Academic Advising

What does an adviser do?

Advisers are people who care, people who listen and who have a wealth of valuable information. They are faculty or staff members who have long-time experience helping college students just like you. They all know the ins and outs of succeeding at BGSU Firelands.

Why should I see an academic adviser?

You can ask them almost anything! Your academic adviser is not a know-it-all, but can answer all kinds of questions, help you through administrative red tape, and steer you in the direction of other resources on campus. Your adviser can even help you with personal concerns.

See your academic adviser with questions like these:

• Which classes should I take next semester?
• What should I do if I want to change my major?
• How can I know if I’m thinking about the right career?
• Will I be able to graduate on time?
• What can I do to raise my grade point average?
• Was college the right choice for me?
• What are my degree requirements?
• How do I go on to the main campus?
• What should I do if I’m failing a class?

What does my academic adviser expect from me?

Advisers expect you to take responsibility for being a college student. Your adviser is just that - an adviser. You and your adviser are partners. Your adviser will NOT make your choices for you, tell you what to do, or when to do it. It’s YOUR responsibility to make appointments with your adviser when it’s time to register for courses, check your progress toward graduation or interpret University policies. The Student Services Office will probably contact you by memo or email to remind you of upcoming course registrations, but it’s up to you to:

• Prepare for advising appointments;
• Maintain a file of advising materials;
• Keep track of your academic progress;
• Know how to complete program requirements;
• Ask questions and follow up on the advice that’s given;
• Explore your options;
• Seek help before a situation becomes a crisis.

Where can I go for academic help?

Office of Student Services, 101 West Building
The Teaching and Learning Center, 230 North Building

When is a good time for me to contact my academic adviser?

An ideal time to contact your adviser is before you register for classes each semester. Registration takes place in advance of each semester. As a currently registered student, you will schedule future courses during the middle of the term. All students are encouraged to see an adviser to help with course selection. The advice is free and can help you improve your chances for success at BGSU Firelands and stay on target for graduation!

Where do I find my academic adviser?

As an entering student, you are assigned a faculty adviser in the academic department of your major. Contact this faculty adviser for detailed information about your major, including the specific courses to schedule. If you can’t remember who your adviser is, check with the staff members in the Student Services Office (101 West Building). If you don’t have the name and number of the adviser to whom you were assigned during New Student Orientation or if you have decided to change your major, stop by Student Services to find the answer.
Academic advisers have one goal: To help you achieve your goals and become responsible, independent students.

What’s the overall best advice to help me succeed at BGSU Firelands?

Get acquainted with your academic adviser and take advantage of all the resources BGSU Firelands has to offer. Consider these standard words of wisdom: Attend all classes and sit near the front of the room; Learn to manage your time; Complete all reading assignments; Do homework regularly; Get to know your instructors; Get to know your fellow students; Ask for help when you need it.

Support for Success

• The Firelands Library provides access to over 29,000 volumes, is computer-linked to the more than 4 million items available through BGSU’s libraries
• Free Tutoring is offered at The Teaching and Learning Center
• Career Planning and Job Search Assistance are offered by the Office of Career Services
• Financial Aid and counseling are available from the  Office of Student Financial Aid

For Further Information

Amy McKinley
Manager, Academic Advising
BGSU Firelands College
One University Drive Huron, Ohio 44839
(419) 433-5560 ext. 20621
email: amckinl@bgsu.edu