Advisor & Advisee Expectations

Advisors help students identify and develop their personal strengths
that lead to things like achieving goals, communicating well,
taking responsibility for actions, and earning a degree from the University. Students can also view these expectations on advising.umn.edu.

Students can expect their advisor to:

  • Welcome each student as an individual and respect differences in experiences, culture, strengths, challenges, values, and educational and life goals.
  • Provide a high-trust environment in which to share questions, aspirations, concerns, and interests. 
  • Be a responsive listener and advocate while supporting the development of students' self-advocacy, decision making, accountability, and responsibility.
  • Help students explore their interests, goals, and talents and relate them to academic majors.
  • Be accessible and tell students their preferred method of contact (e.g. e-mail, phone, etc.). 
  • Be knowledgeable about programs, responsibilities, and standards to help guide students’ progress toward degree.  
  • Maintain and help students learn policies and procedures necessary to navigate the University.
  • Refer students to resources and support systems across campus.
  • Maintain confidentiality and understand the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
  • Discuss academic performance and implications.

Advisors can expect their students to:

  • Take active responsibility for decisions they make or actions they take to facilitate successful progression towards educational and career goals. 
  • Participate fully in the advising experience by sharing academic, personal, and career values and goals with their advisor.
  • Make regular contact with their advisor and don't wait until the last minute to schedule their appointments.
  • Come prepared for their appointment with course ideas, discussion items, etc. Ask questions if they do not understand an issue or have a specific concern.
  • Ask instructors and advisors for help when they need it: Seek help before a situation becomes a crisis.
  • Follow through on suggestions and referrals offered by their advisor to further their academic, career, and personal goals.
  • Inform their advisor of any academic difficulties or program or career changes.
  • Become knowledgeable about academic requirements, university policies and procedures, and key deadlines and dates.
  • Familiarize themselves with and utilize University resources and opportunities.
  • Frequently check for emails sent to their U of M email account.