Page 263 - Keys to College Success

Email. Instructors’ email addresses are generally posted
on the first day of class and on your syllabus. Use email
to clarify assignments and assignment deadlines, to ask
questions about lectures or readings, and to clarify what
will be covered on a test.

Voicemail. If something comes up at the last minute,
leave a short and specific message on your instructor’s
voice mail. Do not call instructors at home unless they
give you permission to do so.
Keep in mind that adjunct faculty (temporary or
part-time instructors) may not have offices or voicemail
connected with the school. If you need to meet with an
adjunct instructor, get in touch using the contact infor-
mation from your syllabus, and the instructor will
arrange a specific meeting location.

Academic Advising

Most colleges have an advising office or center that oversees academic advising. Academic
advisors help students navigate coursework, registration, majors, and more. At some
schools, every student is assigned an advisor; at others, students select their advisors. Either
way, you will have an advisor who serves as your personal connection with the college.
Your advisor will help you select and register for courses every term, plan your
overall academic program, and understand college regulations, including graduation
requirements. You may be required to meet with your advisor once each term. How-
ever, once may not be enough, and many advisors report that their services are under-
used for most of the term until registration and final grade time roll around.
As with any relationship, the more time and effort you risk, the more rewarding the
connection will be. Don’t hesitate to schedule additional meetings with your advisor beyond
the minimum requirements. If your advisor teaches one or more courses, consider adding
one to your schedule so that you can experience your advisor in a classroom setting.

Academic Centers and Tutoring

Tutors can give you valuable and detailed help on specific academic subjects. Most
campuses have private tutoring available, and many schools offer free peer tutoring. If
you feel you could benefit from one-on-one support, ask an instructor or academic
advisor to recommend a tutor.
If your school has one or more academic centers, you may be able to find a tutor
there. Academic centers, including reading, writing, math, and study-skills centers, help
students improve skills at all levels. Another type of academic center is linked with a
specific department or academic focus, such as technology or environmental studies.
Such centers have extensive programs and support services that help students majoring
in that area connect with internships, investigate graduate programs, collaborate on
research projects, and more.

Need-Specific Offices

Colleges serve students with a staggering range of needs, and have developed specific offices
and programs to address them. What your school offers depends on the characteristics of
the student body. For example, a school with commuter students will have a transportation
9 office, and a diverse student body may be served by an office of diversity or multicultural
CHAPTER 226 offerings. Key 9.1 has details about some general offices found at almost any school.
affairs. Think about who you are and what you need, and explore your school’s specific