Academic Advising

At Heidelberg College, we recognize that advising and the timely delivery of information are critical components to your academic success. The information contained below in “Advising Philosophy at Heidelberg College” and “Advisor Assignments” is designed to assist you, as a student of Heidelberg College, in understanding your responsibility and your advisor’s function in ensuring your academic success.


Advising Philosophy at Heidelberg College

  1. This is YOUR Education. Your choice to come to Heidelberg College reflects your decision to receive a quality college education. We provide an environment that can foster your education, personal growth and development, but it is up to you to participate in the education process. We cannot make you succeed in classes or even make you graduate. This is your education and is dependent upon the choices you make.
  2. These are YOUR Decisions. We promise to make available the information and academic contacts you need to help you make good academic choices including what program to major in, what courses you should take, what activities you should participate in and where you should live. Academic and student life advisors exist throughout campus to help you through these tough decisions. It is important for you to remember that advisors are here to assist you with the key decisions you need to make regarding your education.
  3. WE are here to help YOU make good decisions. There is a lot of information available to you as a student through peers, faculty advisors and published information. We are here to help you find information, weigh your options and make good academic decisions. Our community of learning “promotes and nurtures intellectual, personal and professional development, leading to a life of purpose with distinction.” (Heidelberg College Mission Statement).

Advisor Assignments

First Year Student Advising
During New Student Orientation, incoming students become acquainted with the College community and the academic program. Orientation is the beginning of the student’s involvement in Heidelberg’s First Year Experience program. Each student is assigned a faculty advisor. The first official meeting with an advisor will be prior to the start of the academic year.
 
Upon completion of the First Year Experience program, students are encouraged to select a faculty advisor in their chosen major. Faculty advisors in your major are best able to assist you through the curriculum of your chosen major and provide valuable mentoring and career advice.
 
General Student Advising
Students not in the First Year Experience Program will be assigned to a faculty advisor in their major. Faculty advisors will help you make decisions regarding your chosen major. They are also a good resource to provide career advice, opportunities and mentoring. As you develop bonds with the faculty at Heidelberg, you may choose to change your advisor. Forms to request a change of advisor can be found on the Registrar’s webpage.