Characteristics of Effective Advisors
Academic advising is an opportunity to teach and inspire students. As an academic advisor the development and success of your advisees hinge on the relationship established between you and the students you advise. This requires the advisor/advisee relationship be 1) ongoing and purposeful; 2) challenging for the student, but supportive; 3) goal oriented; and 4) intentional as it maximizes the use of university resources (Gordon, 2000).
A Good Advisor:
- Demonstrates concern for each advisee- The ideal relationship is one that is non-judgmental and based on having a genuine interest in and respect for the students and her/his welfare.
- Is available and accessible – Post and keep office hours, create an e-mail distribution list of advisees and send them periodic e-mails, seek out advisees in informal settings (i.e. Student Center, cultural and social events), take an advisee to lunch in the cafeteria, and encourage your advisees to “drop by” and let you know what’s going on.
- Takes initiative to contact advisees – Students, especially first-year students and new advisees, are hesitant to make “first” contact. Send an advisee a note or stop and talk with them on campus.
- Is a good listener - We learn much more when we sit back and listen. Usually, our first impulse is to want to make decisions for and direct advisees to the resolution of the problem or concern being presented. In most instances, what students really need is for someone to listen to them and help clarify things. When we take time to actively listen to students we can gain greater insight into their concerns and challenges.
- Is realistic – Be genuine and realistic with your advisees. Do not “sugar coat” the issue at hand. Students want and deserve a realistic appraisal of their situation and/or presenting problem. Remember, respect is built on honesty and genuineness.
- Makes referrals to other individuals/offices – When referring a student to another individual or office, explain the reasons for the referral. Have students contact referral sources in your presence. if appropriate, walk the student to individual/office. If the student is making contact via e-mail, ask the student to copy you on the correspondence. Ask the student to let you know the outcome. You can also inform the individual of office you have referred a student.
- Provides accurate information – Having accurate information is critical to quality advising. Make sure you have update information on academic policies and procedures, program and graduation requirements, and know how to access information in the student handbook, university catalog, PENpal and the university web site.
- Keeps good records – Maintain an advising file for each advisee. Keep a copy of the student’s schedule, program planning sheet, any forms you have signed, and notes of each meeting focusing on problems, referrals, action plans, etc. In preparation for your next/follow-up meeting review, the notes and other pertinent information.
- Recognize accomplishments – Congratulate students on their successes. Whether by e-mail, a pat on the back, a note, etc. it is important for your advisees to know you value and applaud their efforts and accomplishments.
(adapted from: Habley, W.R., Ed. The Status and Future of Academic Advising: Problems and Promise. The ACT national Center for the Advancement of Educational Practice (1989)