Meet Jazlyn Purnell! Jazlyn is a Junior Biology Pre-pharmacy major from Fayetteville, Arkansas. Along with being Parent Ambassador, Jazlyn is involved with the Volunteer Action Center Literacy Program and the U of A Inspirational Chorale. Jazlyn’s favorite Razorback tradition is saying the chants and cheers at the football games.
As the start of the semester arrives, your student will have a variety of things on their minds. Let me inform you, however, the most prominent thought will be: “What classes do I need to take?!” There are so many to choose from that it can be extremely overwhelming. Your student will most likely come to you for advice about which classes they should take, and let me tell you from experience, the best advice you can give them is to talk to their academic advisor.
Academic Advising is one of the most important resources that students at the University of Arkansas have access to. The advisors are there to help your student by answering questions about their degree, helping them understand the academic policies and procedures, and assisting them with their class selection every semester. Advisors are the best resource to help your student easily navigate their educational career.
The University of Arkansas has eight different academic advising programs on campus. As a parent you might be wondering, “Which advising program does my child need to go to?” It all depends on your student’s major and the college they are placed in. The list of colleges at the U of A are as follows: Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences; Fay Jones School of Architecture; J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences; Sam M. Walton College of Business; College of Education and Health Professions; College of Engineering; School of Law; and Graduate School. Each college has their own academic advising center which makes it easier and more efficient for your student because the advisors are prepared to answer any and all questions regarding that particular college.
The first experience your incoming student will have with academic advising will be at their New Student Orientation. This is where they will choose their classes for the beginning of the fall semester, but do not be alarmed because they will not be alone. Many advisors will be there to assist them in navigating UAConnect (the online program used to select classes) answering questions, and selecting the right classes for them.
The best way for your student to get good use out of their academic advising center is to visit with them at least once a semester, especially when it comes close to time to start picking out classes for the following semester. As a student, I have found that it is always better to plan ahead for each semester, and as a parent I am sure you all would agree. Encourage your student to meet with their academic advisors because they are professionals at planning ahead and will keep your student on track for a successful and educational experience.