Welcome to the Academic Connection with the Academic Advising Center Today’s Goals Student Advising Meeting How We Support Student’s Major Exploration • • NIU Academic Colleges College of Business College of Education College of Engineering and Engineering Technology College of Visual and Performing Arts College of Liberal Arts and Sciences College of Health and Human Sciences How is the AAC different from the Academic Colleges? University Graduation Requirements New PLUS General Education Curriculum Important Note for Transfer Students AAC Advising Focus Areas by Semester SEMESTER 1: Complete 15 Total Hours Transition to Campus Academic Success SEMESTER 2: Complete 30 Total Hours Academic Success Major Exploration SEMESTER 3: Complete 45 Total Hours Major Exploration Career Exploration SEMESTER 4: Complete 60 Total Hours Career Exploration Major Declaration AAC Objectives for First Year Students AAC Exploratory Tracks Administration and Management Exploratory Track Behavioral and Social Sciences Exploratory Track • Engineering, Technology, and Physical Sciences Exploratory Track • • Health and Life Sciences Exploratory Track • Humanities and Fine Arts Exploratory Track • The Advising Partnership ACADEMIC ADVISOR STUDENT PARENT Monitor student progress and guide the student toward academic success. Responsible for learning and understanding. Be available to support and encourage. Help the student understand his or her responsibilities toward academic success. Monitor his or her own academic progress. Maintain regular contact. Act as a liaison between the institution and the student. Know the degree requirements of the college and major of interest. Offer advice (as needed and when appropriate). Act as an advocate for the student. Communicate with the advisor regarding issues and/or concerns about academics or student life. Encourage students to do things they can do for themselves. Refer the student to appropriate institutional resources. Attend classes. Allow students to make mistakes in this safe environment. Manage time for class preparation. Become familiar with university resources. Understand and adhere to university policies. Academic Advising Center Resources Academic Advising Center Staff – AAC Website Communication with Students During the Year Selected Support Offices Common Questions What should students do if they are ill and unable to attend class? How often should students meet with their advisor? What if we have other questions after Orientation? How soon should transfer students choose a major? How do students declare their major? Are first year students allowed to have cars? Can the Student Health Insurance fee be waived? Academic Advising Center QUESTIONS? Thank you and enjoy the rest of your day!