Empowering Students

Academic advising at Truman is a cooperative process that assists students in developing an educational plan consistent with their life goals and with the liberal arts and sciences mission of the University. Advising is a shared responsibility between students and advisors. Our goal is to empower students with the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to actively and effectively pursue their education and reach their goals.

How do advisors help students learn how to make good decisions?

How do advisors get students invested in themselves?

• Advisors will help students understand that the Liberal Studies Program is an education not a checklist.
• Advisors will plan the initial one-on-one meeting as student-centered to discover students' concerns and needs.
• Advisors will treat students with respect and show enthusiasm for students’ interests and goals.
• Advisors will listen and allow students to lead and be active.
• Advisors will ask questions that encourage reflection.
• Advisors will familiarize students with campus terminology and jargon.
• Advisors will encourage students to seek-out multiple resources, opinions, individuals so they can make informed choices.
• Advisors will model the process of making decisions.
• Advisors will encourage students to develop relationships with faculty.
• Advisors will help students to become aware of their own behaviors and what motivates them.