Academic Advisor's Handbook

Tahlequah · Broken Arrow Muskogee	Academic Advisor's Handbook
	I. Academic Advising
	II. Characteristics of Student Populations
	III. Promoting Academic Success
	IV. Academic Options
	V. Options for Receiving Credit
	VI. Academic Policies and Procedures
	VII. Online Resource Guide

II. Characteristics of Student Populations

• Developmental

Aspects
• Nontraditional

Students
• Multicultural

Aspects
• Students with

Disabilities

Advising is a process that links students' needs and educational experiences from freshman through senior years and beyond. This process evolves gradually within the framework of the degree program and the student's level of maturation. Where students are in this progression helps to determine what kind of assistance they need from advisors. The following chart identifies these stages, provides examples of some academic and personal issues within each stage, and gives examples of how advisors may respond.

	Academic	Personal	Advisor's Role
Freshman	Fearful of failing Unsure of requirements Confused or unrealistic expectations New academic demands Vague career goals	Managing emotions Finding a social fit Exposure to new values Increased financial worries Separation from family Adjusting to life changes Anxious/vulnerable	Be accessible Be a good listener Provide support Give information on requirements, courses Be nonjudgmental Make referrals
Sophomore	More aware of expectations Tired of school Impatient to get into major Pressure to find a major	Mixed confidence level Increased self-awareness Developing support systems Campus involvement More relaxed	Encourage further exploration Help with assessment of skills Focus options on realistic choices
Junior	Settled into a major or desperately seeking one Looking for enhancements (e.g., minor or double major) Developing faculty relations Application of learning	Balance of work, study, and free time More confident Looking beyond college Leadership roles in organizations	Begin mentor relationship Encourage responsibilities Provide information on graduate school/careers Encourage creativity to enhance degree
Senior	Winding down Applying and integrating knowledge Commencing job search/preparing for grad school Graduation audit	Nervous Stressed Unsure of future Transition to independent adult	Assist with graduation audit Prepare student to make transition Continue discussion of career Continue mentor relationship Write recommendations

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Text courtesy of George Mason University
Tahlequah · 918-456-5511, 1-800-722-9614 · Broken Arrow · 918-449-6000 · Muskogee · 918-683-0040