College of Science Academic Advising Policy Guide

What to expect from your advisor & what your advisor expects from you.

Students can expect their Advisor to:

■ Establish a good working relationship to help students feel welcome at the University.
■ Talk with students about their strengths, interests, and abilities.
■ Assist students with exploring areas of study and interpreting degree requirements.
■ Help students learn policies and procedures necessary to navigate the University.
■ Teach students how to gather information and make academically sound decisions.
■ Explain curriculum requirements.
■ Provide a safe environment in which to share questions, aspirations, concerns, and interests.
■ Assist with goal setting, long and short term.
■ Assist with academic issues and personal concerns.
■ Inform students of responsibilities in the advising process.
■ Be knowledgeable about the program and standards for which he/she advises.
■ Discuss student’s academic performance and implications.
■ Empower students to advocate for themselves.
■ Help students plan a course of study and give advice about courses.
■ Inform students of the prerequisites for subsequent courses in their program.
■ Establish, post, and maintain adequate office hours throughout the semester.
■ Participate in advisor training sessions to keep informed and current.
■ Provide resources for career exploration.

Expectations of Students

Advisors expect students to:

■ Be open to exploring opportunities that will help clarify interests, strengths, and abilities.
■ Schedule appointments to meet with your advisor at least once a semester, and come prepared with questions.
■ Prepare for advising appointments by reviewing course offerings and requirements.
■ Review degree requirements and monitor your academic progress.
■ Check your Purdue e-mail account regularly and respond when necessary.
■ Be knowledgeable of Purdue policies and procedures.
■ Discuss academic options such as summer courses, study abroad, honors, and internships.
■ Develop short and long term educational and career goals.
■ Familiarize yourself with campus resources and services.
■ Inform your advisor of any academic difficulties, program or career changes.
■ Seek help before a situation becomes a crisis.
■ Know your advisor’s office hours.
■ Research internships, study abroad, and experiential opportunities in a timely fashion.
■ The college experience is much different than you've had in high school. Accept the fact that you may struggle in some classes; this is to be expected. Take advantage of office hours and extra help sessions. Get a tutor - that's what they are there for. Take advantage of these extra opportunities before a situation becomes a crisis.