Advising

Purpose:

The University of West Alabama believes advising is a holistic approach to the development of the student through a mutual academic relationship between the advisor and the student, which includes academic advising, career exploration, and identification of campus and community resources.

Mission:

The mission of advising is to foster a personalized partnership between student and advisor that promotes active and responsible learning. Our purpose is also to facilitate student ownership of their educational experience and assist students in identifying and clarifying academic, career, and personal goals.

Process:

UWA uses a split model of advising, using both a centralized advising system as well as faculty advising. Incoming students (freshmen and transfer students with less than 24 credit hours) are assigned a Star Advisor who works closely with each student during the first two years on campus. Students meet with their advisor at least twice each semester, as well as during the pre-registration period. The goal of each meeting is to assist students in identifying resources and activities that help them formulate goals and develop a plan to achieve those goals. Star Advisors use the Appreciative Advising philosophy in working with students.

Once a student obtains at least 45 credit hours, they are transitioned to a faculty advisor in their major and/or college. While Star Advisors work with students to formulate goals and develop a plan to meet those goals, faculty advisors are more specialized in their fields and can begin assisting students in accomplishing their set goals. Faculty advisors can provide students with information on graduate schools and/or career options in their chosen fields. They may also assist students in developing a professional network in their respective areas of interest.