In order to register for courses, you must first meet with your academic advisor. Each student is assigned a faculty or professional staff member as his or her academic advisor. These are the 5 steps (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) needed to complete the advising process:
Each semester a list is posted in the academic buildings that identifies an academic advisor for each matriculated and non-matriculated student. Non-matriculated students are students who have not yet declared a major. These lists will identify whether or not you are a matriculated or non-matriculated student.
Please note, if you are a non-matriculated student and want to change your status, you must contact the Records Office and complete the appropriate forms. If the reason you have not matriculated is that you are unsure of the program of study you wish to pursue, please schedule an appointment with a counselor in the Career Development and Counseling Center.
One week each semester is set aside as Advising Week. During that week, all faculty and staff advisors hold extended office hours to make themselves available to their advisees. Sign up sheets are posted at least one week prior to the designated advising week so that students may sign up for a specific time to meet with their advisor. During that meeting, your advisor should discuss with you a number of topics. These may include how the current semester is progressing, what your academic goals are at the college as well as transfer potential, how the college may assist you with your career aspirations, and what courses you may need and/or wish to take in the next semester.
To ensure that you receive the best possible advice, follow these guidelines:
- Print your transcript from myCommNet for your advising appointment.
- If you are unable to do this, obtain a copy from the Records Office, Founders Hall.
- If you are considering transferring to another university or college, bring in a copy of that institution's catalogue.
- Familiarize yourself with your own curriculum and the requirements for graduation for your course of study.
Prior to meeting with your academic advisor, review both the curriculum in which you are enrolled and the course offerings for that particular semester. Develop a list of courses in which you have an interest as well as a list of questions you may have for your advisor concerning degree requirements and/or the relevance of certain courses to meet your individual career /transfer goals.
The academic advising process should be a conversation. Ask questions to clarify information and take notes. Evaluate the information you receive and act accordingly. Remember, faculty and staff advisors are there to assist you in the decision making process; however, ultimately, you are responsible for your education. Quality academic advising allows you to accomplish your goals in a timely manner and allows you to be in control of your own educational endeavors. It is not only during the designated advising period that you may meet with your advisor to evaluate your progress as a student. By developing an on-going relationship with your academic advisor, you will gain insight into academic issues and career options as they relate to your academic program. Please see the semester schedule for registration procedures.
