Advising Information

Advising is for more than just getting your registration card signed . . . and you have lots of possible advisors as well: your assigned academic advisor; your professors from current/past classes; Denison staff like the folks in Academic Support; your peers; your parents; and more. Advice, in all its forms, can help you:

  • develop your intellectual interests and competence

  • design a schedule of courses that advances your educational goals, helps you to find out what interests you, and allows you to pursue other interests as well

  • take advantage of off campus academic experiences

  • take advantage of on campus programs such as independent study and undergraduate research, and honors programs

  • explore career and further educational interests

Faculty advising is a two way street (the following is adapted from the Cornell University Faculty Advising Handbook

Advisor Responsibilities

  • Get to know your advisees as individuals

  • Be available for your students within reason.

  • Help students clarify their educational and career goals.

  • Assist students in preparing an appropriate plan of studies and course schedules.

  • Monitor student decisions: inform students of relevant alternatives, limitations, and potential consequences of academic decisions, but allow students to make their own choices.

  • Encourage timely progress toward a degree.

  • Advocate ethical and professional conduct in all academic endeavors.

  • Provide relevant information on postgraduate opportunities, including careers, and graduate and professional schools, or refer them to the appropriate campus office where they can get this information (Career Services).

  • Refer students in serious academic or emotional difficulty to the Academic Support or University Health Services.

Student Responsibilities

  • Make an effort to become acquainted with your advisor.

  • Know the degree requirements and other relevant academic policies and procedures.

  • Complete academic requirements in a timely manner.

  • Initiate timely academic and career discussions with your advisor.

  • Be considerate of your advisor, schedule appointments and arrive promptly.

  • Take responsibility for your own decisions.

  • Make regular appointments with your advisor to discuss your progress; contact your advisor when questions or problems arise.

  • Prepare a list of questions or concerns before meeting with your advisor.

  • Prepare a list of desired and alternative courses before meeting with your advisor to discuss your course schedule.