Academic Advising

Mission

The mission of Undergraduate Studies Academic Advising is to create a welcoming environment where students engage in the advising process with their assigned academic advisor. Advisor and student partner together to assist the student in setting and achieving their intellectual and personal goals. The Undergraduate Studies Advising team strives to provide an inclusive environment whereby all students are enabled to make informed decisions regarding educational and career plans that are consistent with their values, interests, and abilities. Advisors provide students with tools and resources that empower them in becoming lifelong learners.

Advising Philosophy

The Undergraduate Studies Advising team strives to guide students towards their academic goals by providing information, references, and advice. Academic advisors are a resource to enable students to find success with the student having the ultimate responsibility for making the best academic decisions for their path forward.

Goals of Advising

The Undergraduate Studies Academic Advising team respects and supports the institution's vision, mission, and goals, recognizing the shared responsibility of the university community to accomplish these goals.

1. Ensure that students have access to knowledgeable and informed advisors in a supportive and open environment with care and respect.
2. Mentor students as they explore and clarify their educational, career, and life goals.
3. Develop educational and career plans consistent with student values, interests, and abilities.
4. Provide accurate information about educational opportunities, requirements, policies, and procedures.
5. Educate students on appropriate support services to meet individual needs.
6. Educate students on transformational learning opportunities such as internships, research, and study abroad.

Advisor Responsibilities

To support the core values of the UNF advising program, advisors will:

• Participate in ongoing professional development and advising education.
• Access technology that supports and enhances their ability to work with students.
• Be attentive and respectful in their interactions with students.
• Promote intentional programs for new students that introduce them to opportunities for intellectual and personal growth.
• Foster and support relationships
• Continually support students in their pursuit of meaningful university experiences and progress toward achievement of individual educational goals.
• Establish a positive working relationship with students through using effective communication styles.
• Assist students in making connections between their interests and abilities and available educational programs.
• Promote connections between students and faculty.
• Promote an intentional decision-making process and demonstrate how students can effectively use it.
• Understand, adhere to, and effectively communicate their understanding of university requirements, policies, and procedures.
• Demonstrate knowledge of university resources and make appropriate referrals.
• Demonstrate knowledge of student development theory as it applies to academic advising and student success.
• Develop and maintain relationships with relevant campus offices which support student success.
• Demonstrate knowledge of high impact practices and advise students of these opportunities on and off campus.
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold FERPA Regulations.

Advisee Responsibilities

*Note: Students newly admitted to UNF or their academic college and major must meet with their academic advisor within the first semester.

To achieve your ultimate academic goal, you will...

• Prepare to visit your advisor by scheduling appointments and/or coming to walk-in advising early in the semester.
• Arrive early to your appointment and be prepared with all required materials.
• Be knowledgeable of your academic progress and status including grades, GPA, academic history, academic schedule and standing.
• Clarify personal values and goals and provide the advisor with accurate information regarding your interests and abilities.
• Learn and comprehend campus policies, procedures, and requirements for graduation.
• Check your University of North Florida e-mail daily and reply or respond as required.
• Conduct yourself in a manner that is professional and respectful to others.