In light of the recent changes to the advising system, we have been thinking about what exactly it is we want to see addressed about the current setup. During the stressful period of pre-registration, some feel advisors act as mere “clickers,” finalizing schedules without discussion or guidance. Many would likely agree that advisors do not necessarily live up to their duties.
The administration and faculty can work together to improve the advising system. We suggest offering a workshop that helps professors learn how to better advise their students. In addition to going over the nuts and bolts of the registration process, such a workshop could help professors better guide students with more personal issues.
At Wesleyan, where the issues of the classroom and the dorm room are closely linked, we feel that this skill is an essential one. Advisors often make little effort to get to know students outside of registration. Many students would benefit from a closer relationship with their advisor.
Coordination and communication comprise another area where the current advising system falls short. Students who double major often lack proper go-between with their two advisors. A ten-minute phone call once a semester is a simple and quick way to bring the goals of both major programs into accordance.
But it’s a two-way street. Students have to put real effort into this student-advisor relationship if they wish to gain something valuable from it. Students complain that they only meet with their advisor during a hectic five-minute pre-registration meeting. However, advisors are always available during office hours. Students should take advantage of this opportunity to form a stronger rapport.
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