Responsibilities

Shared Success: Working with Your Advisor

The Tulane Academic Advising Center is here to help you make the best choices when it comes to your major and degree decisions.

We can’t do it alone. The level of your participation is directly related to our shared success. Work with us to help you make the right choices. Your academic advisor is your primary resource for advice on academic issues, course selection and requirements. Both of us must fulfill our responsibilities in order to be successful.

Together, we can achieve your goals.

Advisor Responsibilities:
1. Explain university policies, regulations, programs, and procedures
2. Be available to meet with you each semester during regular office hours
3. Advise on course selection and assist you in developing an academic plan that satisfies your degree requirements.
4. Listen to your concerns and refer you to the appropriate support services if needed
5. Discuss with you your academic performance and the implications for the programs you desire to pursue.
6. Help you explore your interests, abilities, and goals as they relate to your majors.
7. Be knowledgeable about career opportunities and the university’s Career Services Center.
8. Act as a mentor with a goal of helping you become independent and self-directed.

Student Responsibilities:
1. Take the initiative and contact your advisor. If you can’t meet during regular hours, make other arrangements.
2. Prepare a list of questions or concerns before each meeting.
3. Draft a tentative schedule prior to registration.
4. Come to your meeting with your advisor prepared to make informed decisions:

• Ask questions! If you don’t understand a requirement or policy, we are happy to answer your questions.
• Be familiar with the requirements of your major(s), and schedule courses each semester in accordance with those requirements.
• Know the prerequisites for each course and discuss with your advisor how they will affect the sequencing of your courses.

5. Observe academic deadlines. Know when to register and when to drop or add classes. Set up appointments with your advisor well in advance of these deadlines.
6. Keep your advisor informed about changes in your academic progress, course selection, and academic/career goals.
7. Keep a personal record of your progress towards your degree. Organize official academic records.
8. Inform your advisor or the Dean's Office immediately whenever a serious problem (medical, financial, personal) disrupts your ability to attend classes.