Current+issues+in+academic+adivising?+Page+2

//In Student Services, there will always be issues that will arise as each student is unique in that no situation will be an exact duplicate of another. Hence, in dealing with student issues, it is important to assess each situation separately (because what works for one situation may not for another). In assessing the situation, assess each student’s individual need(s) and immediately identify appropriate services. Once the appropriate services are identified, devise a plan of action with the student (individually or collectively), discuss the plan of action, and follow up. Follow up is a critical component in student services as it is a strong indicator to students that the SSP is a student focused personnel who strives to foster the academic, professional, and personal growth of all students.//
 * Are there any current issues in academic advising, if so what would we like to improve and how can we go on by addressing them?**

//As a Student Services Professional, it is important to understand Student Affairs in relation to Academic Affairs as both divisions play a role in shaping the student from entrance to graduation. In bridging the two, one can more effectively advise students and direct them in the right direction. In doing so, as SSP, one needs to understand the importance of customer service, because as SSP, you may hear the same questions asked fifty times in a given day, but for that one student, that is the first time he/she has asked that question. Hence, as the advisor, you need to treat it like it was your first time hearing that question so that you can provide the student with the best service—yielding a content student.// //Additionally, it is important to establish a network of individuals for whom you can go to in the event that you need assistance. This network should include personnel from various departments such as: Admissions, Financial Aid, Health and Counseling, Colleges, Career Services, Tutorial Services, Services to Students with disabilities, Library, Student Life, Campus Safety/Security, etc. An important note is to not limit this network to personnel from the host campus only. By establishing a network outside of the host campus, will enable a successful SSP to gain more knowledge in student services to enhance one’s professional growth as well as the growth of our students.//
 * What useful resources would we recommend for in hopes to better serve our students?**

//Present or future, it is important to look at sustainability issues in relation to student services. First and foremost, are the academic and social systems on and off campus promoting a healthy and productive life for students? Evaluate how student services have evolved over the years:// //1.// //What factors impact the productivity of the academic and social aspect of your campus?// //2.// //Has academic and social services improved, if so how has it improved?// //3.// //Has academic and social services not improved, so how and what changes need to be made?// //Evaluation serves as tool that will help the campus in restructuring its image to meet the needs of students (traditional and nontraditional alike) and faculty and staff.
 * How are we addressing sustainability issues?**

We (Faculty & Staff) also try to use the computer as much as possible and limit printing of paper(s), recycling in our offices is essential and encourage our students to take sustainability classes when applicable to their area of interest.

(H. Xiong, personal communication, November 4, 2009)

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