“On a day-to-day basis… It is hard to get yourself or the University sued if you act in good faith and with the students’ interests at heart. But it can happen.” (Buck et al., 2001).
Students and the University have a contractual relationship, in which advisors, as representatives of the University, can bind the University to certain actions based on our actions as advisors. This is known as the law of agency. (Habley, 1995; Robinson, 2004)
The following suggestions are designed to protect the university, the student and yourself, you may want to consider the following points:
1. In talking with students, make no claims based on uncertain knowledge. Avoid hearsay (Buck et al., 2001).
-
Conduct periodic and careful review of all printed materials to see if they coincide with advising practice. If there are discrepancies between policy and practice, take steps to initiate the alteration of materials OR alter your own practice.
-
Assist students in locating and understanding the "fine print."
-
If you are aware of upcoming changes in policies, procedures or programs, encourage students to plan ahead and stay informed. (Habley, 1995)
2. An advisor must be a custodian of the student’s good reputation (Buck et al., 2001).
- “Advisor Notes” should be entered using the Faculty/Advisor Resource Center when advising a student. Personal notes are not a part of the "official file" as defined by the Buckley Amendment. If you need to retain specific, more personal information about a student’s situation to give effective advice, these personal notes should be kept in a different location. (Habley, 1995)
3. Present students with all the options open to them, not just the ones you favor (Buck et al., 2001).
- Do not equivocate or apologize to students for policies with which you personally disagree. Your equivocation may be misinterpreted and could provide the source for future litigation. (Habley, 1995)
4. An advisor who misadvises a student has the moral obligation to make things right (Buck et al., 2001).
- Help students understand how to appeal policies and procedures when necessary.
- If you are uncertain of a policy, identify the person with the "final say" to give either you or the student an answer. (Habley, 1995)
5. Acknowledge one’s biases and respond to students as unique individuals and not as members of a group or category (Buck et al., 2001).
6. Advisors advise; students decide (Buck et al., 2001).
- Discuss advisor responsibilities and rights with all advisees. (Habley, 1995)