Advising

At the University of Mount Saint Vincent, advising is designed to support students at every stage of their college experience. Students work with both a Student Success Advisor and a Faculty Advisor, who together provide guidance on academic progress, goals, and future plans.

Advising Team

Student Success Advisor

Student Success Advisors serve as the primary advisor during a student’s first three semesters and remain a key resource throughout the student experience at UMSV.

They help students:

• Understand degree requirements and academic policies
• Plan schedules and prepare for registration
• Stay on track toward graduation
• Navigate challenges and connect with campus resources
• Build strong academic habits and adjust to college life
• Student Success Advisors provide holistic, student-centered support, helping students navigate both academic and personal transitions.

Connecting with a Student Success Advisor

Student Success Advisors are located in the UMSV Advising Center, on the 2nd floor of Seton Hall.

Students are assigned a Student Success Advisor based on their major of study, ensuring guidance aligned with their academic program. Students can find their assigned advisor and schedule appointments through Navigate.

Certain student populations, including HEOP and TRIO students, are paired with a dedicated advisor who provides specialized support tailored to their needs.

Faculty Advisor

Following the third semester, as students progress in their major, the Faculty Advisor becomes the primary advisor and mentor for academic and career development.

Faculty Advisors help students:

• Select courses within their major and plan long-term
• Explore internships, research, and experiential learning opportunities
• Discuss career goals and graduate school options
• Prepare for life after graduation

Faculty Advisors bring discipline-specific expertise to support students in achieving success within their chosen field.

Students can find their assigned advisor through Navigate.

When to Meet with an Advisor

To support academic and personal success, students are required to meet with their advisor to review and approve their course schedule prior to registering for the upcoming semester.

Ongoing meetings with an advisor help students stay on track and make informed decisions about their academic journey. Students are encouraged to connect with their advisor regularly, especially:

• Before registering for classes each semester
• When they have questions about their academic plan or major
• If they are experiencing academic challenges
• When exploring internships, careers, or graduate school opportunities
• As they prepare for graduation
• Anytime they are unsure where to go or need help connecting with campus resources

Advisors are available to provide guidance and support throughout each student’s academic experience.

A Collaborative Approach to Student Success

UMSV’s advising model is built to provide:

• Consistent support early in the college journey
• Meaningful faculty mentorship within the major
• Clear guidance and accessible resources

The advising team supports students in making informed decisions, staying on track, and achieving their academic and professional goals.