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Academic Advising

Academic advising at Â鶹´«Ã½ ― Madrid is an important aspect of the educational experience. Students work closely with advisors throughout their time at SLU-Madrid. The Office of Academic Advising provides students with the support and resources necessary to achieve their academic goals.

Two students talking while sitting at the PRH patio

Our goals are to:

  • Assist students in their understanding of academic requirements.
  • Nurture intellectual maturation and self-confidence.
  • Encourage students to take an active role in the advisement process.
  • Foster a positive working relationship between students, advisors and faculty mentors.

Our advising staff is here to help you plan your curriculum, locate necessary information and resources, and navigate University policies and procedures. 

Expectations for Students

  • Meet the academic advisor at appropriate times and come to advising appointments prepared to assume responsibility for curriculum and degree planning.
  • Clarify your personal values and goals and provide the advisor with information regarding academic interests and abilities.
  • Become knowledgeable about University programs, policies and procedures, and utilize available resources and services.
  • Ask questions if you do not understand an issue or have a specific concern.
  • Keep a personal record of your progress toward completing degree requirements and meeting academic goals.
  • Accept responsibility for the decisions and actions (or inactions) that affect your educational progress and goals.

Expectations for Academic Advisors

  • Protect and secure the integrity of a SLU degree by enforcing University and departmental policies and requirements.
  • Understand and effectively communicate the curriculum, graduation requirements, and policies and procedures.
  • Be available, approachable and personable.
  • Demonstrate concern for and an interest in students' success.
  • Assist students in working closely with their faculty mentors and their professors.
  • Make appropriate referrals within the University.
  • Encourage students to develop skills that will lead to self-responsibility.
  • In the spirit of Jesuit tradition, demonstrate care and respect for each student, and model the University Mission.
  • Maintain confidentiality and do not discuss students' academic records without permission.

Components of Our Advising Model

  • The first- and second-year advisor supports individualized educational planning and encourages strategies for academic and transitional success.
  • The junior and senior advisor assists students as they transition into the second half of their degrees, provides guidance in discovering advanced topics of interest, promotes understanding of degree requirements and relevant policies/procedures, and creates graduation plans to ensure successful completion of degrees.
  • Faculty mentors help with educational planning and offer a disciplinary perspective on identifying students' interests and information on specific majors and careers.
  • The study abroad advisor helps students identify study abroad experiences, assists with application procedures, and monitors the progress and successful completion of the off-campus semester.
  • The career counselor helps students to identify career options and to obtain internships and work experience in those fields.

Students are responsible for active participation in the advising process. Through collaboration with all aspects of the advising process, students achieve the support needed for successful transition, academic success, and choice of major and career.