Close student-faculty relationships are a central feature of a Hampshire education. Advisors provide academic advice, support, serve as mentors in their field, and help the student successfully navigate their academic paths. The advisor/advisee connection can be strengthened when the student and faculty member work closely together on common academic projects.
Division I Advisor
During Division I, the faculty advisor supports students’ academic progress, selection of courses, and progress toward completion of Div I, including assembling the Div I portfolio.
The Division I advisor typically stays with the student until the student has filed for Division II and has an assigned Division II committee, which typically happens during the third semester. Transfer students will be assigned an advisor based on their interests, and keep that advisor at least until Division II is filed.
Advisor During Division II and Division III
During advanced studies, the Division II or III chairperson serves as the academic advisor.
Divisional Seminar Advising Communities
In Division I, the advising communities (comprising first-year students, faculty, staff, and peer mentors) established within Division I Seminars support navigating Hampshire and navigating Division I, and provide academic community.
In Division II, the advising communities within Division II seminars (comprising Division II students, faculty, and peer mentors) support navigating the transition from Division II to Division III.
In Division III, the advising communities within Division III seminars (comprising Division III students and faculty) support navigating the Division III process.
Major Roles of the Advisor
- Assisting students in planning an academic program and developing their educational interests
- Helping students understand Hampshire’s programs and procedures
- Contributing to the determination of students’ academic standing
- Writing letters of recommendation, upon request
- Counseling students about internship opportunities, field study, study abroad, exchange, leave of absence, and withdrawal
Student's Responsibilities
It is the student’s responsibility to remain in good communication with the academic advisor and to attend advising sessions on Advising Days.