How do I make my conversation with my advisor a success?
- Do not be afraid to ask questions! Your advisor is there to answer them. Do not fear that it is a “dumb” question. Policies and procedures on a university campus can be very complex, so asking questions is an excellent way to get a handle on them.
- Take an active role in your advising sessions. Come to your appointment prepared with questions and materials. This is your educational process, and you have the right to participate in shaping it!
- Get to know your academic advisor. This person is your advocate and can serve you better if they know you! For instance, if your advisor knows you are interested in studying abroad and a scholarship comes available to fund study abroad, he/she can contact you. Also, students often seek letter of recommendation from their advisors, so be sure they have plenty of good things to write about you!