Oakland University
Tuesday, August 21, 2012

First Year Advising Center to target new and undecided students

By Eric Reikowski, media relations assistant


As the fall semester approaches, Oakland University will introduce a valuable new initiative to help students forge a path to academic and career success. The new First Year Advising Center will provide academic advising services for first-year students, as well as all students who are undecided or re-deciding on their major. The center also will offer free major and career exploration for undergraduate students and facilitate a variety of first-year programs, including orientation sessions. 

To help students stay on track, each will be assigned a specific adviser whom they will meet with at least once per semester to review academic progress. Supplemental appointments, workshops and personal assessments offered through the center will educate students on potential majors and careers, and connect them to academic and social opportunities.

Sara Webb, director of the First Year Advising Center, will oversee a professional staff that includes five academic advisers, two senior academic advisers and an assistant director of advising outreach. 

“Our goal is to help students establish a solid foundation,” Webb explained. “The advisers will guide them in selecting classes that allow for a balanced schedule. The first year of college is crucial for students to take the right steps and chart a course toward graduation.”

Additionally, the university’s “28” campaign has been introduced to help freshman students focus on completing the 28 credits needed for sophomore status by the end of their first academic year. An ice cream social will be held from 3-5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 7, in the Oakland Center Pioneer Food Court for students who achieved sophomore status during the 2011-2012 year. Along with a live performance from local band, Killer Flamingos, this “Celebrate the 28” event will highlight many opportunities available to students throughout the coming year. 
 
Located in 121 North Foundation Hall, the First Year Advising Center will officially open on Tuesday, Sept. 4. For additional information, call (248) 370-3227 or view the website at oakland.edu/firstyearadvising.
The new First Year Advising Center will provide academic advising services for first-year students, as well as all students who are undecided or re-deciding on their major.

Created by Katherine Land - Deleted (land@oakland.edu) on Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Modified by Katherine Land - Deleted (land@oakland.edu) on Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Article Start Date: Tuesday, August 21, 2012