First-year advising
In spring 2024 the Academic Advising Center started advising all first-year students who are newly admitted to degree programs or have completed less than 30 credits at UAF.
First-year advisors guide students through exploration and personal growth in a relationship of trust, safety, and support. Students are connected with campus resources and engagement opportunities and we empower students to take ownership of their learning, define their education, and develop career goals while achieving academic success as they transition to their chosen field of study.
First-year advising timeline
We have created this timeline as a guide - you and your first-year advisor will adapt this to best meet your needs and develop your personalized plan for success.
| 1st semester | Your advising journey begins! | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Connection |
When | What | Why |
| 1-2 months before the semester begins | Appointment: Get to know you, your major, and semester plan | Be prepared and confident heading into your first semester | |
|
Connection |
When | What | Why |
| First Friday of the semester | Check-in: Opportunity to ask questions and get support | Provide a strong start to your UAF journey | |
|
Connection |
When | What | Why |
| Midterm week | Check-in: What is your progress like so far? | Build on your strengths and troubleshoot your challenges | |
|
Connection |
When | What | Why |
| 1 week before priority registration | Appointment: Prep for next semester and reflect on your successes | Ensure a spot in the classes you need for your degree plan | |
| 2nd semester | Your advising journey continues! | ||
|
Connection |
When | What | Why |
| First Friday of the semester | Check-in: Opportunity to ask questions and get support | Provide a strong continuation of your UAF journey | |
|
Connection |
When | What | Why |
| Midterm week | Check-in: What is your progress like so far? | Build on your strengths and troubleshoot your challenges | |
| Future | Your advising journey transitions! | ||
|
Connection with your major advisor* |
When | What | Why |
| 1 week before priority registration | Appointment: Begin working with your major advisor | You have completed your first 30 credits! | |
*If a student has not completed 30 credits or is not ready to transition to their major advisor after two semesters, subsequent academic advising connections will closely resemble those in the 2nd semester listed above.
- Academically set: Become familiar with UAF policies and academic requirements.
- Technologically sound: Utilize UAF software and virtual platforms.
- Financially savvy: Understand financial aid/scholarships, account details and deadlines.
- Career and future oriented: Connect with Career Services and explore future career pathways.
- Purposefully connected: Participate in extracurricular opportunities and experiences.