When we accept a student to Suffolk University, it’s because we believe that student has the ability to succeed—to complete the required coursework, to graduate, and to move on either to a chosen profession or to graduate school.

As an incoming freshman or transfer student there is a lot to learn, not only in your coursework, but in navigating the unfamiliar territory of your new college experience. You will be assigned one faculty advisor during orientation to assist you in selecting your academic schedule.

There are Faculty advisors in every department in the College. Their training enables them to provide sound advice and guidance. And while they are knowledgeable about the College in general, they also have a wide range of resources at their disposal, to direct you to the information that will help you make the best decisions.

Your departmental advisor

If you designate a major course of study when applying to the University, you’ll be assigned an Advisor from your chosen department. If you’d like to speak to an advisor before the orientation and registration period, you can contact your department and speak to the Core Academic Advisor there.

If you’re uncertain about your future major and apply as an open major, your Seminar for Freshman instructor will help you with course selection and registration, provide information about University resources, and to help you transition into a major course of study. Once you’ve decided on a major, the advisor can help you contact with your chosen department, where a permanent advisor will be assigned. Prior to Orientation and Registration, open majors can contact David Gallant for assistance (Office: Fenton 104; Phone:  305-1971)

Your freshman year advisor

During your freshman year, your Seminar for Freshmen instructor will act as your Freshman Year Advisor to help you gain a solid foothold within the workings of the University. So if you haven’t declared a major, your Freshman Advisor will be doing double duty.

Your student/advisor relationship

Ultimately, you are responsible for your own success. When you have questions, need clarification, or could benefit from the experience and expertise of someone who knows the University, it’s up to you to seek out your advisor. You’re only required to see your Advisor twice a year, for program approval during the fall and spring advising registration periods, but remember, the more you work to build a real relationship with your advisor, the more your advisor will be able to provide help when you really need it.