The Advising Process

The advising process is a very important facet to the academic portion of your Randolph-Macon Experience. Keep reading for some tips, tricks, and recommendations for how to make the most of your advisor and advising sessions!

Priorities and Many Decisions

As you are completing your degree, you will set your own priorities regarding your success in reaching your academic goals. There will be many decisions you face from scheduling courses to answering questions such as: do I double major, what about a minor and, of course, what are my life goals?

Outside of academic affairs, we encourage you to discover extra-curricular activities and begin planning for the future by exploring and utilizing the Edge program.

Your academic advisor is here to guide you through exploring and the decision-making process so that you can reach your academic, career, and life goals.

Your Advisor

When should you see your advisor?

  • During registration each semester
  • prior to the start of the term or during the first add/drop period IF you need to discuss schedule changes for that term
  • To discuss problems that may impact your academic performance
  • To consult about exploring majors, selecting a major or changing majors?
  • For referral to academic and campus resources to assist you in reaching your academic goals.
  • To discuss your four-year graduation plan, additional majors/minors and explore study abroad opportunities, research, and internships related to your academic goals.

How Should you see your advisor?

  • Know your advisor’s office hours and schedule an appointment during an available time
  • Know the location of your advisor’s office
  • Be aware of busy times such as registration or final exam week. Don’t wait until the last minute
  • Know your advisor’s contact information (e-mail, office phone)
  • Look for an email from your advisor with instructions about signing up for an advising meeting prior to Registration

How Do you prepare to see your advisor?

  • Read the Academic Catalog to become familiar with policies, procedures, course offerings, academic programs, etc. Ask your advisor to clarify those areas that you do not understand.
  • Use MyMaconWeb to keep up with your requirements, grades, etc.
  • Put thought and research into developing academic, career, and personal goals, and be ready to examine how these goals will affect your life.
  • Bring your catalog, a list of questions, and something to write with to each meeting.