Advising Philosophy
I am a strong believer in holistic advising. Before I even knew about this type of advising I was a champion of it. One of the reasons I relate strongly to this advising method is because while I was an undergraduate student, I had an advisor who took this approach.
One of the first things I like to do when meeting with students is get to know them or the concern they are having. I want to understand why they have chosen their degree and what their goals and plans are moving forward or understand what is behind the concern and how we can solve the problem together or find resources to help. This hopefully will aid me in establishing a connection while allowing me to better understand the person before me.
I imagine that students should not only be able to come to an advisor to seek advice about their classes and future career but that they should be able to come to their advisors for support. I believe in the “open door policy” as much as possible. Students should be able to form a lasting relationship with their advisor, if they wish, from the first meeting until the last and perhaps beyond.
I received my undergraduate degree in Behavioral Science. My emphasis was in Psychology, and I learned and developed tools to assist me in being able to read people and ask the questions that may lead to guiding the students to what they are seeking. “Non nobis solum nati sumus. (Not for ourselves alone are we born.)” ― Marcus Tullius Cicero
I am in one of the best positions to set a student up for success, not only in their academic career, but also in their professional career. Listening to students and sharing information with them will enable them to feel supported and teach them how to advocate for themselves and ask for help. Setting students up for success should include their future outside of the classroom and giving them skills that will provide for everyday life.