With advising season in full swing, I have had numerous conversations about classes for next semester, what to take and with whom, what is needed for graduation and who to talk to should a problem arise in scheduling. I have found in many of these discussions that some students here at UW-Platteville are not receiving the quality advising that I am so fortunate to have.

My adviser asks that I keep up-to-date on my degree progress report, my check sheets and that I make a mock schedule before my advising session that includes alternatives. During the session we discuss what classes he thinks are necessary for the next semester and what I should look for down the road toward graduation.

Our conversation is not limited to class scheduling however. Often we discuss my current classes, my jobs or even my future plans after graduation. I find that these sessions are beneficial to me as a student and person, and so I am shocked to hear the stories of my peers who are not receiving the same quality advising.

“My adviser just gives me my pin number. We don’t even talk about classes.”

“My adviser didn’t show up for my appointment and I register tomorrow!”

My peers are struggling in their attempts to register for the appropriate classes and I can clearly see why. Some advisers simply are not making themselves available to aid their advisees, and I am wondering why this is the case. Professors are assigned to students to advise them based on their department and major. Most professors allow advising times during their regular office hours and some even allow for extra office hours to make sure that all of their students have the option of meeting with them. So I am wondering why there are students being left behind.

Are professors not getting paid for their office hours, hours that are intended to meet with students and help them with assignments or general questions on the class or field of work? Why then are students being left to fend for themselves during advising and registration weeks possibly the most important weeks of the semester next to final exams? Are they just simply too busy with class work? Do they feel students should learn the hard way on their own?

My idea of an adviser is someone to guide and help you down the road to success, someone to advise you in what is right for you and help you get there. They are not a crutch, but simply a walking stick to help you get over the mountain.

Believe it or not, college students are here to learn. That’s why we pay the big bucks to get an education from these professors. We want to learn about our chosen field so that we may be successful in the work place. And who better to learn from than a professional? So why is it that when we turn to these professionals for help to become the next generation of workers, we find that they seem apathetic toward our future, a future that will affect everyone, not just our generation?

This advising season, I encourage my peers who feel like they are not getting the advising they deserve to push for it. Call your adviser, e-mail them and show up at their office on time, should you be allowed an appointment. Make sure you push for answers to your questions. This is what they are getting paid for.

Advisers, remember that we are here to learn from you. Please don’t forget that we trust in you and are paying to listen to what you have to say. A college that works together grows together. Students and faculty should be connected student-to-professor, face-to-face. This advising season, allow for some extra face time. It will pay off in the end.