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Major Advising
When you choose a major sophomore year, you will be assigned a faculty advisor in your academic discipline. This page offers information and recommendations to help you make the most of the faculty advising program.

How to Find Your Faculty Advisor

Your faculty advisor assignment can be found in your NOVASIS account. You may access this information by following these steps:

1. Go to the NOVASIS site.
2. Click on “Enter Secure Area.” Log in by scrolling down the screen and entering your student ID# and password.
3. After you’ve logged in, click on “Student & Financial Aid,” then scroll down and click on “Registration” to proceed.
4. Scroll down to “View Your Advisor” and click on it. A screen will pop up listing your faculty advisor(s).

Please direct questions or concerns about faculty advisor assignments to the academic area of your major(s).

When to Meet with Your Faculty Advisor

Prior to the university’s registration period each semester, you should meet with faculty advisor to discuss course scheduling. These meetings are critical for the communication and planning of your efficient and successful progress through the degree program.

You are responsible for meeting with your faculty advisor to plan your program of study, and for initiating other contact as needed. VSB encourages you to develop a relationship with your advisor and to make a point of connecting with him/her several times throughout the semester.
 

Please be aware that each faculty advisor has different availability. Contact faculty advisor via email, phone, or by visiting the appropriate academic area office to learn of his/her scheduled office hours.

How to Make the Most of Faculty Advising

Follow the guidelines below to maximize the benefits of the student/advisor relationship.

• Determine the preferred method(s) of communicating with your faculty advisor—by phone, email, or in person.
• Make an appointment with your faculty advisor in advance and be prompt for any phone or in-person appointments.
• Review your WebCAPP/Novasis records prior to your meeting.
• Prepare questions that you would like to ask your faculty advisor (see below for suggestions).
• Solicit your advisor’s input regarding your choice of major, career interests, and academic plans.
• Express your appreciation by following up on your appointment with a thank-you note, email, or voicemail.
 

Below are examples of some questions to give you an idea of appropriate issues to discuss with your faculty advisor. You are encouraged to adjust these examples to fit your situation and/or to develop questions of your own.

Questions to Ask Your Faculty Advisor
• I have an interest in pursuing a career in XXX. Which courses would prepare me well for entering that field?
• What are your insights about career paths or opportunities within your field(s)?
• What advice would you give someone interested in your major/field?
• Can you refer me to another faculty member who specializes in XXX field?
• Based on my career interests, what skills and competencies should I focus on developing in and out of the classroom?
• Based on my career interests, what kind of internships would you suggest that I investigate? Are there any other hands-on opportunities and/or study abroad programs that you would recommend?
• When should I plan to check in with you again?
Prior to the university’s registration period each semester, you should meet with your faculty advisor to discuss course scheduling.

Contact your faculty advisor via email, phone, or by visiting the appropriate academic area office to learn of his/her scheduled office hours.

Academic Advising Students Expectation

  • When necessary, schedule an appointment or make contact with an advisor. If necessary, cancel and reschedule in a timely manner.

  • Be prepared for each appointment with knowledge of courses to take, questions to ask and/or topics to discuss. Bring Web CAPP to meetings with advisor.

  • Keep a personal record of progress toward degree requirements. Use Web CAPP frequently to track progress.

  • Become knowledgeable about programs, degree requirements, polices, and procedures.

  • Contact your advisor and ask questions if uncertain or need clarification.

  • Become knowledgeable about resources and services available on campus.

  • Accept responsibility for your decisions and your actions (or inactions) that affect your educational goals and progress.