Academic Advising Handbook: Advisor Checklist
Use this list as a way to think about your responsibilities as an advisor:
My availability is posted and flexible to accommodate student needs.
I spend sufficient time with my advisees to address their questions and concerns.
I can demonstrate the use of the online course catalog, schedule and calendar.
I encourage students to think beyond current semester planning to accommodate course sequencing, graduation expectations and relevant work experience.
I am ready to share information regarding career opportunities and alumni experiences relevant to my academic field.
I try to help my advisees feel comfortable - call them by name, refer to notes from previous meetings, inquire about life beyond the classroom.
I am knowledgeable about resources and services on campus and can demonstrate how to find information for my students.
I explain to my advisees ways I can assist them as an advisor and provide referrals when appropriate.
When I find new information which might be helpful to a student, I take the initiative to pass it along.
I try to help my advisees understand and work within University policies.
I help my advisees with problems involving study skills or low academic performance, challenging students to higher academic standards
I do not make decisions for my advisees, but help them make decisions for themselves.I can work effectively with students whose value systems differ from mine.
I am patient and encouraging with my students.
I am interested in my advisees' life goals as well as college goals.
I am able to be honest in communicating my opinions to my advisees, even if that opinion differs from the students.
When an advisee disagrees with something I say, I try not to become defensive.
With respect to abilities, I focus on my advisees' potential rather than their limitations.
I respect my students' feelings and opinions.
Regardless of my personal opinion or feeling about a student, I strive to give all students accurate information and sound advice.
I believe my advising is effective.
Adapted from: Crockett, 1995, pp. 161-63, Kerr, 1996, p. 165