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 I describe my role to my students as being their navigator, partner, and advocate in higher education. I am here to help them navigate the policies and procedures of higher education. As their partner in academic success I am here to give honest answers even when it is not what they want to hear. I am here to give them the most up-to-date and correct information to help them make the most informed decisions. As their advocate I am here to be their voice when they are unable to speak for themselves.My advice for anyone interested in becoming an adviser is you need tact, patience, honesty and empathy; these are essential. You will answer the same question a million times in your career, but it is the first time that student probably has asked it and your answer will set the tone for their future expectations of your school, you, and the profession. Your goal is to work side by side with your students and not lead them. This is pretty much the same way I would describe what I do to my best friend. My descriptions vary only in semantics; the crux of the message is essentially the same. ~ Anthony Rivas, M.A., lead academic advisor, The Art Institute of Colorado, July 16, 2008 To an advisee: As your academic adviser, I look forward to helping you with any issues or concerns you may have with your choices, your courses, or your school. I will be your advocate and provide sources of solutions to your issues, and I will help get you registered and always listen to you. You have made a bold decision to continue your studies and fulfill your educational goals.To a future adviser: As an academic adviser, you will be both a participant and witness to life's unfolding pageant in the progress of your student's quest to earn a degree. There are hills and valleys, sorrow and joys, truth and consequence. Time and life move on at a sometimes harrowing pace, and you are there participating in a very special way to help develop a path to learning success. You will make a difference in the lives of many people, not only the student, but also those around him. To a best friend: Sometimes I feel like I died and went to heaven: working to affirm and encourage students in the cause of making a better life for each one. Sometimes I am frustrated and sorrowful that the student does not see the hope and denies the expectations of myself, friends, and family when in fact he could be quite successful. This career provides a unique relationship between the student and myself and the opportunity to mend broken dreams and support students during darker days. I am sometimes the silver lining, or at least I can help search for and point out the silver linings. ~ John R. McCluney III, academic advisor, Kaplan University Online, July 17, 2008 The Mentor is published by Penn State's Division of Undergraduate Studies Available online at www.psu.edu/dus/mentor/ Privacy and Legal Statements | Copyright | © The Pennsylvania State University | All rights reserved | |
