Advising Partnership
To ensure success during your college career, it is important to understand what the advisor's and student's roles are in the advising partnership.
Advisor's Roles & Responsibilities
Information and Policy Expertise
- Provide accurate and timely information regarding university academic policies, procedures, degree requirements, and important deadlines.
- Maintain confidentiality of student records and information in compliance with FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act), unless required by law or university policy.
- Refer the student to appropriate campus resources (e.g., tutoring, career services, counseling, financial aid) based on their expressed academic or personal needs.
Professional Conduct and Communication
- Foster an inclusive and respectful environment that values diverse perspectives and experiences.
- Maintain availability for scheduled appointments and posted walk-in hours.
- Respond to student inquiries within a reasonable timeframe* (two business days).
- OSA is not open on weekends or during holidays/breaks. Response time may be slower during peak advising periods
Partnership and Development
- Monitor and discuss the student's academic progress, alert them to potential issues, and suggest appropriate interventions.
- Help the student clarify and define realistic academic plans and long-term career goals.
- Encourage students to take ownership of their educational journey and become effective self-advocates, while offering continuous support as needed.
Student's Role & Responsibilities
Preparing for & Participating in Advising Sessions
- Schedule and attend all advising appointments.
- Consult with your Advisor on a regular basis (at least once per semester).
- Prepare for advising meetings ahead of time by formulating questions and familiarizing yourself with academic requirements.
- Actively engage in all discussions and decision-making regarding academic planning and career goals.
Information and Communication
- Check Florida Tech email daily at a minimum. All official Office of Student Advising (OSA) and university communications will be sent exclusively to the student's @my.fit.edu email address.
- Notify your advisor promptly of any significant academic, personal, or financial challenges that may affect academic progress.
- Ask for help when you need it, show initiative and make use of campus resources such as the Student Success & Support Center, Student Health and Counseling Services, Accessibility Resources, Career Services, and more.
Ownership and Decision-Making
- Take ownership of your education by accepting final responsibility for all academic decisions.
- Utilize advising meetings effectively to seek timely guidance and clarification on academic standing, registration issues, and resource referrals.
- Apply information gained in advising to become a proactive and self-advocating learner throughout your academic journey.