Full time faculty members serve as academic advisors.  Academic Advisors are familiar with the program requirements for majors they advise and can help clarify University policies and procedures.  Advisors can help you set appropriate goals and decide on strategies for accomplishing those goals.  In addition, advisors can provide a listening ear, share in your achievements and disappointments, answer questions, and direct you to other appropriate services.  Advisors work with Career Services to help you explore educational and career opportunities, plus internships and part-time employment prospects.

WHY WOULD I MEET WITH AN ACADEMIC ADVISOR?

1. Request information about academic programs
2. Clarify policies and procedures
3. Register for classees
4. Add or drop or classes
5. Understand degree requirements
6. Monitor progress toward a degree
7. Discuss academic problems
8. Share personal concerns
9. Benefit from a listener who cares

WHAT IS MY ROLE AS THE STUDENT IN THE ADVISING PARTNERSHIP? 

1. Take initiative - meet with your advisor
2. Prepare for advising appointments
3. Know and complete program requirements
4. Have a long-range academic plan
5. Maintain a file of advising materials
6. Ask questions and always follow up
7. Share information honestly
8. Explore options
9. Seek help before a situation escalates into a crisis
10. Audit academic records frequently

WHAT IS THE ADVISOR?S ROLE IN THE ADVISING PARTNERSHIP?

1. Provide accurate information
2. Interpret policies and procedures
3. Listen to problems and concerns
4. Make referrals for other services
5. Assist with appropriate course selection
6. Help with goal setting
7. Encourage career exploration 

Monitoring progress toward a degree is your responsibility. Academic advisors provide information and serve as consultants in the audit process, but you must understand degree requirements and know when and how those requirements will be satisfied.

WHEN AND HOW WILL I SCHEDULE MY CLASSES?

Registration takes place in advance of each semester.  New students register for classes with an Admissions Counselor. Current students begin registering for the next semester classes during scheduled registration times in the prior semester. You must meet with your academic advisor to register for classes.

CAN I CHANGE MY CLASS SCHEDULE?

Yes. Concordia allows for schedule changes - called dropping and adding of classes. There is a time frame for adding classes in the beginning of the semester and also dropping a class without penalty. If you are concerned about any class, see your academic advisor to discuss your options.

CAN I CHANGE MY MAJOR?

Yes, many college students are uncertain about careers and majors.  Career Services has resources and information to assist you in exploring a variety of career opportunities for different majors.  Changing majors may result in changes to degree requirements.  Consult with your advisor and/or department you wish to switch to.

WHAT CAN I DO TO IMPROVE MY CHANCES FOR SUCCESS AT CUW?

Attend classes	Learn to manage your time
Do home work regularly	Complete all reading assignments
Become involved in activities	Get to know your instructors
Ask for help when needed	Register and maintain a  connection with Career Services

WHERE CAN I GO FOR ACADEMIC HELP?

Your Academic Advisor	Professors/Instructors
Academic Skills Workshops	Learning Center
Writing Lab	Tutor Sessions
Supplemental Help Sessions	Study Groups

CAN MY PARENTS TALK TO MY ACADEMIC ADVISOR?

Of course, but remember that the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) prevents advisors from disclosing confidential information about your academic record. Advisors can, however, answer your parents? questions about the policies and procedures of the university and can provide appropriate referrals.