Psychology Advising Center University of Colorado- Boulder

Psychology Advising Center University of Colorado- Boulder

ACADEMIC ADVISING SYLLABUS

Psychology Advising Center – University of Colorado- Boulder

Philosophy of academic advising

Academic advising is the process in which you, the student, and your advisor work together to set goals for your academic life. It is a collaborative process, and ultimately, you – the student – are responsible for your educational experience. Higher education has the potential to change your life for the better if you set goals and strive to achieve them. As you pursue your degree, you have the power to make changes that will set the course for a lifetime of learning. Our hope is that we can help you set those goals and encourage you to pursue and reach them. The Psychology Advising Center advisors will not “prescribe” answers or programs to you, but will encourage you to find academic areas that you enjoy and do well in. You will be in charge of reaching those goals, but I will help in whatever way possible.

Advisor Contact Information:

Chris Ricciardi M.A.

Psychology Advising Center

Muenzinger D 243-A

Phone: (303) 492-0862

Email:

Advising by Appointment: (Tentative Schedule)

Tuesday, Thursday & Friday

Appointment Hours: Tuesday and Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.,

Thursday 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Walk In hours: (subject to change)

Thursday 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Advisor is on call for quick advising questions.

Policies and Procedures for Appointments

  • Appointments can ONLY be made through or you can drop in during my walk in hours.
  • If you know you will not be able to keep an appointment, please email me as soon as possible to cancel or reschedule. Please don’t be a “no show” for your appointment.
  • Check your CU email regularly. This is the avenue I will use to contact you.

What I Expect of Students

You are expected to:

  • schedule regular appointments and/or contact me during each semester.
  • be on time for your scheduled appointment.
  • come to appointments prepared with questions and/or topics to discuss.
  • accept responsibility for your decisions and actions.
  • be open to developing and clarifying your personal values and goals.
  • be courteous and plan ahead (schedule appointments early and cancel or reschedule if necessary).
  • be an active learner by participating fully in the advising experience.
  • gather all relevant decision-making information.
  • familiarize yourself with the academic calendar and be aware of deadline dates.
  • seek help when needed and use appropriate campus resources.
  • Follow through on suggested actions, resources or referrals

What You Can Expect from Me

I am expected to:

  • explain the University’s curriculum, requirements, policies, and procedures when needed
  • be available to assist you through appointments, email and by phone
  • provide information that will help you make the best decisions possible for your academic goals
  • listen to your questions and communicate effectively
  • discuss any concerns or problems and brainstorm possible solutions
  • offer advice on selecting courses and assist you in developing an academic plan that satisfies degree requirements
  • refer you to campus resources as appropriate
  • provide encouragement for you to be the best student possible

Staying on Track

1st year

  • Be familiar with all requirements for graduation ant the major and have a general 4-yr plan in mind
  • Plan to meet twice: once in each semester. More if necessary
  • Become proficient with DARS and the registration system
  • Have a plan for remedying any MAPS deficiencies

2nd year

  • Adjust your 4-yr plan based on results from 1st year
  • Make and keep advising appointments as necessary to clarify requirements or progress
  • Explore careers in Psychology. Think about internships for the summer and future.
  • Consider another major, minor or certificate program
  • Begin to think about research opportunities and independent study

3rd year

  • Adjust your 4 year plan based on results from 2nd year, incorporating any added majors or minors, etc.
  • Explore the department honors program
  • Begin thinking about your plans for after graduation. Research graduate programs.
  • Begin applying for health professional programs.

4th year

  • Make final adjustments to your academic plan based on previous.
  • Early in the fall, make an appointment to complete a graduation packet. Submit it on time!
  • Apply to graduate school or jobs.
  • Check the Commencement website on the CU homepage as well as the Psychology dept. website for information about graduation ceremonies.
  • Stay focused and complete all remaining requirements successfully.

Important Dates for Fall

1) Last Day to Add a ClassSeptember 1st by 5:00pm

2) Last Day to Drop a Class with RefundSeptember 8th by 5:00pm

Additional Deadlines:

Important Resources:

1)AAC Website (

-Schedule an appointment with your advisor, declare a major/minor, get your unofficial transcripts, calculate your future GPA

2)Student Advising Website (

-Information on A&S degree requirements, majors and minors, transferring to another college at CU-Boulder (Inter University Transfer) and downloadable petitions and forms

3)My CU Info (

-register for classes, check your DARS degree audit, check your CU email and much more

4)Faculty Course Questionnaire (FCQ) (

-Review course feedback related to undergraduate courses and instructors

5)Student Academic Support Services (

-Information on tutoring assistance and study skills and time management workshops

6)Career Services (

-Provide assessments that help link your interests, skills, and values to potential majors, jobs and internships

7)Disability Services (

-Assist with providing students with special needs appropriate campus accommodations

8)Counseling Services (

-FREE individual sessions, online screenings, group workshops

9)Wardenburg Health Center (

-Feel Sick? This is the place to go

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