Academic Advising: Student Services Division
Professional Advisors in the Student Services Division provide essential support to students enrolled in both college transfer and associate in applied science degrees, diplomas, and certificate programs. Advisors play a key role in assisting students through the onboarding process, providing academic advising, and offering success coaching.
Onboarding and Advising for New Students
Upon enrollment, new students are guided through a comprehensive onboarding process by Professional Advisors. This process includes:
- Career and Program Alignment: Advisors help assure that students have selected the appropriate academic program based on their career interests and goals.
- Educational Planning: Advisors work with students to develop an educational plan that outlines the necessary courses to complete their program.
- Student Portal Instruction: Advisors provide initial instruction on how to navigate the student portal and use associated software systems.
- Resource Introduction: Advisors inform students about available resources such as academic support services, student support services, and community agencies.
Advising for students in the Associate in Arts and Associate in Science programs: Academic advising is provided by Professional Advisors into the students’ first year, helping to assure that students are following the appropriate academic pathway for their intended 4-year college or university. Students transition to faculty advising for continued academic guidance and degree completion.
Advising for students in Associate in Engineering (AE), Associate in Fine Arts, Music or Visual Arts (AFA), and Associate in Applied Science Degree, Diploma, and Certificate programs (AAS):
Professional Advisors support students in AFA, AE, and AAS programs by guiding them through the enrollment process, assisting with course selection, and facilitating their transition to faculty advising. Advisors ensure that students are aware of their faculty advisor assignments at the beginning of their first semester.
Advising as a Teaching Process
Advising is considered a teaching process that fosters student empowerment, independence, and confidence in managing their academic journey. Advisors engage in proactive coaching to help students:
- Understand degree requirements and plan their course schedules accordingly.
- Navigate academic systems and successfully use institutional tools such as the student portal and software.
- Access and utilize resources that enhance their academic and personal success.
Advisors regularly review students' programs of study, assist with educational planning, and ensure that students are on track to meet their academic goals.
Success Coaching
Success coaching is an integral part of the advising process, designed to provide students with the skills needed for academic success. Advisors work with students to develop strategies for:
- Time management
- Study habits and academic performance
- Goal setting and achievement
Coaching helps students address personal and academic challenges, ultimately supporting their persistence and success.
Student Engagement Software
Professional Advisors utilize student engagement software to track and document academic progress, communicate with students, and facilitate ongoing support. The software enables:
- Follow-up on academic alerts, ensuring students receive timely intervention when needed.
- Communication with students about critical deadlines, academic performance, and available support resources.
- Connection to institutional resources that support academic and personal success, including tutoring, counseling, and other services.
Student Services Advising Offices are at the following locations:
Eason Student Services Building (Statesville Campus)
George W. Brawley, Jr. Building (Mooresville Campus)