Navigating your academic journey at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) can be an exciting yet challenging experience. To help you stay on the right track and make informed decisions about your education, UWM offers comprehensive academic advising services. This guide will walk you through the process of scheduling an academic advising appointment, ensuring you get the support you need to succeed.

Why Academic Advising Matters

Academic advising is a crucial resource for students, providing guidance and support to help you achieve your academic and career goals. Advisors can assist with course selection, degree planning, understanding university policies, and connecting you with valuable resources on campus. Whether you're a freshman just starting or a senior preparing to graduate, academic advising can make a significant difference in your college experience.

Benefits of Regular Advising

• Personalized Guidance: Academic advisors offer tailored advice based on your specific academic interests and career aspirations. They can help you explore different majors, minors, and certificate programs that align with your goals.
• Course Selection: Choosing the right courses can be overwhelming. Advisors help you understand degree requirements, prerequisites, and course sequencing, ensuring you stay on track for graduation.
• Resource Navigation: UWM has a wealth of resources available to students, from tutoring services to career counseling. Advisors can connect you with the resources you need to succeed academically and professionally.
• Problem Solving: If you're facing academic challenges, such as struggling in a course or considering a change in major, advisors can provide support and guidance to help you overcome these obstacles.
• Career Planning: Academic advising isn't just about academics; it's also about career preparation. Advisors can help you explore career options, develop your resume, and prepare for internships and job interviews.

Understanding UWM's Academic Advising Structure

UWM's academic advising structure is designed to provide students with specialized support based on their academic programs and needs. The university offers a variety of advising services, including:

• College/School-Based Advising: Each college or school within UWM has its own advising offices. These advisors specialize in the degree programs offered within their respective colleges, providing in-depth knowledge and support.
• University Academic Advising: This office provides advising services to undergraduate students who are exploring majors, undecided about their academic path, or transitioning between programs. University Academic Advising also supports specific student populations, such as transfer students and students on academic probation.
• Specialized Programs Advising: UWM offers a range of specialized programs, such as the Honors College and the McNair Scholars Program, which have their own dedicated advising staff. These advisors provide support tailored to the unique needs of students in these programs.

Finding Your Advisor

To find your assigned academic advisor, you can use the following methods:

1. Navigate to the UWM website: Starting at the UWM homepage is always a safe bet: https://uwm.edu/.
2. Check Your PAWS Account: Your PAWS (Panther Access to Web Services) account is your go-to resource for all things UWM. Log in to PAWS and look for the "Student Center" section. Here, you should find your advisor's name and contact information listed.
3. Contact Your College/School Advising Office: If you're unsure who your advisor is, you can contact the advising office for your college or school. They will be able to assist you in identifying your advisor and scheduling an appointment.
4. Use the UWM Directory: The UWM online directory allows you to search for faculty and staff members. You can search for advisors by name or department to find their contact information.

Step-by-Step Guide to Scheduling an Appointment

Now that you understand the importance of academic advising and how to find your advisor, let's walk through the process of scheduling an appointment. Most advising offices at UWM use an online scheduling system, making it easy to book appointments at your convenience.

Step 1: Access the Online Scheduling System

The first step is to access the online scheduling system used by your advisor's office. This is typically done through the Navigate Student app. Here’s how to get started:

1. Download Navigate Student: If you haven’t already, download the Navigate Student app from your app store (available for both iOS and Android).
2. Log In: Use your UWM ePanther credentials to log in to the app.
3. Navigate to Appointments: Look for the “Appointments” or “Advising” section within the app. This is where you’ll find the option to schedule a new appointment.

Step 2: Select the Type of Appointment

Once you're in the scheduling system, you'll need to select the type of appointment you want to schedule. Common appointment types include:

• General Advising: For general questions about degree requirements, course selection, and academic planning.
• Major Exploration: For students who are undecided about their major or want to explore different options.
• Registration Assistance: For help with registering for courses, understanding registration deadlines, and resolving registration issues.
• Graduation Planning: For seniors who are preparing to graduate and need to review their degree progress.

Select the appointment type that best fits your needs. If you're unsure which type to choose, you can contact your advisor's office for assistance.

Step 3: Choose a Date and Time

After selecting the appointment type, you'll be presented with a calendar showing available dates and times. Choose a date and time that works for your schedule. Keep in mind that some advisors may have limited availability, so it's best to schedule your appointment well in advance.

Step 4: Provide Additional Information

Before confirming your appointment, you may be asked to provide additional information, such as the purpose of your appointment or any specific questions you have. This information helps your advisor prepare for your meeting and provide you with the most relevant advice.

Step 5: Confirm Your Appointment

Once you've selected a date and time and provided any necessary information, review your appointment details and confirm your booking. You should receive a confirmation email with the details of your appointment. Be sure to add the appointment to your calendar so you don't forget!

Tips for a Successful Advising Appointment

To make the most of your academic advising appointment, consider the following tips:

• Prepare Questions: Before your appointment, take some time to think about your academic goals and any questions you have for your advisor. Write down your questions so you don't forget to ask them during the meeting.
• Gather Relevant Documents: Bring any relevant documents to your appointment, such as your degree audit, transcript, or course schedule. This will help your advisor provide you with accurate and personalized advice.
• Be On Time: Arrive on time for your appointment to ensure you have enough time to discuss your concerns and receive the guidance you need. If you're running late, contact your advisor's office to let them know.
• Take Notes: During your appointment, take notes on the advice and information you receive. This will help you remember key points and take action on your advisor's recommendations.
• Follow Up: After your appointment, follow up on any action items or recommendations from your advisor. This may include registering for courses, contacting a specific office, or exploring career options.

What to Do If You Need to Cancel or Reschedule

Life happens, and sometimes you may need to cancel or reschedule your academic advising appointment. Most advising offices at UWM allow you to cancel or reschedule appointments online. Simply log in to the online scheduling system and follow the instructions to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Be sure to do so as soon as possible to allow other students to book the appointment slot. Generally, it's good practice to provide at least 24 hours' notice if you need to make a change.

Additional Resources for Academic Success at UWM

In addition to academic advising, UWM offers a variety of other resources to help you succeed academically. These resources include:

• Tutoring Services: The UWM Learning Resource Center offers tutoring services in a variety of subjects. Whether you're struggling in a specific course or just need some extra help, tutoring can be a valuable resource.
• Writing Center: The UWM Writing Center provides assistance with all aspects of the writing process, from brainstorming to editing. Whether you're working on a research paper, a presentation, or a personal statement, the Writing Center can help you improve your writing skills.
• Career Services: The UWM Career Planning and Resource Center offers a range of services to help you prepare for your career. These services include career counseling, resume and cover letter workshops, and mock interviews.
• Disability Services: The UWM Accessibility Resource Center provides accommodations and support to students with disabilities. If you have a disability that affects your academic performance, contact the Accessibility Resource Center to learn about the services available to you.

Conclusion

Academic advising is an invaluable resource for students at UWM. By understanding the advising structure, scheduling appointments, and preparing effectively, you can make the most of your advising sessions and achieve your academic and career goals. Remember to utilize the various resources available to you at UWM to enhance your overall college experience. So, go ahead and book that appointment – your future self will thank you!