Defining educational goals and objectives
As an advisor, you will assist students in defining educational goals and objectives. Ask questions to determine student goals. Questioning begins with the broadest inquiry and moves to more focused questions. The following questions are helpful in determining student goals and objectives:
How may I help you? Are you a new or returning student?
Listen carefully to the student's responses. Listening is an important aspect of establishing a trusting advising relationship. The first contact with a student is critical in establishing confidence.
What is your major?
If a student wishes to register for courses, you must know the major or program of interest to determine curriculum requirements. The requirements for career students vary greatly by program. Transfer requirements vary by major and transfer school.
Have you earned credit somewhere other than Black Hawk College?
If the student has completed postsecondary coursework elsewhere determine if the credit was earned at a regionally accredited institution. Determine if the student has completed a request to have a prior college transcript evaluated. Transfer courses, military credit and CLEP credits may be equated to career elective, transfer elective, or general education credit. Advanced Placement credits are equated to specific courses. All types of transfer credits list a "T" in the grade field in the SHATERM form in Banner. Note: Refer to the information in the advisor manual regarding Interpreting Transfer Credit.