Getting Started with Advising
As a UConn student, building a successful relationship with your academic advisor is key in maximizing your university experience and achieving your academic goals. This page offers essential information on the advisor-advisee relationship, how to contact your advisor and schedule an appointment, and how to prepare for a successful advising meeting.
How do I schedule an appointment with my advisor?
- Most advisors prefer that students schedule their in-person or virtual appointments via Nexus, while some advisors prefer that students schedule appointments via email.
- Log into Nexus to see if your advisor posts appointment availability online.
- If appointment availability is not listed in Nexus, visit your advisor’s department website to find out how your advisor schedules appointments or what his/her office hours are. Typically, this information is found under such headings as “Contact Us,” “Faculty” or similar.
- If you cannot find the information on the website, e-mail your advisor or visit their academic department’s office and ask.
What should I discuss with my advisor?
Before you meet with your advisor, take some time to prepare for your appointment so that you can make the most of your time together. Make a list of topics and questions to ask your advisor.
These might include:
- UConn’s Common Curriculum
- Degree requirements, including your Advisement Report
- Course Planning and Registration, including potential courses you may take in the upcoming semester
- Academic Resources and Support
- Student Support Resources
- Academic Challenges you are experiencing
- Co-curricular educational opportunities and involvement (education abroad, research, internships, etc.)
- Career and Graduate School Plans
No single advisor has expertise in all the areas you may wish to explore. Learn more about the advisor/advisee relationship and advisor/advisee responsibilities.
Who else can answer my academic questions?
If your advisor is unsure about specific requirements or regulations, they will likely direct you to your Advising Center Contacts. These offices are also able to answer questions about such matters as substitutions, excess credit, late drops, and academic notice and dismissal policies and support. Students should consult with a wide range of faculty, staff, and campus resources who may be able to advise them on the many opportunities available, such as education abroad, research, internships, careers, and graduate school.
Advisor & Advisee Responsibilities
Advising is an integral part of the University’s educational mission. A successful and productive advising relationship involves collaboration between the student and the advisor or mentor.