YSU Academic Advising Philosophy Statement
At Youngstown State University, academic advising is a collaborative, student-centered process that empowers students to define, pursue, and achieve their educational, personal, and professional goals. Rooted in the university’s mission to foster student success and lifelong learning, our advising philosophy emphasizes holistic support from a unified advising team, welcoming engagement, and proactive guidance throughout the student journey.
We believe that effective advising:
Promotes Purposeful Exploration
Advisors guide students in exploring academic programs, career pathways, and life goals, helping them clarify their aspirations and articulate what they want out of life. We support students in developing a growth mindset that allows their values and goals to evolve throughout their educational experience.
Fosters Academic and Personal Growth
Advising is an incremental teaching and learning process. Advisors provide timely, relevant information that students can integrate into their evolving academic and personal schema. We support and advocate for students as they navigate decisions, transitions, and challenges, encouraging growth through active listening and tailored guidance.
Encourages Access and Support
We recognize and respond to the varied backgrounds, identities, and experiences of our students, ensuring that every student feels seen, heard, and supported. Advising is not a ‘one size fits all’ collaboration; it is a humanistic and respectful engagement that adapts to each student’s needs.
Integrates Academic and Career Planning
Advising at YSU bridges the gap between classroom learning and career readiness, preparing students for meaningful post-graduate success. We believe in building bridges across departments to create a cohesive support network that enhances the student experience and reflects our shared commitment to student success.
Utilizes Data-Informed Strategies
Advisors offer proactive intervention services and connect students to tailored support resources using predictive analytics, early alerts, and student feedback. While students are responsible for engaging with these services, advisors play a key role in identifying needs and facilitating access.
Builds a Culture of Continuous Engagement
Advising is not a one-time event but an ongoing relationship that evolves as students progress through their academic careers. It is a partnership that requires active participation from both advisor and student. Advisors advocate for students’ educational goals and help them develop the skills to advocate for themselves—teaching them how to ask questions, communicate needs, and express ideas.
YSU’s advising model is grounded in best practices and includes structured touchpoints from orientation through graduation. Advisors are trained professionals who collaborate with faculty, success coaches, and campus services to deliver consistent, high-quality support. Our goal is to ensure that every student—regardless of background or major—has the tools, knowledge, and confidence to thrive at YSU and beyond. (adopted February 2026)
Who is Your Academic Advisor?
Academic advising at YSU is carried out by university professionals who understand students’ needs, academic programs, and institutional policies. In most cases, students are paired with an advisor within the college that houses their chosen major.
Students participating in specialized programs may instead work with advisors in dedicated support centers. These include services for student athletes, exploratory (undecided) majors, strong start students, and those enrolled in the college credit plus program.
Students can view their academic advisor assignment in their STUDENT PROFILE in PENGUIN PORTAL. For instructions visit Student Profile | YSU.
WHO IS REQUIRED TO MEET WITH AN ADVISOR?
We encourage all YSU students to meet with their Academic Advisor at least once a semester to discuss academic goals, student success strategies, degree progress, and career paths.
The following students have registration holds on their accounts that will prevent them from registering for the upcoming term until they meet with their assigned academic advisor.
- Freshmen and Sophomores (0-59 semester hours complete)
- Students on academic warning or probation
- Student Athletes
- Post-secondary enrollment (College Credit Plus)
- First-semester transfer students
- Returning former students (readmitted)
ADVISOR’S AND ADVISEE’S RESPONSIBILITIES
Advisement is a shared commitment between the Advisor and the Advisee, with each playing an essential role in creating a productive and meaningful mentoring relationship. This collaborative effort is central to supporting student success, helping learners stay on track academically and achieve their long‑term goals.
The Advisor’s Responsibilities
- Foster a welcoming, safe space for students.
- Explain college policies, programs, and procedures clearly.
- Provide ample appointment times for student scheduling.
- Guide students in choosing courses and creating degree‑aligned academic plans.
- Support short‑ and long‑term program planning based on students’ abilities, interests, and commitments.
- Listen actively and connect students with campus support services when needed.
- Review academic performance and discuss its impact on future program options.
- Help students identify their interests, strengths, and goals and connect them to majors.
- Track academic progress and maintain accurate, updated records.
- Protect student privacy and share confidential information only with appropriate parties.
- Encourage students to take responsibility for their decisions and actions.
The Student’s Responsibilities
- Schedule an advising appointment each semester before registration.
- Know the Course Catalog, Graduation Requirements, Course Prerequisites and your Degree Progress.
- Prepare planned courses in Plan Ahead before advising meetings.
- Use campus resources to support good decision‑making.
- Ask questions and understand policies, procedures, and requirements.
- Inform your academic advisor about circumstance impacting you class attendance and/or grades.
- Follow academic deadlines.
- Keep your own copies of curriculum worksheets and official documents.
- Take responsibility for your academic decisions and progress.
- Check and read your YSU email daily
- Respond to faculty and advisor emails regarding concerns with attendance or grades
ACADEMIC ADVISING APPOINTMENT ETIQUETTE - STUDENTS
- View your Student Profile in the Penguin Portal for the name and email of your assigned academic advisor.
- Schedule your appointment early. Advising appointments fill up quickly, especially the few weeks before registration.
- Before Your Appointment
- Review your academic transcripts and Penguin Pass.
- Update your copy of your curriculum worksheet (see your academic advisor).
- Determine what requirements you still need to complete and start a list of courses you want to take for the upcoming term/semester.
- Check course prerequisites in the course catalog.
- Check the Schedule of Classes to ensure the classes are offered.
- Make a “Plan Ahead” for the upcoming term(s).
- Develop a list of questions and discussion items for your Academic Advisor.
- Complete all placement testing if applicable.
In-Person Academic Advising Appointments
- Be on time. Arriving more than 10 minutes late may require rescheduling.
- If possible, bring your laptop.
- Have your Penguin Portal account activated and remember your login.
- Make a good impression — groom yourself and dress appropriately.
- Be present. Avoid multitasking and respect your advisor.
- Turn off your cell phone and other electronic devices.
- Be an active participant. Ask questions and share thoughts.
- This is an individual appointment. Inform the advisor if a guest will attend.
Virtual Academic Advising Appointments
- Be on time. Joining more than 10 minutes late will require rescheduling.
- Use a computer with a microphone and camera — both must be on during the meeting.
- Ensure reliable internet access.
- Have your Penguin Portal account ready to access.
- Appointments accessed via phone may be cancelled.
- Troubleshoot tech issues in advance. Contact IT Help Desk at 330.941.1595.
- Know which platform (WebEX, TEAMS) will be used.
- Set up a practice meeting to get familiar with the tools and screen sharing.
- Create a professional environment. Use a virtual background if needed.
- Dress appropriately to show professionalism.
- Be present and respectful — avoid multitasking.
- Mute your microphone when not speaking to reduce background noise.
- Use the chat feature for questions or sharing information.
- This is an individual appointment. Inform the advisor if a guest will attend.
For more information visit The YSU Academic Advising Website