Ramping Up Advising and Support in the UAC
Student Events and Programs
This Spring and Summer, the UAC introduced two new signature programs. In May, we hosted “Connect with Your UAC Advisor,” a transition event for rising sophomores. This event was more than just a meet-and-greet; it was a chance for students to begin building meaningful relationships with their UAC advisor and gain a deeper understanding of the advising structure they will experience as upper-level students.
Over the summer, we kept the momentum going with a series of Zoom sessions titled: Preparing for Fall Advising & Building Authentic Faculty Relationships. These sessions provided specific tips and advice from both UAC advisors and current students on the transition to sophomore year and a new academic department. The goal of the session is to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to foster fruitful advising relationships and make the most out of their academic journey at MIT.
To stay updated on all upcoming UAC happenings, visit our Fall 2024 Events and Programs page.
First Year Assessment Findings
In May, the UAC conducted a comprehensive assessment to better understand students’ first-year advising experience and expectations for the future. The insights gathered were invaluable.
Overall, first-year students had a positive experience with their advisors. An impressive 74% of students reported that their advisor developed a meaningful relationship with them to a moderate or very great extent. Furthermore, over 83% of first-year students felt their advisors were well-versed in course selection, campus resources, and academic policies.
Looking ahead, students expressed a strong desire for academic guidance, career advice, and mentorship from their faculty advisors. Additionally, 79% of students agreed that their UAC advisor should be a key source of information about MIT resources. Interestingly, first-generation and/or low-income students had higher expectations for their advising relationships (both for their advisors and themselves), especially regarding career planning. These insights will help the UAC tailor our advising approach to best meet the needs of all students.
Launching UAC Advising for the Class of 2027
This Fall, we are excited to launch UAC Advising for members of the Class of 2027. These advising appointments are designed to supplement and complement the advising received in the student’s academic department. The initiative aims to bring consistency and enhanced support to the undergraduate advising experience.
Our plan includes strategic communication; UAC Advisors will reach out to their advisees at key, pre-designated points throughout the year. These touchpoints are designed to ensure that students receive timely and relevant support. Additionally, UAC Advisors will initiate individualized meetings to address each student’s unique needs and goals. During these meetings, students can expect to discuss a variety of topics, including short and long-term goal setting, utilizing the forthcoming Student Success Toolkit, and how to best navigate the wealth of resources available at MIT.
Why Refer a Student to the UAC?
Our team is dedicated to ensuring that every undergraduate at MIT has the support they need to succeed. Here are a few scenarios where you might direct a student to the UAC:
- If a student is unsure how to find or make a connection with their departmental advisor or needs help exploring options to switch majors, we can provide guidance. We can also assist with academic planning and understanding the nuances of MIT’s academic policies.
- For students seeking support setting academic and/or personal goals, our advisors are here to help! We will talk with students about how to connect coursework, extracurricular activities, and personal interests to support achievement of these goals.
- When students are uncertain about which MIT resource can best address their issue, we can provide a warm handoff that points them in the right direction. Starting Fall 2024 semester, the UAC will offer daily drop-in advising hours (virtual and in-person) on Mondays through Fridays between 12pm and 2pm.
If you have any questions or want to refer a student, please don’t hesitate to contact the UAC (advising@mit.edu).
— Katy Warner, UAC