Issue #3 Spring 2009
Advising and Retention
Steve Johnson, University Advising

Advising and retention go hand-in-hand. The positive actions of an advisor working with students can make all the difference in retaining them at the University. With the collective effort of campus-wide advisors utilizing complete and accurate student data, student retention multiplies.

University Advising (UA) has developed specific practices to support our undeclared student population. It is our intent to engage students early and often as they work toward completion of their general education requirements while simultaneously exploring majors.

“Early Alert” reports, developed by UA, identify students who are demonstrating academic difficulty at any point in their academic career.  By identifying these students, advising efforts across campus can address their needs and increase the likelihood of their success. The primary goal is to improve the student’s motivation and performance.

In addition, we have developed reports used by many advisors that identify students at academic risk, or those who have been placed on academic warning, probation, or suspension status. UA also identifies students who have 45+ and 60+ credits who have not declared a major. These students are sent helpful e-mail messages, and depending upon their academic situation, may have registration holds placed on their records. Such students are required to meet with an advisor before they can register for the next semester.

An academic advisor meets with each student in a professional and supportive setting. We assist students in exploring majors by identifying areas of interest, and make recommendations for courses that best fit the students’ interests. Often, students within a declared major ask to become an undeclared student, and we discuss courses relating to a more suitable major.

We engage in dialogue with every student regarding their background and interests. These interviews are generally 15 to 30 minutes in length. Based on the information gathered, students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with a specific advisor/faculty member to discuss common interests, ranging from majors to career opportunities. We also review the courses they have taken, as well as those in progress. Advisors are careful to identify courses that do not complement the student’s interests or major requirements, and encourage them to make the necessary changes.

This visit also provides an opportunity for the advisor to review the student’s GPA and ACT scores. If a student demonstrates high academic achievement, we provide information regarding the scholarship programs available.  If a student has academic challenges, we discuss strategies and resources to ensure their academic success.

We encourage students to meet with their academic advisor early and often to help them make informed decisions about their education. The advisors at the University Advising Center are committed to helping students meet their academic, career, and personal goals.  For additional information regarding University Advising programs and services, please visit http://www.usu.edu/advising or contact us at (435) 797-3373.

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