College Support 101: What is Academic Advising?
Starting college represents a new level of independence. You’ll have the opportunity to shape what you study, explore new interests, and set a direction for your future. But with so many decisions in front of you, it’s natural to wonder if you’re choosing the right path or spending your time in the most meaningful way.
That’s where academic advising plays a transformative role.
In this blog, you learn what academic advising is, what advisers do to support students throughout their college journey, and how to make the most of advising sessions so you can confidently build a college experience that sets you up for success beyond graduation.
What Do Academic Advisers Do?
The primary role of an adviser is to help you create a plan that aligns with your goals, pace, and interests. They walk you through all your academic options so you can make informed choices and navigate challenges before they turn into setbacks.
Alexandra Marquez, Director of Academic Achievement in the University Learning Commons at St. John’s University, describes the role of an adviser:
“Advisers are the first stop on your college journey. Students have someone who can help them address any concern or question that comes up, and if we don’t have the answer, we’ll guide them to the office that does.”
Your adviser can help you
- choose courses that align with your goals;
- track degree requirements and understand real progress;
- connect with tutoring, writing centers, and mental health support;
- strengthen study habits, time management, and learning strategies; and
- explore internships, undergraduate research, study abroad, and student leadership pathways.
Advisers also notice if you are approaching burnout—often before you even realize it. They help you stay grounded, balanced, and supported, especially during high-pressure points in the semester.
How Often Should You Meet with Your Adviser?
Aim to meet at least once per semester, but remember, it doesn’t need to be only when you’re picking classes or when something goes wrong. Your adviser is there to help you think strategically, not reactively.
“Come when you need us, but also be proactive and come before you need us,” said Ms. Marquez.
The most productive advising conversations happen when you show up ready to talk openly about what excites you, what’s stressing you, what feels unclear, and what you’re curious to explore next. You might walk in with one quick question and walk out with new ideas and opportunities you didn’t even know existed.
Every meeting is a chance to sharpen your goals, build confidence, and intentionally shape a college experience that reflects who you want to become.
Sample Four-Year Academic Advising Plan
This example shows how advising can guide you through each stage of your college journey.
Year 1: Explore
- Learn degree requirements.
- Talk through interests and possible majors.
- Build study habits, time management, and routines.
- Get introduced to tutoring, writing centers, and support resources.
Main Goal: figure out what you like and build a strong foundation.
Year 2: Decide
- Confirm or declare your major/minor.
- Start exploring internships, research, leadership, and/or study abroad.
- Choose electives that match your academic interests.
Main Goal: Choose a direction that connects to future goals.
Year 3: Gain Experience
- Take upper-level courses in your major.
- Complete internships or research projects.
- Strengthen your résumé.
Main Goal: Apply what you’re learning beyond the classroom.
Year 4: Prepare to Launch
- Make sure all major and degree requirements are on track.
- Prepare for graduate school or job applications.
- Request recommendation letters, finalize your résumé, and practice interview prep.
Main Goal: Transition confidently into your next chapter.
Academic Support Resources at St. John’s University (Video)
Explore the many academic support resources available at St. John’s—from skill-building workshops to personalized, one-on-one learning sessions—designed to help you succeed from day one and throughout your college journey.
You Don’t Have to Navigate College Alone.
College is meant to stretch you, not overwhelm you. Academic advising exists so you don’t have to make big decisions in isolation, and so you always have someone in your corner who understands both the academic system and your long-term direction.
Whether you’re planning next semester, thinking about changing your major, or trying to find balance during busy weeks, your adviser is part of your support team.
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