WHAT TO EXPECT
Advising: Students, Parents and Advisors Working Together
It's helpful to understand that students, parents and advisors each play a unique and vital role in student success. Because FERPA guidelines limit what advisors can reveal about their advisee, it is best for the student to have open communication with both their parents and the advisor.
College students begin to develop their independence and chart their life direction as they transition from high school to college. It is an exciting time filled with change and opportunity. Good communication between students and parents provides an opportunity for parents to become allies with advisors to strengthen the college experience for the student. Each party relies on each other to uphold their special role.
STUDENT ROLES
Primary responsibility for learning and academic success.
Monitor your own academic progress.
Understand the degree requirements and University policies.
Attend all classes.
Manage and balance study, work and social time.
Use University resources that will help you succeed.
Practice good communication with parents.
Work with your advisor to explore educational options or address concerns.
PARENT ROLES
Be available to support and encourage your student.
Offer advice when appropriate.
Encourage independence in a safe environment.
Allow students to make their own decisions using information presented to them.
Talk about expectations for successfully blending family values and experiences with transition to college life and autonomy.
Encourage your student to ask for help if needed, but let them do it for themselves and in their own way.
Understand that the transition to college is a challenge for you and your student: parts of it will be easy, other parts more difficult. Do it together and trust each other.
ADVISOR ROLES
Monitor student progress and guide toward academic success.
Help student understand their responsibilities and support them.
Provide assistance and refer to campus resources as needed.
Advocate for the student.
Help clarify and develop an educational plan to meet personal and career goals.
