A "good" advisor
can be one of the most important relationships you have at college. A knowledgeable
and concerned advisor is prepared to respond to certain college realities
delineated by W. Habley (as cited in Upcraft & Kramer, 1995):
only 12% of beginning
students expect to change majors-65-85% do;
only 2% of beginning
students expect to fail a course-16% do;
only 8% of students expect
to take extra time to finish their degree-60% do;
only 1% of beginning
students expect to drop out-40% do.
What qualities should I
look for in an advisor?
Former and present students
have outlined certain characteristics they believe "good"
advisors must possess. According to these students, an advisor
can/may/should/must:
make students aware of
specific academic requirements;
assist in the establishment
of and implementation of academic goals;
be knowledgeable of
available resources, programs, facilities, and support services;
know the advisee's name and
establish a friendly and caring, but professional, relationship with
the student;
be accessible for advising
throughout the semester;
provide guidance while
stressing student responsibility;
be honest, sincere,
pleasant, and a good listener;
be able to talk with the
student about "life" in general.
What can you do to
maximize your relationship with your adviser?
Be active in the advising
process-make an effort to get to know your advisor.
Seek a "good
match." In other words, select an advisor with whom you are
"comfortable" and share common academic interests.
Make a list of your
questions and/or concerns before meeting with your advisor.
When you can, ask
open-ended questions rather than those that can be answered with a
"yes" or "no."
Most importantly, assume
personal responsibility for your academic career. Your advisor is just
that-an advisor. Your progress is ultimately your responsibility.
How do I get an advisor
in psychology?
Identify the faculty member
who you would like to be your advisor.
Get a "change of
advisor" form from the Registrar's Office or from the
departmental office (Colden Hall Room 2440).
Visit with the faculty member
during his/her office hours. If he/she agrees to be your advisor, get
the necessary signature on the "change of advisor" form and
take the form to the Registrar's Office.
Follow this same procedure
if you would like to change advisors within the department. Your
current advisor will not be offended if you would like to change
advisors!
For further information contact the faculty
member or the
department secretary in the
Departmental office: Colden Hall, room 2440 (x1260).
