University College has one of the most unique academic advising systems in the country. UC uses a Master Academic Plan (MAP) approach, led by experienced advisors who are also certified life coaches. When students encounter roadblocks to their success, a personalized “game plan” is implemented to address the issues that are slowing down the student’s progress.
Role of Your Advisor
University College academic advisors are committed to each and every student, whether you’re pursuing a degree program or enrolling in a single class. They work with you every step of the way, from registration to graduation, helping you navigate procedures and processes that might be unfamiliar to you after a long hiatus from school.
UC advisors are skilled at helping you overcome roadblocks to your success with advice and assistance that can help keep you on track for your educational goals. Your advisor will help in areas such as:
- Identifying your degree requirements and options
- Admissions requirements
- Evaluating your transcripts
- Identifying educational and financial services
- Monitoring your progress
- Assisting in considering career options
- Making appropriate referrals to other campus offices.
As a part-time University College student, we encourage you to ask questions, gather information, and explore options so that you and your advisor can develop a meaningful academic plan.
University College advisors work in partnership with the schools and colleges to assist our part-time students with the following:
- General advising on returning to school, selecting courses, and educational options;
- Undergraduate part-time transcript evaluation, academic advising, and review of degree options;
- Career exploration/overview of appropriate programs of study;
- Admission details for specific undergraduate degree programs and other part-time admissions study options, including a graduate program overview;
- Accommodation for students with disabilities to fully participate in their courses;
- Services for students from educationally and financially disadvantaged backgrounds (Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program).
Informal advising occurs daily via phone calls or e-mail.
Advisors may:
- Act as an Advocate for students and as a liaison to SU departments; engage in a petition process with students; write letters of recommendation for jobs, internships, graduate and professional schools.
- Solicit Feedback by referring a student to a person or office when student’s needs extend beyond the reach of his or her professional expertise. This may include adjustment problems, assessing learning disabilities, personal crises, grievances, or career placement.
- Deliberate with students about which courses to take, career goals, progress toward successful completion of degree, course schedules and study habits.
- Inform students of degree requirements, resources for study, and additional campus resources (SSUI, Learning Center, DIPA, Career Services).
- Keep Records such as advising transcripts, logs, notes, or degree progress checklists.
- Refer Give students a mechanism for offering feedback about students’ perceptions of the advising process.