First-Year Advising
Building the Foundation for Success
The start of any venture is full of unknowns—and college is no exception. New students are rightfully concerned with getting into the correct classes, fitting in socially, managing time effectively and navigating a new system.
- First-Year Advising
One-on-One Support Starts Here
At the University of Saint Francis, you’ll be personally supported throughout your entire college journey, starting with our specialized team of first-year advisors.
“My friends that went to larger universities only saw their advisor when it was time to schedule classes. I saw my advisor all the time—not just for curriculum advising, but for career and life advice.”
Allyson Keaffaber ’23 Commercial Lines Account Executive at MedPro Group
“I had a great experience at one of my internships, so I asked my faculty advisor about any job openings because she’s so well connected. She told me there was an opening and then reached out to the hiring manager there on my behalf. I interviewed and was hired before I even graduated!”
Kelsie Winebrenner ’19 Inpatient Dietician at DaVita Dialysis
How It Works
Year One
If you’re a first-year student or a transfer student with fewer than 30 credits, you’ll be guided by a first-year advisor who will help you:
- Enroll in classes – You’ll meet your first-year advisor and register for classes at New Student Orientation.
- Plan a timely career path – Your advisor will help you plan and maintain a timeline for degree completion, keeping your education as affordable as possible.
- Acclimate to the campus community – You’ll develop an understanding of our Catholic identity and Franciscan values through general education courses that teach respect, service, peace and justice. You’ll also be connected to an array of campus activities and service opportunities.
- Build a network of support – Your advisor will help you develop an on-campus support network and will connect you to the resources you need to succeed.
Year Two
As you start to focus more on your major field of study, you will transition to a faculty advisor who will be with you through graduation. Faculty advisors are professionals with extensive experience in their respective fields. They focus on academic success and career opportunities, connecting students to professionals in the community, internships and jobs.
Note: Students enrolled in associate degree Allied Healthcare programs (Advanced Medical Imaging, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Nursing ASN, Nursing LPN-to-ASN, Radiologic Technology, Surgical Technology and Respiratory Therapy) will be advised by program faculty starting with year one.
First-Year Advisors
Contact Us
Hours
Monday – Friday:
8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.