As class scheduling books for summer and fall begin to appear around The University of Memphis campus, students are planning and preparing for the upcoming semester -- a process that includes visiting their academic advisers.
According to University of Memphis policy, most students must obtain registration clearance from an adviser to register. Non-degree-seeking students are not required to be advised before they register, but they are strongly encouraged to see an adviser.
Some students at The U of M said they think advising should be available to them, but don't feel they should have to be advised if they know what courses they need to take.
"Students should not be required to see an adviser until after their sophomore year," said Laura DePouw, a freshman communications major. "When you are taking general education classes, there is not a whole lot they can do."
Carl Chando, supervisor of the Center for Personal Development and Academic Counseling Unit coordinator, said he understands students' concerns.
"Students see advising as a burden because it is required, but we see it as a positive activity," Chando said.
According to Chando, the advisers at the ACU answer questions about class loads, class sequences, requirements and the reasons behind them, as well as some personal issues.
Chando said the ACU works hard to personalize advice to each student's needs and aspirations. He said advisers look at a student's educational background, strengths, weaknesses and present situation.
According to Chando, students are encouraged to call to make appointments with their personal advisers, but if they have questions, they may visit his office.
In fact, students complained one of the biggest problems with advising is the accessibility of their advisers -- or lack thereof.
"While I was trying to get ready for this spring semester, I called to set up an appointment with my adviser, and she couldn't see me until January 12," said sophomore Frank Renner, whose major is undecided.
"You have to call in advance," freshman criminal justice major Matt Ingram said. "They're pretty busy."
However, students interviewed said when they're available, their advisers usually give them the answers they need.
"I am glad we are required to be advised before each semester," said Rachel Harpell, an undecided sophomore. "I don't want to be taking the wrong classes."
Ingram said, "They sit down with you and get an idea of what you have done and what you need to do. When you're a freshman, picking your classes can be overwhelming."
Chando advises students to make advising appointments early, so they can register as soon as possible. Regular registration for students begins April 9.
"The amount of time we spend with a student varies," Chando said. "We schedule appointments every 30 minutes, but it is not uncommon to spend an hour in an advising session."
Kim Gardner, an advising trainee in the English department, said she too has concerns when it comes to advising.
"Students have to take responsibility for their own education," Gardner said. "The department doesn't have enough technology to do intense advising."
Carol Ferguson, academic adviser for the Department of Engineering, said she thinks her department has a very good system of advising, in which advisers are close to the students and keep track of what each student is doing.
"I have an open door policy," Ferguson said. "If it is possible, I try not to schedule appointments. I think good advising is very important. There's a lot more to it than picking classes."
