Advising syllabus

Academic advising at WSU Vancouver

Academic advising is a developmental and collaborative process in which students seek and receive guidance in the development and achievement of meaningful academic and career goals that are consistent with their interests, values and abilities. While the ultimate responsibility rests with the individual student, academic advisors guide students as they think critically, seek out resources, and develop action steps in an atmosphere of mutual respect and learning.

Students and advisors play a role in achieving this vision of academic advising.


Student's responsibility

  • Schedule appointments with your advisor each semester prior to registering and as needed for follow up. Arrive promptly to scheduled appointments.
  • Acknowledge a degree requires a minimum of 120 semester credits to finish and pace to completion will vary depending on how many credits are taken each term. I will consult with my advisor to create a projected graduation time line.
  • Check WSU email and Blackboard daily.
  • Assess the fit of your academic goals with your interests, values and abilities and evaluate progress towards these goals.
  • Actively take part in the advising process through participation in advising meetings and follow-up activities.
  • Use tools available to develop and take action towards educational goals.
  • Access appropriate campus services and resources to promote academic success.

Advisor's responsibility

  • Provide personal, meaningful connection and respectful interaction with each student.
  • Facilitate student’s problem-solving, decision making and evaluation skills.
  • Assist students with clarifying their educational and career goals.
  • Evaluate and monitor student academic progress and its impact on achievement of goals, advising on the selection of appropriate courses and other educational experiences.
  • Facilitate an appropriate balance between efficient degree and/or program completion and the development of academic interest and intellectual development.
  • Provide accurate and timely referrals to other campus and community resources.

Advising appointment preparation

Schedule your appointment in the fall, spring and any other time you’d like to meet with us.

Before your appointment

Come prepared to your appointment by:

  • Preparing a list of classes that interest you for the next semester by looking at your “What-if Report” in myWSU.
  • Checking your hold(s) on My Student Center in myWSU and contact appropriate offices for assistance.
  • Making a list of questions for your appointment.
  • Thinking about your major and your goals.
  • Reviewing the Academic Calendar and University Events online for important dates and deadlines.

During your appointment

  • Arrive on time for your appointment.
  • I am here to assist, guide and help you make the most out of your time at WSU Vancouver.
  • Discuss your questions, the current and next term, your major, goals, getting involved, campus resources and much more.
  • Ask follow-up questions.
  • Take notes!

After your appointment

  • Take action on items discussed.
  • Register for the next term on your enrollment date in myWSU.
  • Follow up on any questions you may still have via email, phone or advising appointment.