All Southwestern students are assigned an academic advisor in their first semester at Southwestern. Academic advisors help students to choose classes and to understand academic expectations and requirements. As students are preparing to meet with their advisors in advance of pre-registration on April 6, here is some frequently asked questions about advising.
1. What does an academic advisor do?
Academic advisors guide students in their course selections, keep students apprised of changes to the curriculum and of resources available on campus, and help students clarify their educational and personal goals. Advising at its best is much more than granting pre-registration approval.
2. What does my student's advisor expect of him/her?
Advisors expect students to exercise some agency in their own educational experiences; this includes planning schedules and alternate courses prior to the advising appointment, asking about career-related opportunities, discussing areas of academic struggle and listening to suggestions made by the advisor. Ultimately, students must commit to making the most of the opportunities offered here, and advisors can facilitate that process.
3. What does my student do to change his/her advisor?
SU has a no-questions-asked advisor change policy. Many students change advisors with a change in disciplinary focus, or upon declaring a major. Others change in search of a better personality match. Any reason is valid. There is a Change of Advisor form available at the Office of Academic Success or the Registrar's Office, both in the Cullen Building.
4. Can I talk to my student's advisor about his/her progress?
Yes and no. If your student agrees to conversations between you and the advisor in writing, then you may contact one another at will. Advisors must adhere to FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974) the same way faculty and administrators do. Thus, grade and performance-related information about your student's courses are protected unless your student releases that information in writing. Advisors are typically willing to meet parents and share your concerns.
5. Where do I get more information about advising?
You may ,
Director of Academic Success and Advising, at 512/ 863-1286. You may also download the Advising Handbook in Adobe Acrobat format. You will need the FREE Adobe Reader to view and print this document.
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