What is academic advising?
Academic advising supports your learning and development by providing you with academic advice, help in exploring your options, a place to share your questions and concerns, and the opportunity to receive referrals that fit with your individual needs. Academic advisors are required to support not just the student in front of them, but all students by upholding the policies and processes of the department, faculty and University.
While academic advisors are a great place to start, we are often not a one-stop shop. We work as part of a team to support your needs. Sometimes you will be required to meet with various advisors or consultants across campus to get the best support.
Who are academic advisors?
We are staff and faculty members who are here for you for academic support. We are knowledgeable, approachable, and available. We will motivate, encourage, develop and support you by empowering you to take responsibility for your academic journey. We have experience working with diverse student populations and we can provide a safe and welcoming environment where you and any of your fellow students can feel comfortable sharing your concerns and difficulties.
Why interact with an academic advisor?
We are a great resource if you:
- Have questions about which courses to take or what is required for your degree.
- Want to discuss your options and understand what choices are available for your academic decisions.
- Are struggling academically.
- Need information about available campus resources.
- Have questions about University policies, procedures, and possible exceptions.
- Need an ally who will understand your case, while balancing this with the policies of the University.
- Don’t know who to reach out to for support.
It is important to note that we:
- Each focus on specific majors, minors, and certificates in the Faculty, so we cannot provide advice about other majors, minors, and certificates outside of our scope.
- Respect your privacy. Unless you give your permission, we don’t share your information with other students or parents. However, at times, for academic support and mental health reasons, we will consult with other advising members or University supports for assistance.
- Are not immigration experts, so we cannot provide advice on immigration issues.
- Are not counsellors, though we will help you find counselling support.