Academic Advising

Academic advising is a comprehensive program facilitated by counselors, teaching faculty, and student services personnel who share responsibility with advisees for student success. The advising relationship is a continuous developmental process involving open communication in an atmosphere of mutual respect and honesty. It assists students with the transition to college and the evaluation and attainment of their academic, career, and personal goals. By their participation in a range of advising activities, students gain an understanding of campus and College resources and develop the skills to make informed, independent decisions.

Beginning in the 2014 Fall Semester, all first-time-to-college students ages 17-24 are required to meet with their advisor before registration. Other new students should also work with a counselor or academic advisor to select a program to meet their educational objectives. Once the student has chosen a major, he/she will then be referred to an academic advisor or counselor who will assist in planning the rest of the student’s program for all subsequent terms.

Students should meet with their advisor to discuss progress toward graduation near the midpoint of their program. All students are encouraged to seek information and assistance from academic advisors in career planning in addition to curriculum planning. Even students not enrolled in a specific curricular major may seek assistance from academic advisors and counselors to help select courses during enrollment.

GPS for Success

GPS for Success is a comprehensive advising experience specifically for recent high school graduates who have never been to college. The program aims to help students foster connections with professional advisors and faculty, while teaching students how to plan and evaluate their academic performance.

Academic Planning

Students should use the online Advisement Report to monitor their progress toward their degree or certificate by logging onto NOVAConnect. From the My NOVA tab on the College’s home page, students can enter the VCCS SIS: Student Information System and click on “Self Service.” After clicking on the “Student Center,” the “My Academics” selection offers students a menu option to view their “Advisement Report.”