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The academic college adviser can be a great asset for college students. Not only is your adviser most likely a seasoned member of the faculty and familiar with your program, but they are also familiar with other staff members in the department and may be able to help you when you cannot help yourself.

It is important to remember that your academic adviser may advise a large number of students and it is possible that they may not be familiar with your specific program. It is your responsibility to stay on top of your program and college courses. Make sure you have a copy of your checklist and full course requirements sheet. Before meeting with your adviser to schedule, you should already know what courses you want to take the following semester. Their responsibility is more to approve that than to determine what courses you should take. They may be able to offer some guidance and will make sure that you are taking care of requirements. They are not there to motivate you and if you wait for them to tell you what you should be doing, you will quickly fall behind.

But, the part where advisers can be particularly helpful is when you run into a problem. They have connections and depending on their rank in the department may also have some influence. In my particular case, my academic adviser not only moved a class for myself and a few classmates, but also contacted a retired professor to inquire about a grade I received and helped me get the grade changed. Do not be afraid to schedule to see your adviser if you have an academic problem. They are willing to help and will do what they can to help you, so long as you have a good adviser.

Do not expect your adviser to tell you what to do. You are responsible for your own academic successes and failures and staying on top of the requirements for your programs, degrees, and certifications. But do expect your adviser to help you or offer advice on new situations or tough spots. By developing a relationship with your adviser, they are a definite asset to your college career.

Learn more about this author, CJ R.
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