Academic Advising Mission Statement
Academic Advising is integral to the college’s mission as a learning community as it emphasizes dynamic advisor-student interaction. Advisors act as mentors and guides in partnerships designed to engage students in the intentional development of strategies to complete their educational goals through the use of college resources.
Advising supports the liberal arts mission of the college through a healthy exchange of ideas outside the classroom, helping students make reasoned choices and informed judgments while assuming responsibility for meeting academic program requirements.
Both advisor and advisee strive to put the education of the student as the highest priority while being committed to the ideals of Franciscan, liberal arts, and person centered education.
Learning outcomes:
1. Students will craft a coherent educational plan that is consistent with their abilities, aspirations, interests and values.
Strategies:
Learn about programs
One-on-one meetings with advisor to develop strategy for completion of degree
Understand degree requirements and create a plan for completion
Regularly assess progress toward educational plan
2. Students will use the resources of the college to set goals, make decisions, and accurately interpret college requirements.
Strategies
Learn about study strategies needed for success
Participate in support programming
Attend orientation
Use information on Advising web pages
Use advising planner
Run/read CAPP report
Definition of Advising: A learning process of problem-solving and decision-making through which a student explores possibilities and seeks information from professionals of the college. The goal of this dynamic relationship is to satisfy educational plans that are compatible with meaningful personal and career aspirations.
Responsibilities of Advisors
- Provide accurate and up-to-date information about Siena regulations, policies, and procedures
- Correctly interpret degree and major requirements, including those regarding the Core curriculum
- Maintain confidentiality, and be knowledgeable of the Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
- Keep regular office hours and be available for student appointments
- Help students define and develop realistic goals
- Be knowledgeable about Siena resources (study skills, tutoring, career exploration), and make appropriate referrals
- Assist students with planning programs consistent with their abilities and interests and in keeping with Siena’s requirements
- Assist students in monitoring their degree progress and in keeping their academic records accurate
- Discuss links between academic preparation and world of work
Responsibilities of Advisees:
- Gather all relevant decision-making information
- Clarify personal values and goals
- Become knowledgeable about college programs, policies, and procedures
- Be an active learner by participating fully in the advising experience
- Ask questions if you do not understand an issue or have a concern
- Accept responsibility for decisions
