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Role of the Academic Advisor

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.

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.