Guiding Principles for Academic Advising
UTRGV School of Medicine
Advising is key to student success and supports the teaching and learning mission of UTRGV School of Medicine. Our main goal is to make advising an integral part of students' learning experiences, through one-on-one, student-centered advising in a supportive and caring environment. Our Guiding Principles share our philosophy and vision of our advising system.
- As educators, academic advisors support student learning and development, facilitate academic exploration, help students connect their learning to themselves and their world
- Advisors help students reflect on their educational experiences and engage them in identifying, developing and realizing their plans, goals and possible careers
- Advisors create an open, respectful and supportive environment in which students can explore and consider their experiences, feelings, values, aptitudes and aspirations
- Advisors teach students about degree requirements, institutional policies and procedures, and university structure and culture, and refer them to campus support services
- Advisors support student academic success and help students make reasonable and appropriate progress toward degree completion
- Advisors help students identify the knowledge, understanding and skills they are gaining through their medical school experience by supporting the development of students' critical thinking, integrative and communication skills, and linking students' learning to the workplace
- Advisors encourage students to participate in out-of-class learning experiences, engage with and serve local and global communities to solve real-world problems, and integrate in-class and out-of-class learning
- Advisors encourage students to consider their own cultural backgrounds; to develop intercultural knowledge and respect for differences
- Advisors help students become effective decision-makers who accept responsibility for their actions and the impact of their choices on their lives and their communities
- Advisors foster in students a commitment to lifelong learning — and model that commitment in their own work and life
