Q: When is the best time to see my academic advisor?

A: See your advisor at least two weeks before your registration date every semester. Registration dates can be found here.

Q: How should I prepare for my academic advising appointment? 

A: There are several things you can do ahead of time to make the most of your academic advising appointment:

• Write down all your questions and bring them to the appointment. Some helpful questions to bring to your academic advising appointment can be found here:
• Know where your appointment is located or how it will be conducted (in person/virtual). Plan ahead and be prepared to arrive on time.
• Develop a list of classes to discuss with your advisor based on your degree requirements, interests, and goals.
• Think about your educational goals, major options, and your progress in your current courses (if currently enrolled)..
• Let your advisor know the purpose of your visit so they can be better prepared for your appointment in the comment section when scheduling your appointment in Navigate. 
  • Your advisor won’t know if you want to discuss class scheduling, research opportunities, preparation for graduate school or something else, unless you tell them what’s on your mind.

Q: What should I do during (and after) my advising appointment to make sure I get the information I need? 

A: Below are recommended steps to take during and after your advising appointment:

• Participate and be engaged in the advising process. Academic advising is a two-way street, and advisors need to know what your goals are to be able to point you in the right direction.
• Ask questions when you don’t understand. This is your opportunity to get answers to your academic questions and/or concerns.
• Take notes!
• Review the materials given to you and follow-up with recommended resources and actions suggested to you.
• Reach out to your academic advisor via email with any clarifying questions you might have after your appointment. 
• Meet with specialized advisors as needed. 

Q: How can I make sure I'm picking the best classes for my degree plan and schedule? 

A: Meet with your academic advisor every semester, and think about the recommendations below when coming up with options for your course schedule: 

• Consider your obligations outside of school (work, practice schedules, etc.); don’t try to do too much.
• Think about the times of the day when you are most focused.  Can you avoid classes offered during times when you are less attentive or overly tired?
• Remember that some classes are only offered at certain times. Prioritize these classes first by building the rest of your schedule around them.
• Talk to friends about instructors, course formats, and course content. They can be helpful sources  of information. But remember: your friends won’t always like or dislike the style that works for you.
• Consider more than the title of a course. Read the course descriptions in the UNT Catalog. Always check prerequisites in the course description.
• Think about where classroom buildings are in relation to your other classes. Can you make it on time?
• Know how each course is counting for you. (Is it an elective? Is it a major requirement? Is it counting as an upper-level course?)
• Don’t take the same course twice. Learn about duplicate credit like dual credit courses and/or AP credit.