Pre-Advising Preparation

1. Get student’s file and review it prior to the appointment.

2. Update student’s file folder using PeopleSoft (view unofficial transcript).

3. Have assessment test scores available and an unofficial transcript. This should be kept in the student’s folder.

4. Determine if or which developmental courses are necessary

5. Note any necessary prerequisite or developmental courses.

6. Keep PeopleSoft open when advising. It is the most accurate data available and the only way to determine which classes are still open. The class schedule posted on the DCC web site is the second most accurate data available. The course registration publication is the least accurate data available (since changes are made after publication) and should only be used to schedule students as a last resort.

7. Keep a catalog at your desk when advising.

8. If a student brings their parents with them, address questions to the student.

9. Ask student if they wish to sign the waiver to give the advisor permission to discuss any student issues with the parents.

ADVISOR QUESTIONS FOR FIRST ADVISING SESSION

Do you plan on paying for classes today?
Do you receive financial aid?
What is your long term goal at DCC?
Graduate in how many years?
Transfer to what school after graduating from DCC?
Do you plan on transferring to another college before graduating from DCC?
Do you plan on only taking several classes at DCC?
Other
Do you plan to be a full time or part time student?
Are there any commitments to consider that may impact your school schedule?
Are you a recent high school graduate? (8 or 15 wk SDV 100)
Are you a Trade Act student?	(15 wk SDV 100 recommended)
Would you prefer an 8 wk or 15 wk SDV 100 course?
Do you receive financial aid?
Do you currently work?
Do you intend to continue working?
What shift do you work?
How many hours/week do you work? (Max of 20 hrs/wk recommended)
Do you prefer day classes?
Do you prefer or can you take night classes?
Do you prefer classes in Danville?
Do you prefer classes in So. Boston?
Do you prefer classes in Gretna?
Would you take a web class?
Do you understand Peoplesoft? (if not, give them a booklet)
What would you like to do with your career?

Advisement Protocol

Full time status Is 12 credits in the fall, spring or summer semesters and is considered a full load but students typically take between 12 and 18 credits of classes per semester. You must obtain permission from your dean to schedule any student for more than 18 credits.

Scheduling Procedures

1. Get student’s file and review it prior to the appointment.

2. Update student’s file folder using PeopleSoft (view unofficial transcript (i.e., PeopleSoft]).

3. Determine if or which developmental courses are necessary.

4. Note any necessary prerequisite or developmental courses.

5. Discuss current coursework (if applicable).

6. Obtain a sense of current academic progress and abilities (e.g., midterm grades, etc.)

7. Discuss career and/or academic goals/plans. Determine if they are in the correct program.

Scheduling Courses

1. Use PeopleSoft to determine what classes are available (the course catalogue is not current)

2. Schedule developmental or prerequisite classes first.

3. Schedule courses with the fewest sections second.

4. Schedule all other classes, leaving those with the most multiple sections last, as they will be the easier to schedule.

5. Complete the white copy of the “Student Planning & Advisement Form” or have the student fill out the form. Give the student the white copy and keep the yellow carbon for the student’s folder. Send the student to Admissions (Wyatt Building) or to their department secretary to register. If the student has the ability, let them register themselves. Encourage the advisee to schedule immediately (the same day) ; otherwise, you may have to reschedule the advisees’ classes again should any class close.

6. Give the student a business card in the event that there are any problems and encourage them to consult you in the event of any academic difficulties.