Academic Advising

About Academic Advising

Academic advising is an educational process that, by intention and design, facilitates students’ understanding of the meaning and purpose of higher education and fosters their intellectual and personal development toward academic success and lifelong learning (National Academic Advising Association, 2004).

The Boonshoft School of Medicine (BSOM) Director of Learning Support, Academic Advisor/Peer Tutoring Program Supervisor, Medical Education Learning Specialist, and medical students play important roles in the advising process. 

Learning Support Team

Student/Advisee Responsibilities

Schedule advising appointments and:

• Prepare a list of questions/concerns before meeting. 

• Meet academic deadlines for registering and dropping/adding coursework. 

• Read BSOM mail and university e-mail accounts to be informed regarding announcements and, pertinent information requiring compliance. 

• Know the requirements of the BSOM programs and work closely with either Dr. Nepal,  Dr. Johnson, or Ms. Hipple to ensure that requirements are completed. 

• Take responsibility and ownership for success. 

• Follow through on suggested actions or resources. 

• Follow-up meetings on academic programs with either Dr. Nepal, Dr. Johnson or Ms. Hipple

Learning Support Team Responsibilities

• Be available to meet with students by appointment or walk-in and be responsive to email and telephone inquiries.
• Discuss academic performance and implications of performance in an open and honest manner.
• Be a responsive listener and refer students to appropriate referral support services that can assist with achieving success at BSOM.
• Provide information, consultation, and resources to assist students in preparing for USMLE Step 1, Step 2 CK, Step 2 CS and other licensure exams.
• Monitor student’s progress.
• Develop techniques and activities focused on study strategies, time management and test-taking techniques.
• Provide information and resources to assist with enhancing and developing academic success skills that will contribute toward the student becoming an effective lifelong learner.
• Provide informative workshops and seminars. 

• Serve as a resource to all students, particularly new students regarding academic requirements, policies, and procedures. 

• Triage with Student Affairs and Admissions staff and faculty to facilitate academic progress of all students - to meet the individual student's and the institution’s overall educational objectives.