Advising Philosophy

At CCAS, we strive to create a welcoming and inclusive community. We respect, value, and celebrate the diversity of all UW–Madison students. By committing ourselves to supporting and advocating for students of all identities, we hope to help foster a healthy campus environment where students can explore academic interests, make decisions about majors and careers, and reach their full potential.

Extracurricular experiences are integral to career and academic development, and we encourage students to also seek opportunities outside of the classroom. Although students are ultimately responsible for their educational experiences, we believe academic advising is a collaborative process, and we do all we can to help students identify and achieve their individual academic and career goals.

Advising with CCAS

CCAS is designed to help undergraduate students explore the many academic opportunities at UW-Madison. Our advisors are knowledgeable about every major and certificate at UW-Madison. With this knowledge, we are available to all undergraduate students regardless of major.

Students can also be assigned to a CCAS advisor. All assigned CCAS students are housed within the College of Letters & Science (L&S). Students will stay with their CCAS advisor until they declare a major. Students assigned to CCAS include the following:

1) Incoming students who are exploring multiple majors across different academic schools and colleges. These students will advise with CCAS during SOAR.

2) Current students who decide to change their major and want help exploring options.

3) Students who plan to apply to the College of Engineering and were not directly admitted.

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Advising Expectations

At CCAS, our role is to help students find the information and experiences that will move them in the directions they choose. CCAS advisors will not “prescribe” answers or programs to students. We instead support students through the process of finding academic areas that they enjoy and in which they will be successful. Your advisors are here to introduce you to opportunities and help you make decisions.

Advising with CCAS is a partnership between you and your advisor. Students will get the most out of their advising experience with the right set of expectations. Below are our lists of what you can expect from your CCAS advisor, and what your advisor can expect from you.

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What advisors can expect from students:

Seek Support. Take the initiative to seek support as often as you need it. It’s up to you to schedule and attend your appointments. Advising is not limited to certain topics or specific months of year.

Track your progress. You are responsible for your own educational decisions and seeking information when needed. Track important deadlines, requirements, policies, and academic tools that affect you.

Be prepared. You are in charge of leading your advising appointment. Think critically about what guidance you need while you work with your advisor.

Be honest and open-minded. Your advisor can only help you if they understand your interests, goals, and concerns. Be willing to open up and have ongoing communication.

Follow through. Your advising appointment is only half of what you need to do. To get the most out of your advising experience, you need to follow through on the next steps you discuss.

Take responsibility. Understand that the final decision is always up to you as the student. CCAS advisors will not “prescribe” answers or programs to you. Your advisor is here as a guide, and will challenge you to make independent decisions.

What students can expect from advisors:

Be available. Your advisor will be available to you on a regular basis and respond to you in a timely manner. Your advisor will keep their Starfish calendar up-to-date and be reachable by email.

Clarify information. Your advisor will help find answers and resources for your questions and concerns. Your advisor will also ask follow-up questions to understand your needs.

Stay current. Your advisor will stay informed on academic information and any changes impacting students. Advisors will consult with professionals across campus to provide accurate information.

Create a supportive environment. Your advisor provide a safe, non-judgmental space to share what is important to you. Your advisor will keep your information confidential (unless there are special circumstances).

Provide options & connections. Your advisor will explain the different options available and provide suggestions. When appropriate, your advisor will make referrals to campus resources and advising offices.

Help develop independence. Your advisor will challenge you to take responsibility and support your self-advocacy. Advisors are here to help guide your decision-making towards your personal success.