DUS: Academic Advising and the First Year of College

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Academic Advising and the First Year of College

As an entering Penn State student, there are some things you should know about the characteristics of new first-year students, the process of educational planning, and the role of academic advising as an important part of your college education.

First, you should understand that educational planning—selecting a major and possibly a minor field and defining the personal meaning of your college education—is part of an ongoing process. That is, such planning takes place over time, involves continuous examination, and frequently includes modification or change.

Second, this planning process varies from one student to another because students differ in their interests, abilities, the certainty they feel about their plans, and the factors that influence their plans. But one thing is clear—college students frequently change their educational plans. Typically, at least 50% change their goals as they progress through college.

You may be a student who never varies from your initial choices; on the other hand, you could be a student who changes. There is no way you can be sure at this time. Therefore, it can be helpful for you to view your educational plans as tentative, plans that should be tested and confirmed or not confirmed, especially during your first year.

Third, academic advising, especially during your first year, can help you evaluate your educational plans as you acquire more academic experience. This evaluation will help you refine your plans and decide whether you should continue toward your original goals or begin to develop new ones.

Your reactions to your college courses will be important. Very likely you will find some courses more interesting than others, and you will earn better grades in certain courses than in others. Your adviser can help you relate these academic experiences to the major fields you are considering. Also, your adviser can help you develop an accurate understanding of those majors. New first-year students often lack a complete and accurate understanding of their intended majors, so their educational planning may not be well conceived.

By working closely with your academic adviser you can make sure your educational plans are well founded and that you have considered the wide range of Penn State educational programs best suited to your personal characteristics. Beginning with your first year, active involvement in this academic advising process will greatly enhance your chances of graduating with an educational plan most satisfying to you.