Students can now nominate advisers for the 2023 Penn State Excellence in Academic Advising Award.
Students at all Penn State campuses are encouraged to nominate an adviser who has helped them navigate their academics, plan their program of study, and manage their unique educational journey. Nominations for the Penn State Excellence in Academic Advising Award are due by Monday, November 28. The advisers selected will be recognized by the University in the spring.
Academic advisers are a crucial part of student success from the point of enrollment through graduation. While advisers assist students with academic planning and aid, they also play an integral role in guiding students to potential programs that will enhance their experiences as college students and beyond.
Maintaining regular contact with an adviser ensures students stay on track by talking about degree progress, upcoming course schedules, and any difficulties students may be facing. They can also help students get involved with their campus community and discover potential leadership opportunities.
How academic advisers can help students
Academic exploration
From major and minor choices to registering for courses, academic advisers guide Penn State students to make the best decisions for their career goals while also fulfilling degree requirements.
Identify campus resources
Along with academic planning and support, advisers can assist students with getting involved on campus through groups and organizations, explain University policy and procedure, help students get in contact with World Campus Student Disability Services, and much more.
Graduation planning
At the beginning of a student’s last semester, they will need to apply for graduation in LionPATH. Academic advisers ensure students have taken the correct courses to complete the requirements for their degrees.
Connect with an adviser
Academic advisers do so much more! Students are encouraged to meet with their adviser regularly by sending an email or scheduling a phone or Zoom appointment via Starfish. Connecting with an adviser is a great way to get questions answered and stay on track.
