As you reflect on the past months, ask yourself, “What tools have I learned in order to improve my success as a student?” “Who has truly helped me while at HPU?” And “who else should I consider to be part of my team?” The concept of creating and developing a support team is nothing new to successful students; in fact, it’s non-negotiable.

In past issues, the Center for Graduate and Adult Services (CGAS) has looked at best practices in student success in time management and study skills. In this third article we look at students who have developed and HPU support team in order to strengthen their success.

Public relations student Kasey Leavitt, said that without her academic advisor, “I’d be lost…but I think where most students struggle is that they either don’t partner with their advisor or they expect the advisor to do all the work.” Leavitt, who works full time while attending college, said “the advisor helps them achieve their goals, but the student must take the initiative to do the research, be responsible for getting their classes in order, and most importantly, follow up.”

Master of Arts in Organizational Change candidate, Johanna Falenofoa, said she has been fortunate to have classes with a lot of professional and caring instructors.” As a Bachelor of Arts student in Human Services, she could always count on them to clarify or explain matters. Falenofoa also utilizes CGAS, which “is an invaluable resource and tool.” She said her academic advisor has “always provided me with one-on-one personalized service so that any question I had, from registering for a specific class to completing my petition to graduate, she was there to answer it for me.”

While not a primary client of CGAS, Richard McLeod of Nursing, said viewing each of his support team members as “mentors” helps him see opportunities for personal growth and maturity. “Thus the best approach to have with these individuals is to recognize that they are here to help you function in the real world, and your job is to utilize their skills and knowledge.”

Brandi Boatner, Master of Arts in Communication candidate, said having a good working relationship with her academic advisor is key. “Your advisor advises hundreds of individuals and will do everything to help you utilize the best strategies and practices while selecting classes, petitioning for classes, and degree planning,” said Boatner, who was recently elected national president of the Public Relations Society of Students in America (PRSSA). “Don’t get frustrated with your advisor,” she added. “Work together towards a viable solution for your future. Advisors are one of the greatest tools at the University. Don’t be afraid to use them wisely.”

Whether it’s your professor, dean, program chair, staff members at the registrar’s, academic advisor, the librarian, or other HPU staff, CGAS is dedicated to your success. If you want to optimize your academic experience and help launch your career, whether it’s your first, second, or third, seek out our help. The first step you take in doing so will be one of the most important decisions you make at HPU.

For more information about enhancing your student success, call The Center for Graduate and Adult Services (CGAS) 543-8034 or stop by UB 911.