Prepare for Your Advising Session
Make the most out of your meeting
Your academic advisor is here to help you explore and design your path toward success in college and beyond.
Be ready to meet with your advisor, so that they can help you reach your goals.
Get ready: What to do before your advising session
- Prepare any documents or ideas you need to discuss with your advisor. Consider bringing:
- A list of questions you might have.
- A current degree audit.
- Ideas about class choices.
- Explore your major(s). Have a good understanding about what your program entails.
- Look over your program requirements and class prerequisites.
- If you are undeclared, take a look at the undergraduate catalog to see if there's anything you might be interested in.
- Contact your advisor in advance if you have any schedule changes that will conflict with your meeting time. Your advisor may have multiple duties (e.g., teaching, research, etc.), so please be respectful of his or her time.
Discussion ideas for your advising session
Ask questions and provide information that may be helpful for your advisor to know.
You might want to discuss:
- How to declare or change your major.
- Program/major/general education requirements.
- Class registration, schedule and workload.
- Social opportunities.
- Concerns about grades, classwork, requirements, etc.
- Study tips and resources.
- Options for internships, research, careers and other academic opportunities.
- Significant changes that can affect your academic progress and goals (e.g., job change, changing your major, etc.).
- How to find information or assistance for something specific (e.g. financial aid, tutoring, counseling, etc.).
Also, let your advisor know about any concerns you have.
Remember: Check in with your advisor
- Schedule a meeting with your advisor at least once a semester.
- Seek help from your advisor when you need it, so any problems you face don't become overwhelming.
Please remember that, while your advisors are here to guide your educational progress, you are responsible for your academic decisions.