Disability Support Services

Transfer Center

Faculty Resources

What We Do

The Online Advisement Center is a college community resource intended to provide accurate information essential for student success to parents, faculty, and students.

Academic advisors provide assistance to students in the following areas:

1. clarifying and discussing the student's educational goals;
2. selecting courses during advisement/registration periods;
3. providing guidance on transferring to another school;
4. obtaining accurate information about academic deadlines and rules

Who Are the Advisors?

Academic advisors are members of the faculty, and come from both the full-time and part-time faculty ranks.  Part-time or adjunct, faculty are typically hired to assist students needing advisement during the summer.  However, all program placed students are assigned a full-time faculty member as their permanent advisor.

How to Prepare for Your First Visit

All new students must take placement tests for Math, English and Reading in the Testing Center, 434-797-8460 (see Admissions), prior to their first advisement visit.  Study your degree requirements in the General Catalog, become familiar with the class schedule and, if possible, make a list of courses you wish to take.  The advisor will assist you in the formation of your educational plan. 

Students should sign up for advisement appointments after being program placed by a college counselor.  Many advisors request that students schedule appointments at least 24 hours in advance so that they have time to review your folder.  Appointment schedules are posted on faculty office doors during registration periods each semester.

Why Advisement is Important

If you want to reach your goal you need a plan.  Advisors help you create a plan and stay on track to graduation. They can also refer you to campus resources that will support you in pursuit of your goals.   You should schedule a visit with an advisor every semester.

Student Responsibilities in Advising

• Ask questions; learn all you can about your college experience
• Understand the academic requirements in the General Catalog for your program of study
• Be prepared for your advisement session
• Consult with your advisor on course selection
• Keep track of your degree progress on a program worksheet and bring this to your session
• Keep records of your academic plan and your progress
• Know deadlines for graduation application and university transfer
• Register early for the best course selection