What is Academic Advising?

What is academic advising?

"Academic advising is a developmental process which assists students in the clarification of their life/ career goals and in the development of educational plans for the realization of these goals. It is a decision-making process by which students realize their maximum educational potential through communication and information exchanges with an advisor; it is ongoing, multifaceted, and the responsibility of both student and advisor. The advisor serves as a facilitator of communication, a coordinator of learning experiences through course and career planning and academic progress review, and an agent of referral to other campus agencies as necessary." (ACT, American College Testing)

The Goals of Academic Advising in TJ's are:

To help students clarify individual values, interests, academic and life goals;
To help students craft an educational experience and program of study that meets their needs.
To provide accurate information and interpretation of College requirements;
To help students review and evaluate progress toward established educational goals
and completion of requirements within individual plans of study;
To develop student awareness about educational resources available to enhance their Education;
To encourage students to become independent learners through development of decision-making skills;
To assist students in the selection of appropriate courses and other educational experiences.

Academic Advising in TJ's IS:

Supplemental to faculty advising
An opportunity to explore majors and minors
An opportunity to build 4 year plans
A way to determine if you meet graduation and other requirements

Academic Advising in TJ's IS NOT:

Synonymous with faculty advising
Just obtaining a signature to register
Focused exclusively on a student's academic experiences
Telling students what to do
A judgmental process
Personal counseling