Academic Advising and Course Planning
The following is an outline of the process that will take place during your appointment with a counselor.

Information Gathering

You will be asked questions about your educational background, goals and interests. It is important that you share pertinent information so your counselor can assist you in making academic and career choices.

Identify Possible Options and Alternatives

The more information you share with your counselor, the better the options will be for you! Following this information gathering, your counselor will help you generate:

• Options for programs of study
• Class selections
• Career Options

While your counselor will be able to explain college policies and procedures, we recommend you familiarize yourself further with the college Catalog and the student handbook. These college references contain policies and procedures that will help you plan your academic career.

Decision-Making

Decision-making is often the hardest part of the advising session! The role of the counselor is to provide you with the proper information for you to make informed decisions. As it is important that you sort through the various options presented to you during your counseling appointment, be sure to:

• Ask questions
• Participate in the counseling/advising process
• Consider the relationship between your program of study and your career goal
• Consider the relationship between the classes you are choosing and your transfer goal

Next Steps

Counselors suggest action steps you must take to complete the advising process. To help you be successful they may recommend you:

• Gather more information about a program of study
• Talk to faculty members about educational experiences and related careers
• Use academic resources, such as tutoring
• Follow a curriculum guide for transfer programs
• Become familiar with the requirements of the college you plan to transfer to

***Remember: Counselors…

• explain the options and choices you have at Muskegon Community College.
• make suggestions for classes to take based on the program of study you select, your placement test scores, and information you share.
• inform you of course requirements for your selected program of study.
• support you when you are confused, afraid and disappointed and celebrate with you when you achieve your goals.

Counselors do not…

• make choices for you.
• register your classes for you.
• take responsibility for your education.