect students with relevant campus resources, including tutoring services, counseling, accessibility services, and other support offices that contribute to student well‑being and development.
Monitoring and Encouraging Progress
Throughout the year, advisors monitor students' academic progress and proactively reach out to offer guidance when concerns arise. They help students set goals, develop improvement plans, and celebrate achievements along the way.
Advocacy and Student Empowerment
Advisors advocate for student needs within the institution and encourage students to take ownership of their academic paths. They foster independence, confidence, and informed decision‑making, ensuring students feel supported from their first day onward.
Freshman students are expected to:
- Meet with their academic advisors at least twice during the semester
- Be on time and prepared for academic advising sessions
- Keep their academic advisor informed of any changes that might impact or interfere with academic progress
- Be responsive to their advisors
- Register for classes during the scheduled time period
- Take personal responsibility for actions and decisions made