Academic Advising

Academic advising is an important part of the learning process at Messiah University that encourages students to discern and develop their interests and talents in preparation for professional and community engagement. As part of a “carefully mentored, Christ-centered journey of the intellect and spirit,” advisors assist students in their intentional exploration and planning of educational opportunities. This relationship is perhaps best thought of as a partnership between students and educators: students are personally responsible for planning their academic program and co-curricular involvement to meet all graduation requirements and develop their sense of vocation; advisors help students make good choices compatible with their academic plans and life goals.

Academic Advisors should:

  1. understand General Education requirements, major requirements, as well as the overlap between the two;
  2. understand academic policies and procedures;
  3. assist students to establish academic goals compatible with the student’s life goals;
  4. encourage students to enhance academic performance and seek academic challenges;
  5. assist students to develop course schedules which consider the student’s academic goals and background
  6. monitor student academic progress and encourage good academic work;
  7. encourage students to pursue appropriate educational opportunities;
  8. refer students to appropriate resources available to help students:
    1. solve individual problems (e.g., Engle Center, Student Success & Engagement, Learning Center, Writing Center, Financial Aid, and Academic Accessibility);
    2. identify, plan and explore educational opportunities (e.g. Career and Professional Development Center, Agape Center, Student Leadership and Involvement, Collaboratory, etc.);
  9. encourage student applications, if appropriate, for scholarships and awards—following student inquiry;
  10. evaluate the advising system, when requested, in order to strengthen the advising process.

Students should:

  1. accept full ownership for all academic decisions -- academic advisors will assist by presenting options and identifying resources;
  2. prepare for advising sessions and bring appropriate resources or materials (i.e. pen/digital device timetable of classes, catalog, completed registration form, etc.);
  3. contact and make an appointment with an advisor when in need of assistance;
  4. follow through on actions identified during each advising session or other communication;
  5. clarify personal values, abilities, interests, and goals during their time at Messiah;
  6. become knowledgeable of and adhere to institutional policies, procedures, and requirements;
  7. review eligibility requirements for scholarships and awards and when appropriate, discuss options with advisor in a timely manner;
  8. evaluate advisors and the advising system when requested, in order to strengthen the advising process