Setting Clear Expectations with Advisees for Pre-Registration
From Karla Erickson, Sociology
(adapted from emails created by Laura Sinnett, Psychology)
This is an example of a pro-active advising strategy. These emails send a clear message about the nature of the adviser's role, the advisee's role, and advising time together. Being direct with students helps them know what the expectations are - they can rise to the occasion, rather than falling short on their responsibilities as advisees. Further, this strategy asks students to be both reflective of their goals and planful of their time with you.
SEND THE DAY PRE-REGISTRATION MATERIALS COME OUT
Dear Advisees,
The registration materials are now available in your mailboxes as well as online.
For next week, I have my regular office hours posted (10-Noon on Mon/Weds and 2-4 on Tues/Thurs) but obviously I have more times I can meet if you want to get in next week and talk before pre-registration actually begins.
When you come to talk, I expect you to have 4 top choices, and at least 2 alternatives, maybe more for the Fall, and to have reconsidered your 4-year plan in light of the choices you plan to make next year, both semesters. DO NOT WRITE YOUR COURSES ON YOUR REGISTRATION CARD. See directions below instead:
Prior to our first conversation, I want you to take some time and write one paragraph about what you hope to accomplish next semester. Then, next to each of the 6 courses you are considering, write 1-2 sentences explaining how that course will fit into that short term plan, and your long term plan for pursuing a well-rounded education and preparing for your future. Also, please write down questions you have so we can make sure you find out what you need to know as well as hearing what I know or might advise.
If you have trouble deciding after our first meeting, I am fine with one preliminary meeting next week and a quick follow-up during the following week.
If you anticipate needing more than 20 minutes, you can sign up for 2 time slots.
Most importantly, if none of the time slots available work with your schedule, please send me an email with several choices about when you can meet and hopefully we can figure out an alternative time.
If you are studying in London or DC next Fall, you need to turn in a Yellow card for Fall 2008, and a Blue card for Spring 2009.
If you are traveling elsewhere in the Fall, you will need to pre-register for the Spring using the Blue registration card.
If you are off campus currently, I hope you are having a wonderful experience, and look forward to seeing you in the Fall, let me know if I can answer any questions by email.
Looking forward to meeting with all of you in the next couple weeks. Enjoy your weekend and the fabulous weather.
Best,
T. Professor
SEND THE FRIDAY BEFORE THE FIRST WEEK OF PRE- REGISTRATION
Dear Advisees,
Pre-registration begins on Monday. If you have not already met with me, please sign up for a time slot for next week. I have posted a schedule with over 40 time slots available, so I hope you can find a time (or two) that work with your schedule. I will offer fewer time slots next week, so I hope you will plan to come in this week if at all possible.
When you come to talk, I expect you to have 4 top choices, and at least 2 alternatives, maybe more for the Fall, and to have reconsidered your 4-year plan in light of the choices you plan to make next year, both semesters. DO NOT WRITE YOUR COURSES ON YOUR REGISTRATION CARD. See directions below instead.
Prior to our first conversation, I want you to take some time and write one paragraph about what you hope to accomplish next semester. Then, next to each of the 6 courses you are considering, write 1-2 sentences explaining how that course will fit into that short term plan, and your long term plan for pursuing a well-rounded education and preparing for your future. Also, please write down questions you have so we can make sure you find out what you need to know as well as hearing what I know or might advise.
If you have trouble deciding after our first meeting, I am fine with one preliminary meeting next week and a quick follow-up during the following week.
If you anticipate needing more than 20 minutes, you can sign up for 2 time slots.
Most importantly, if none of the time slots available work with your schedule, please send me an email with several choices about when you can meet and hopefully we can figure out an alternative time.
See you soon,
T. Professor
SEND THE WEDNESDAY OF THE FIRST WEEK OF REGISTRATION
Dear Advisees,
Most of you have met with me to discuss your plans for next semester. Thank you for your advanced planning and preparation. If you have not met with me yet, please sign up for an appointment as soon as possible.
Thanks,
T. Professor
SEND THE FRIDAY BEFORE THE LAST WEEK OF PRE- REGISTRATION
Dear XX and XX,
Please sign up for a time to come see me next week. I just posted the schedule. You will need to meet with me AT LEAST two days before the last day of pre-registration - so that means that you will need to find time to meet with me on Monday or Tuesday of this week. If none of the times I have posted for those two days work for you, let me know by email, and we'll sort out something else.
Best,
T. Professor
