First-year students are unfamiliar with ASU-Beebe
policy, college expectations and the many campus services available to
them. Advisors often spend more time advising a first-year student than
the seasoned returning student.
The first year is the ideal time to set
the pace for a well-established, mutual relationship between the two
parties. First-year students can benefit from advisors who use proactive
or "intrusive" measures.
Advisors may encourage several meetings during
the first one or two semesters in college. Email, phone calls, and
postcards can be an ideal supplemental means of communication for some
new advisees and advisor (especially for the advisor who has a heavy
advising load).
Determine appropriate class placement
based on previous academic work, assessment scores and student
dialogue. High school transcripts should be in the student’s file.
Campus Connect should give advisors access to most student records.
Give a general overview of general
education coursework and suggest an appropriate schedule including a
combination of general education and/or major coursework.
Monitor credit load and check academic
progress periodically.
Encourage appropriate level of campus
involvement.
Discuss college expectations, services,
and resources.
Discuss the advising relationship
(benefits, expectations).
Assist student in establishment of
preliminary goals. Some first-year students are undecided or will
change their major and goals must have a level of flexibility to
accommodate the many changes first-year students endure.
Send email correspondence to remind of
important dates and to build a level of rapport with students.
