Advising Tips

The advising process is a team effort between you and your adviser. You are encouraged to get to know the advising resources available to you. A faculty adviser is assigned to new, matriculated students. This adviser works with you on planning a program of study and answers questions on careers and graduate school. A key factor in your success can be the development of an effective partnership with your faculty adviser.

The Adviser's Role

• Provide current and accurate information about the University's and the School's academic and personal requirements
• Assist you in developing your course of study, including the selection of major and elective requirements
• Provide you with information on campus resources and offer referrals
• Be available either in person or by phone or e-mail to allow convenient access to advisement
• Provide information on opportunities that help enhance your academic program.

The Student's Role

• Be familiar with the University's academic information, as explained in the Bulletin, Schedule of Classes and Student Handbook
• Maintain a file and keep all copies of official correspondence from the University and School, grade reports, copies of petitions, academic review letters, etc. You should keep the Bulletin from your initial semester of enrollment.
• Utilize the resources provided by the Career Development Center, including the credential file service, career counseling, CDC workshops, and Teacher Recruitment Days (hosted at SUNY Cortland).
• Develop academic and career goals
• Stay current on all policies and regulations at the University, including prerequisite and core requirements information.
• Learn the degree requirements for your major.
• Take responsibility for your decisions, your progress and your success.
• Stay in contact with your adviser. Meet regularly with your adviser to discuss any questions about or changes to your program.
• Read and respond to to all correspondence sent to you by the University or the School.

Five Tips for Meeting with an Adviser

• Write down your questions.
• If you are meeting to discuss registration, prepare in advance a list of class choices, including alternate choices.
• Make an appointment to see your academic adviser well in advance. If a deadline is approaching, do not wait until the last minute. Plan in advance!
• Take information, documentation and an outline of your plans to your appointment.
• Know the academic calendar. It includes information on registration, add and drop deadlines, vacations, breaks and exam schedules. You are responsible for keeping these deadlines.