SMCCME

Advising Overview

1. Students who are new to SMCC

   New students are strongly encouraged to attend an Advising Session that incorporates the basics of program requirements, pre-requisites, college policies, procedures and on-line registration. At this session each student will register on-line for their first semester classes with the guidance of Enrollment Services Advisors. Upon initial enrollment into classes, students are assigned permanent faculty advisors. Students may also utilize the online version of the advising session. 
   
   Professional Advisors present at New Student Advising Sessions, meet with students who are new to SMCC, undecided students, students in General Studies, prospective students, students who have questions about transferring IN to SMCC, and students who have further questions after meeting with their faculty advisor. Advisors are located in Enrollment Services in the Campus Center. Advisors also serve as a referral for college resources.

2. Students who are already enrolled at SMCC

   Students at Southern Maine Community College are advised through their academic department. All students are strongly encouraged to meet with their Faculty Advisor prior to registration each semester. Advisors primary role is to guide the student toward the accomplishment of her/his academic goal. Advising is a shared process, the more clearly a student can articulate respective needs and goals, the more productive the advisor/advisee relationship will be. Advisors also serve as a referral for college resources.

How Do I Find Out who My Advisor is?

Go to Current Students and log in. Your advisor is listed on your schedule. Advisors are assigned after you register for your courses the first time. Your advisor will be a faculty member in your department or if you are a General Studies Major you will have an advisor in Enrollment Services until you change majors.

Can I Change My Advisor?

Yes.  You can change your advisor by filing out the Change of Advisor Request Form [Microsoft Word file]. Students may also attain a form in the Enrollment Services office. Completed forms must be submitted to Enrollment Services.

What is My Role (the Student's Role) in Advising?

• Share information with their advisors regarding interests, goals, educational, and career plans.
• Become familiar with policies, deadlines, degree requirements and college resources found in the Student Handbook and on-line College Catalog. These are vital sources of important information.
• As needs arise be willing to contact appropriate student support services available on campus.
• At all times know your scholastic standing and needs in order to fulfill college degree requirements.
• Be prepared for meetings with your advisor, particularly when registering for next semester’s classes.
• Keep all records! Students should keep copies of all correspondence from the college, and from meetings with their advisor.
• Inform Enrollment Services of any address and telephone number changes by completing a Change of Address Form [Microsoft Word file]. Students may also attain a form in the Enrollment Services office. Completed forms must be submitted to the Enrollment Services Office.
• Be an active and informed participant in the advising session.
• Accept final responsibility for all decisions.