Are you a new First Time In College student needing to sign up for HOLA ( Hands on Line Advising)? Click here to sign up
Academic advisors are committed to engaging, encouraging, equipping, and empowering you to explore and excel in the college environment and beyond.
This means that you are the captain of the ship, and your advisor is the map and compass that will help your find your way. Your advisor will not "prescribe" answers or courses for you. Instead, they will encourage you to find academic areas and courses that are the best fit for you. Extracurricular experiences are integral to career and academic development, therefore your advisor will also encourage you to seek learning opportunities outside the classroom.
Academic advising is a collaborative process, and ultimately, you -the student- are responsible for your educational experience.
Walk-ins Welcomed...No Appointments Necessary
Academic advising is available on a walk-in, first-come, first-served basis. Currently, we do not offer advising appointments.
To visit with an academic advisor, check in at the Academic Advising Services window in the first floor of the Cypress Campus Center. Please understand that during peak periods (e.g. registration, etc.) the wait time may be lengthy. Come in during non-peak times for a minimal wait time.
Who is my academic advisor?
You are not assigned to a specific academic advisor. When you come into visit with an academic advisor you will be assigned to the first available advisor. You always have the option of requesting a specific advisor if they are available.
What can I expect from my academic advisor?
You can expect your academic advisor to:
- understand Northwest Vista College degree and certificate requirements and effectively communicate them
- provide accurate information about educational options, requirements, policies, and procedures
- provide a safe space in which to share your thoughts, aspirations, concerns, and interests
- refer you to quality resources
- listen carefully to your questions, concerns, and points of confusion
- maintain confidentiality
- encourage and support you as you gain the skills and knowledge necessary for success
- assist you in making course, major, and transfer decisions
What will your academic advisor expect from you?
Northwest Vista College and your academic advisor expect you to:
- schedule regular visits and/or contacts during each semester
- come prepared with questions and/or topics to discuss
- accept responsibility for your decisions and actions
- read all college communications and meet critical deadlines for functions such as registration, add/drops, and application for graduation
- inform your advisor of important changes that directly affect your academic performance and educational goals
- research college programs, policies, procedures, and opportunities as appropriate
- keep a record of your goals and academic progress toward graduation
- be courteous and plan ahead (come in during non-peak times when the wait is minimal)
Academic Dismissal Advising
First or Second Academic Dismissal
Student placed on Academic Dismissal from the Alamo Colleges for the 1st or 2nd time are required to sit out at least one semester. After remaining out for one (1) semester term for each of the First or Second Academic Dismissals, students may re-enter on Continued Academic Probation only after meeting with an Academic Advisor. This must be completed at least 10 business days prior to the start of the semester.
1st and 2nd dismissal packet
3rd/ Permanent Dismissal
A student on Academic Dismissal for a third (3) time or more will not be permitted to enroll in the Alamo Colleges for one (1) calendar year after which a petition may be made for re-admission. This petition must be submitted at least 10 business days prior to the start of school. The petition must be submitted for committee review, and will not be accepted in an individual advising session.
Permanent Dismissal Petition Packet
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