Southeastern Louisiana University

Freshmen Advising

Undecided Students

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Advising Calendar in Word Document

Senior Academic Advisor: Mrs. Terry Fitzpatrick, N.C.C. Office:  Southeastern Hall, Room 236 Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00 - 4:00 by appointment Phone:  985/549-2252 or 985/549-3981 Email:  Terry.Fitzpatrick@selu.edu

Terry Fitzpatrick is a Nationally Certified Counselor who completed her graduate studies in the Counselor Education program at Southeastern.  After completing her undergraduate studies, with a Bachelor of Art in Social Work from Hood College in Maryland, Terry worked as an advocate for children and elderly who were victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or who suffered from brain injuries.  She is currently assigned as the Senior Academic Advisor for Undecided students.  This population is her challenge, and once again she serves in a position of advocacy.  Terry intuitively guides students in self-discovery, and helps them find their niche in academia, not only in identifying a suitable college major, but in identifying learning styles. Terry is currently working on professional counselor licensure in the state of Louisiana.

Brianna Righteous is assigned to academically advise Undecided majors.  In her first year of employment in the position, she has helped to expand the repertoire of career exploration resources and determine how they can be used to expedite the decision-making process for students who need to declare a major. Brianna gained experience teaching freshmen and as an academic advisor in a private university where she advised students across disciplines and those who had a multidisciplinary focus.  Brianna earned her undergraduate degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from LSU and pursued her master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from UNO.  Brianna’s graduate study included courses in student development theory, which she continues to pursue as a research interest.  

Mindy Notriano will be assigned to advise Undecided majors and looks forward to helping them focus on their talents and interests in selecting a college major.  Mindy previously taught a freshman success course and advised Undecided majors in a private college in Louisiana.  Her experience has helped her understands the unique academic concerns faced by the Undecided population and the importance of their making timely decisions.  Mindy has expressed her enthusiasm over the opportunity to join the Southeastern family.  Mindy has a Master degree in Guidance and Counseling an is currently pursuing a professional license for counseling in Louisiana.

First Year Freshmen

Required Materials:   
• One three-pronged, two pocket folder for your Academic Advising Portfolio
 
• University Catalog and Planner

• List of questions or concerns you may have

• During advising session—a list of classes you wish to take

Academic Advising is your LIFE-LINE to the University as it is designed to assist you in transitioning successfully from high school to college.  

During your first two semesters here at Southeastern, we will work together to explore career and academic opportunities, identify and attain realistic goals, and develop decision-making skills leading to personal growth and independence.


Objectives through Academic Advising:
• Develop a relationship with your assigned Academic Advisor through face-to-face meetings

• Navigate the LEONet system successfully (registration, holds, transcripts, calendars, GPA calculator…)

• Identify and utilize campus resources (counseling, disability services, tutoring, supplemental instruction…)

• Select appropriate courses based on interest area(s)

• Declare a major field of study through Career Exploration (assessments, evaluations, plan development…)

• Identify roadblocks and plan strategies to overcome them (time management, poor study skills, stress, balancing work and school…)

• Get connected to the University (culture, sports, clubs, KSLU Radio, study groups, peer mentoring…)

As your Academic Advisor I will:
• Listen carefully to questions and concerns

• Provide information, resources, and referrals as needed

• Maintain confidentiality

• Help formulate and realize academic and career goals

• Provide guidance through the career exploration process

• Approve course selection and remove advising holds

• Plan to meet with you during the semester as needed

As a successful College Freshman you will need to:
• CHECK WEBMAIL DAILY (Southeastern account); this is the primary means of communication on campus

• Meet with your CSE Advisor to: (1) complete an academic map, (2) complete an at-risk assessment and follow through on prescribed actions as needed, (3) explore career possibilities as appropriate, and (4) complete course selection and registration for the following semester.

• Show up for appointments on time and be prepared (bring Catalog, Portfolio, Questions, List of Courses…)

• Record all university transactions, academic progress, and goals; keep in Portfolio with advising forms, etc.

• Work through the Career Exploration Process; declare major
 

Policies:
• Advising appointments MUST be scheduled for each of your 1st two regular semesters (Fall and Spring) 

• Walk-ins are welcomed, however, just know you may have to wait

• Cell phones need to be turned off during advising sessions