Making the most of your advising appointment
To ensure you get the best support from your advisors, consider the following:
- Reach out to the right place – While advisors are happy to refer you if you’re unsure where to go, you’ll get answers faster if you contact the correct office directly. This webpage identifies the office to contact for various advising issues and services.
- Plan ahead – Avoid waiting until the last minute before important deadlines (e.g., course add/drop, graduation review period) when advising demand is high.
- Come prepared – Review your degree or program requirements and bring a list of questions.
- Take notes – Write down key advice and next steps during your appointment to ensure you follow through on recommendations.
- Be open and honest – Share any academic challenges or concerns so your advisor can provide relevant support and guidance.
- Understand the role of advisors – Your advisors are here to support you academically, but they are not licensed counselors and cannot provide professional mental health services. If you are struggling with personal or emotional challenges, they can help connect you to appropriate support services. In an emergency, consult this list of emergency support services.
- Use university resources – Many questions can be answered through university websites and the . Checking these in advance can make your advising session more productive.
- Follow up – If you need additional clarification or encounter new challenges, don’t hesitate to reach out again or explore other support services.
Advisors are here to support you, but taking an active role in your academic planning will help you make informed decisions and get the most out of your university experience.