USING YOUR ADVISOR

Whether you are involved in a social or special interest group, Greek organization, a cultural group, or an educational honorary, a strong student/advisor relationship can help the organization succeed. Remember that, by working together, the advisor and student form a sharing relationship through which all of the College benefits.

ROLE OF THE ADVISOR:

• One rule applies to all advisors- the exact role of the advisor should be decided jointly by the advisor and the student group.
• A balance between support and instruction should be found - the advisor is there to help you, not tell you what to do.
• The advisor should not take a leadership role for the group. For the first few meetings, the advisor can be a facilitator, an organizer and a coordinator, but should become a support and resource person once the new leaders are in place and comfortable with the position.

HOW THE ADVISOR CAN HELP THE GROUP:

• By getting to know the students belonging to the organization
• By encouraging the group to keep records of all activities and encouraging the evaluation of the programs
• By being willing to make a phone call on behalf of the organization if doing so will remove obstacles or stress
• By asking that the group recruit and accept new members
• By fostering a sense of responsibility among group members

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR ADVISOR:

• Give your advisor the chance to get to know the individuals in the organization
• Invite the advisor to all group meetings and programs and make it clear that you want him/her to be there
• Keep your advisor up to date on events, programs, and meetings so that everyone is kept on the same page
• Ask your advisor for assistance if you are having personality conflicts or troubles within the organization
• Let your advisor help you- experience with the school can go a long way to solving logistical and procedural problems
• Ask your advisor to aid you in evaluating programs and events
• Make sure your advisor is informed as to the goals and objectives of the organization
• Ask lots of questions if you don’t understand something or need further information

MISCELLANEOUS:

• Creating a good relationship with your advisor may help provide continuity for the group
• During problem solving, the advisor is there to facilitate, not to fix things
• Your advisor has knowledge and information that can be useful to you - take advantage of it
• Don't abuse your advisor by asking him/her to do things that group members are capable of doing
• Open and frequent communication is crucial - stop by the office, drop a note in the mailbox, make a quick phone call, or send e-mail so that everyone can keep in touch

Last Updated: 2/00 AJD/JWMH