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You are exploring: VU > Business > Undergraduate Programs > The Clay Center at VSB > Academic Advising and Support  Print This Page
Undeclared Student Advising
At VSB, a team of Clay Center Advisors and VSB Peer Counselors advise freshmen who have not yet declared a major. This page offers information and recommendations to help you make the most of these advising resources.

How to Make the Most of Advising Sessions

You are responsible for meeting with your advisor and peer counselor to plan your program of study, and for initiating other contact with your advisor or counselor as needed. The Clay Center encourages you to develop relationships with your advisor and counselor, and to make a point of connecting with them several times throughout the semester.

Follow the guidelines below to maximize the benefits you receive from your advising sessions.

• Determine the preferred method(s) of communicating with your advisor and your counselor—by phone, email, or in person.
• Make appointments with your advisor or counselor in advance and be prompt for any phone or in-person appointments.
• Review your WebCAPP/Novasis records prior to your meetings.
• Prepare questions that you would like to ask your advisor or counselor (see below for suggestions).
• Solicit your advisor and counselor’s input regarding your choice of major, career interests, and academic plans.
• Express your appreciation by following up on your appointments 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 advisor and counselor. You are encouraged to adjust these examples to fit your situation and/or to develop questions of your own.

Good Questions to Ask Your Clay Center Advisor
• How many credits should I be taking this semester?
• What other services/resources/people are available to help me choose major(s)/minor(s)?
• Can you suggest strategies for course planning/scheduling?
• 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 and opportunities?
• Based on my career interests, what skills and competencies should I focus on developing in and out of the classroom?
• 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?

 Good Questions to Ask Your Peer Counselor
• What is your major? How did you decide on that major?
• Please tell me about the classes that you’ve taken in your major so far.
• I have an interest in XXX; can you suggest VSB and/or university organizations and activities that would help me to develop those interests?
• Where can I find tutoring or other assistance if I need help with my coursework?
• My learning style is best-suited to XXX type of teaching; can you recommend a professor for XXX course that would match well with my style?
• When should I plan to check in with you again?

Academic Advising Students Expectations

  • 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.