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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.

Q: What about parents attending advising meetings? 

A: While we strongly encourage students to practice personal agency and independence when meeting with their academic advisor, parents can attend advising meetings if the student gives consent and has filled out the 3rd Party Release form in their my.unt.edu account.