Class registration is a necessity, but it’s also a nuisance. Students at UWG have become accustomed to a negative experience during this time. After listening to several students, it is clear the students are not the only ones to blame.

During registration, students are seeking knowledge about what to take and when the best time is to take it. This knowledge is not always obtained. It is the advisor’s job to see the progression of each student and then to guide the student in the proper direction to complete the individual’s course of study. Some students feel as if their advisor doesn’t take this job seriously.

One positive aspect of advisement is obtaining information about classes. Kenyada Boatwright, a student at UWG, believes it’s the only thing advisement is good for.

“The only thing that happens regularly when you’re advised is you might get the information that you are looking for about a certain class,” said Boatwright. “Other than that, it’s frustrating.”

Class information is not a top-secret data file that can only be found by government officials.  Any student can find the same information on Banweb or in the course catalog for the school.  Now that the positive aspect of an advisement session can be ruined by an inquisitive or knowledgeable student, the advisor must look to improve in other areas.

The first mistake commonly experienced with an advisor is that they aren’t informed about the correct classes a student needs to take.

“I have experienced the advisor not knowing the exact courses I need to take,” said Boatwright.  “They also don’t know if minor classes would count towards my degree.”

When an advisor is not familiar with these things it can make the session last longer than it should. How many college students have serious time to waste?

Another problem students are faced with is other students. The few occasions where the advisor is prepared to assist the student with any problem, question or concern, it is the student before one’s appointment that causes a delay. It is the student’s responsibility to be prepared for their advisement so the experience can be enjoyed and meaningful. Without proper preparation by the student first, the experience is poised for disaster.

The last problem students face with advisement is a lack of respect. Students and advisors should make it their obligation to be prepared and on-time. Tardiness by either party causes complications.

Josh Dillard, another student at UWG, agrees with this notion.

“What bothers me the most is the advisor does not have a respect for my time,” said Dillard. “If I’m on time, then they should be as well.”

These problems can be controlled by students and advisors if each party would take the time to prepare for the isolated session.  Then, and only then, will advising sessions be viewed as a positive experience and not frustration.