Roles of Students and Academic Advisers
Advising is a partnership between students and their advisers. With that in mind, here are the expectations of both parties.
Advisers are available to help students meet their educational goals and navigate their college experience. It is because of this broad responsibility that the adviser/student relationship plays an important role in student success. Students are welcomed and encouraged to meet with their advisers to share stories, gain advice, and map their journey to meeting their educational goals.
Here's a list of practical expectations for both students and their advisers.
Student’s Responsibilities:
- Read all e-mails, the official means of communication at RTC, on your RTC student email account.
- Be aware of important dates and deadlines, published in the academic calendar.
- Follow through on actions identified during each advising session.
- Learn how to register for classes online and use Student Online Services
- Know who your adviser is. If you are not sure, check the Student Success Center link.
- Clarify your personal values, interests, and goals.
- Schedule your advising appointment in advance to ensure you can visit with your adviser when you need to.
- Come prepared for your appointment. Review the quarterly class schedule and college catalog, and bring appropriate resources or materials (i.e. transcripts, previous advising notes, etc.) when meeting with your adviser.
- Ask clarifying questions to get the information needed to accomplish goals
- Become knowledgeable of, and adhere to, institutional policies, procedures, and requirements.
- Accept final responsibility for all decisions.
Academic Adviser’s Responsibilities:
- Assist you to define and develop an individualized educational plan and support in the selection of appropriate coursework.
- Guide you in determining your progress toward your educational goals.
- Help you explore your interests and goals, and relate them to the areas of study and program offerings available.
- Maintain confidentiality and understand the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
- Refer you to services and supports available on campus to promote your academic success. (Behavioral Health, Career Services, Tutoring, etc.)
- Understand RTC policies, processes, and program requirements, and communicate them to you.
- Respond in a timely manner during regular business hours.
As a result of academic advising, students will be able to:
- Apply information regarding RTC program requirements, policies, regulations, and procedures to make informed educational decisions.
- Identify a program of study that aligns with their interests, values, strengths, career and educational goals.
- Identify degree and/or certificate requirements and develop an educational plan to meet the requirements.
- Recognize the value of developing a career pathway and having an action plan for both short-term and long-term goals.
- Seek out and use campus resources to support their success.
- Understand that participating in co-curricular and educational opportunities will help advance their educational goals.