Eberly College Statement on Advising

The College’s student-centric advising philosophy includes supporting our students’ immediate academic goals and long-term career aspirations. Advising efforts are built upon the principles of collaboration and shared responsibility. The student is expected to become an active participant in the advising process. Our proactive approach involves engaging students in meaningful conversation so they may explore pertinent questions concerning their academic careers. Additionally, it involves assisting students in discovering the practical skills necessary to understand issues such as academic preparation and requirements, college transition, and future careers.

Advising is Always Evolving. Eberly College diligently responds to changes in University, State, and Federal policy. In turn, our advising professionals respond to the changing nature of higher education and stay abreast of changes in our field and our institution. 

Students should be aware that policies regarding their academics are subject to change and they should be ready to investigate new opportunities and follow new regulations.

Advisers should participate in continuous professional development to stay current with changes in academic policies and to sharpen their skill set.

Advising is a Collaborative Exchange. Eberly College strives to develop reciprocal relationships with our students. Our advisers provide an environment that encourages student input.

Students must understand and meet their degree requirements, and are encouraged to use advisers as knowledgeable resources. The student’s responsibility will increase as they advance in their studies and continue to have access to departmental, college, and university resources.  

Advisers set expectations and guide students through academic policies and procedures. Mentoring gives students the tools they need to develop their career objective. In order to address student circumstances, advisers must identify, use, and share departmental, college, and university resources.

Advising is a Shared Responsibility. Understanding that college is often a time of transitioning toward greater self-reliance, Eberly College advisers stress the importance of our students’ ability to be responsible for their academics.

Students will want to be self-motivated agents that seek assistance from advisers as they pursue their academic career. Our students gradually build greater independence as they master the skills of a successful student. They should:

• Read emails from advisers and academic offices
• Review notes in Degree Works
• Familiarize themselves with major and degree requirements before advising meetings
• Follow through when asked to complete tasks

Advisers are expected to be informed and pragmatic in their response to students’ academic progress. They should:

• Stay up-to-date with policies and procedures
• Be responsible and available to student concerns and needs
• Document and address student issues efficiently and transparently in Degree Works
• Utilize college and university tools and technologies 

Advising is about Goal Setting. Eberly College advisers engage in meaningful conversations with students to assist in short- and long-term goal setting

Students and Advisers develop goals by:

• Planning courses and schedules for future semesters
• Considering and attaining academic benchmarks
• Identifying attainable post-baccalaureate options
• Discussing Financial Aid as it relates to academic coursework (please note: academic advisers do not conduct financial advising; WVU students work with the Mountaineer HUB on all financial issues)

Students will actively explore course options, career and post-baccalaureate options, and review financial commitments.

Advisers will ask questions, share resources and information, and help develop academic planning in line with career goals.