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griffin Center for Excellence in Academic Advising

The First Ten Questions to Ask an Advisee

  1. What do you hope eventually to do with your life?

  2. Why did you choose to come to Penn State?

  3. What major or majors are you considering?

  4. Why are you considering those majors—simply to prepare for a career?
    • Do you really like that area of study?
    • Do you think it will lead to a high-paying job or prestigious job?

  5. Are there any special situations that we need to consider in planning your educational program? For example, do you have a job? Are you responsible for your family? Do you have a disability? Do you have military obligations?

  6. What questions do you have about:
    • Penn State
    • your major
    • requirements
    • scheduling?

  7. Where will you you be living? What kinds of outside activities do you like? (sports, music, theater, student government, literary)

  8. Are you aware of the resources available to you? (tutoring, counseling, career planning, study abroad, honors)

  9. What, if anything, worries you about your college career? Or do you have concerns about adjusting to the University?

  10. How can I as your adviser help you most?
    • PSU policies
    • scheduling
    • career guidance
    • problems—personal, academic
    • information
Athleen Stere, Associate Professor of Biology, Penn State Altoona


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