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Advising Resources for Students & Faculty

Venango Campus Transition

Cultural and economic growth in Venango County will get a boost under a plan developed by the Oil Region Alliance of Business, Industry and Tourism and Pennsylvania Western University Clarion for the university’s Venango property.

Starting in fall 2024, pending approval by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the Associate of Science in Nursing will relocate to the Clarion campus. 

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academic advising = success

Why is Academic Advising so important?

Academic Advising at the Venango Campus

We subscribe to the National Academic Advising Associations definition of advising, which states that academic advising is an educational process that facilitates students' understanding of the meaning and purpose of higher education. It fosters intellectual and personal development toward academic success and lifelong learning  (NACADA, 2004).

Faculty advisor's at PennWest Clarion — Venango are committed to helping you be successful students, employees, and citizens.

The Advising Process:

We believe that a great partnership can be formed between advisors and students when each understands what is expected of them. Below are the advising expectations for both students and advisors. You and your advisor may discuss additional expectations during your meetings.

Your advisor expects you to:

• Schedule regular appointments and/or contacts during each semester
• Come to appointments prepared with questions and/or topics to discuss
• Be open to exploring opportunities that will help clarify interests, strengths and abilities
• Research college programs, policies, procedures, and opportunities as appropriate
• Keep a record of your academic progress and goals
• Inform the advisor of any academic difficulties, or program or career changes
• Seek help before a situation becomes a crisis
• Accept responsibility for your decisions and actions
• Be courteous and plan ahead (schedule appointments early and cancel or reschedule if necessary)

You can expect your Advisor to:

• Understand your degree requirements and effectively communicate them
• Provide a safe space in which to share your thoughts, aspirations, concerns and interests
• Provide resources and referrals
• Listen carefully to your questions, concerns, and confusions
• Maintain confidentiality
• Encourage and support you as you gain the skills and knowledge necessary for success
• Assist you in making course and major decision

Your Academic Advisor

Every student is assigned an academic advisor who is a faculty member in the department of his or her major. Undecided students are assigned to a faculty advisor through the University Advising Services Center until they declare a major. It is important to know what an advisor is and how an advisor may be of assistance to you. Here are some questions and answers that will help you to make the most out of your relationship with your academic advisor.

MyClarion Advisor GraphicHow do I know who my advisor is?

If you are unsure of who your academic advisor is, check your MyClarion Student Portal.

When should I see my academic advisor?

Take the initiative to get to know your advisor within the first three weeks of the semester. Continue to meet with your advisor on a regular basis throughout the semester to discuss your academic progress and educational planning. Meet with your advisor at least once each and every semester, from your first year through graduation, to check your progress and make sure you are on track.

How do I make an appointment to see my advisor?

Different advisors may prefer different means of communication, but here are the best ways to make contact with your advisor. Keep in mind that meeting in person is the best way to develop a more personalized relationship with your advisor.

• Stop by during your advisors' scheduled office hours. These are usually posted on his or her office door.
• Telephone your advisor's office or e-mail your advisor and make an appointment.

How should I prepare for my meeting with my advisor?

  • Know the name, location, telephone number and email address of your advisor.
  • Think about your interests and the possible majors and minors you may want to explore if you are undecided.
  • Write down questions or topics you would like to discuss with your advisor and take them to your meeting.
  • Complete any forms in advance.
  • Review a recent copy of your degree audit from MyClarion, we will discuss it at your appointment.
  • Become familiar with the requirements for your major and minor programs if you have already selected them.
  • Become familiar with the university's resources that can help you to achieve your goals.
  • Become familiar with the university policies, procedures, and requirements.
  • Be on time for scheduled meetings.
  • Take a pen and paper to your meetings.
  • Make a list of courses that interest you if you are scheduling.

Keep a copy of all advisement documents (Undergraduate Catalog, ACES electronic guide, degree audit, grade reports, semester schedules, advisor letters, e-mails, etc.).

To assist with your Academic Advising experience, faculty and students may utilize some of the following tools:

Advising Agreement
Questions to review in an advising session

For Advisors:graduates

Academic Programs & Requirements

To find a list of General Education Requirements, click here

For course that fulfill General Education Flags, Click here:

Venango Campus Academic Resource Center

Disability Support Services for Students at Venango

Venango Campus Counseling Center

For more information and resources on academic advising

More resources for promoting student success:

Moving the Needle for First-Gen College Students: Advising from College Access to Success

Academic Advising and Social Justice: Privilege, Diversity, and Student Success

First Generation - 1 Hour Version

What is Appreciative Advising?

 

 

Last Updated 1/22/24