Which option best describes when to consult an academic advisor?

• A. Only During the First Year
• B. Only After Graduation
• C. Before Each Term's Course Registration to Review Requirements and Plan the Path
• D. Never; Self-Guided Planning Is Sufficient

Answer: (C)

Consulting an academic advisor before each term’s course registration centers on keeping your degree plan current and realistic. Advisors review your degree audit, confirm which courses count toward the major, general education, and electives, check prerequisites, and help you sequence courses so you graduate on time. This proactive planning lets you adjust for catalog changes, course availability, and changes in your interests or goals, ensuring you choose classes that build toward your path rather than taking courses in isolation. Limiting advising to the first year misses ongoing opportunities to fine-tune your plan; waiting until after graduation is too late to ensure you meet all requirements; and planning entirely on your own risks missing prerequisites, creating scheduling conflicts, or misaligned credits. So, you should meet with an academic advisor before each term’s registration to review requirements and plan the path.