My Academic Advisor

There is no single way an advisor–advisee meeting should run, as every student’s needs are different. Below are some examples of topics you might discuss with your advisor:

Academic issues: Our aim at SEF is to create active and confident learners who can set objectives, reflect, and take ownership of their learning. So, tell us:

• How do you feel with your progress so far? 
• Do you feel you know what to do in order to progress well with your studies?   
• What do you think is your highest achievement in your studies so far?
• Is there any subject that you particularly enjoy? Why do you think is that?
• What have you learned from this module/extracurricular activity? How do you think it will help you in your career/future studies? If you had to talk about it during an interview, how would you describe it?
• What type of assessments do you prefer? Why? 
• Is there anything you feel you need help or support with?
• What would you change in your performance so far?
• Do you feel your grades reflect your effort? 
• This is how you imagined economics/finance would be before you started studying? Has your view on the subject changed? How? 

Personal welfare: We are always available to find out what is going on with you and help you make the most of your time at SEF. So, tell us: 

• How are you?
• Is there something stopping from you from fully engaging with your studies?
• Is all the material accessible to you? 
• What are the main challenges that you are facing now? Do you feel you need further support?
• How are you feeling about study/life balance now?
• Do you know what to do in case you need to submit extenuating circumstances for one of your assessments or if you need extension? 
• Are you familiar with the Fit to Sit policy? 
• Do you feel that you are engaged sufficiently with the learning material? How do you find your attendance at your lectures and classes? 

Development: We want to hear about your career and/or further education plans as well as your expectations from your studies. Advisors can provide insights, information, and guidance on these issues. We want you to think of every curricular and extracurricular activity not simply as another line in your CVs. Reflect on them and to try and figure out what you have learned from each one of them. So, tell us:  

• Did you like the event/co- and extra-curricular activity that you attended? 
• How has this knowledge/skill/activity challenged your beliefs about economics and finance? 
• How do you believe each activity will improve your career and future studies prospects? 
• Are you applying for jobs / internships / placements / postgraduate studies? 
• Have you booked an appointment with careers to have your CV and/or personal statement (also for postgraduate applications) checked?
• What do you feel are the main competencies that you have acquired so far in your studies?
• How do you find the events/activities/opportunities included in the SEF Careers Insights newsletters?
• Are you part of a society or do you take part in any other extracurricular initiative organised by the School?

If everything is ok, should I go and see my Academic Advisor? The answer is yes!