Raymond Walters College

Advising Mission Statement

The goal of academic advising at RWC is to help students increase their capacity to take charge of their educational careers. This will be accomplished through shared responsibility on the part of the student, advisor, and college. We will create an environment conducive to an exchange of information between advisor and student necessary to accomplish academic goals. More importantly we hope to foster a relationship that goes beyond mere course selection. Ideally, a mentoring relationship will develop and contribute to an increased understanding of the educational experience. The success of the advising relationship is dependent on a strong commitment by the student, advisor and college.

STUDENT responsibilities include:

To understand degree and program requirements
To prepare for advising meetings
To arrange quarterly advising appointments
To make independent decisions based upon best judgement and information and advice available
To seek out contacts and information related to planning an individual academic program
To be familiar with published University and College policies and procedures

ADVISOR responsibilities include:

To be knowledgeable of degree and program requirements
To provide accurate information and/or make appropriate referrals
To be available to the student during scheduled times
To assist the student in determining appropriate course load (e.g. - full-time, part-time, evening)
To monitor student progress and address student questions/concerns
To develop mentoring relationship with the student
To participate in opportunities provided by the College for professional development

COLLEGE responsibilities include:

To provide clear policies and procedures, and the resources to support the advising system
To assist advisors in developing effective skills
To conduct on-going assessment of the advising system
To conduct annual advisor evaluations
To provide appropriate recognition for the vital role advisors have for student academic success
To provide effective management of the advising system informed by the standards and core values of the advising profession
To provide students and advisors with knowledge about career opportunities in the discipline
To provide students and advisors with updated electronic information about degrees, programs, and courses

2/24/04