This advising syllabus is intended to guide you as you work towards earning your degree at SF State. Originally, an SF State Advising Syllabus was created for all students at the university. Additions to that syllabus have been made here to provide more information for majors in LCA. The syllabus highlights important advising-related knowledge and outlines the steps you can take to be successful.
SF State’s Advising Philosophy
Academic advising is inextricably linked with student learning, success and degree completion. In partnership, classroom instruction and academic advising assist students in weaving together the strands of personal and intellectual learning which are the marks of a true higher education. Through skillful academic advising students are guided toward the timely completion of their studies as well as the identification and fulfillment of academic, career and personal goals. (Excerpt from SF State’s Academic Advising Policy, #S96-191)
Pivotal Points for Advising
Students should seek and obtain academic advising on a regular basis throughout their academic careers. Minimally, advising revolves around the following five key pivotal points: (1) when the student enters the university, either as a first-time freshman or transfer student, (2) when the student enters or changes the major, minor, or program, (3) if and when the student experiences academic difficulty, including academic probation, (4) when the student moves into upper division standing and closer to graduation and (5) as the student prepares to graduate and move beyond their studies at San Francisco State University. (Excerpt from SF State’s Academic Advising Policy, #S96-191). Some programs in LCA like their majors to consult with them each semester as they select courses for the next term. Check with your major to see what is recommended.
Advising—Key Knowledge and Steps
The following is a list of key knowledge and steps intended to guide you as you work towards earning your SF State degree. Though it is organized by class level based on a 4-year plan, it should be seen as a guide that is flexible and can be modified to help you meet your graduation goals and timelines. In addition to the class-level recommendations, we have also outlined key knowledge and actions you should consider throughout your time at SF State, referred to as Every Semester Checklist. We recommend that students and advisors review the checklist regularly. A more concise list is provided in the top six goals listed below:
Top Six Advising Goals for Every Semester
Discuss
Discuss your education plan with a faculty or professional advisor and update your Degree Planner.
Check
Check your Student Center for any holds and financial information.
Engage
Engage with faculty in at least two office hours or their electronic equivalent.
Save
Save one or more samples of your best work.
Every Semester Checklist
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Check your Degree Progress Report and SF State unofficial transcript every semester so that you are aware of your academic progress. All requirements must be marked as green checks or yellow diamonds on your DPR in order to be preliminary cleared to graduate. To earn the degree, all requirements will require final green check marks.
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Be familiar with campus advising resources, including knowing where to go for advising, and how to make advising appointments.
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Be familiar with campus advising tools (Degree Progress Report, Degree Planner, Gator Scheduler, Student Center, etc.) and utilize these tools to understand your academic requirements and to plan for future semesters.
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Regularly check your financial account for information about tuition/fees and payment deadlines. Be knowledgeable about campus financial resources (Bursar’s Office, Financial Aid, Academic Works, etc.). If applying for financial aid, complete the FAFSA on time.
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Know where to find important academic calendar deadlines (drop/add, CR/NC, withdrawal, registration, financial aid, fee payment, etc.) and meet them.
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Develop relationships with your faculty by attending at least two office hours (per semester). Faculty can serve as mentors, getting you connected with internships, research opportunities, and providing letters of recommendation.
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Save examples of your best work with commentary about why you value the work and what skills/knowledge it demonstrates.
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Be mindful to resolve any grading concerns (like outstanding Report Delayed (RD) grades or Incomplete (I) grades).
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Locate and reference the Bulletin when needed for important information related to campus policies/procedures and academic requirements.
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Be knowledgeable about university resources and utilize them to aid in your academic success.
Freshmen will:
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Review the Top Six Goals and Every Semester Checklist for additional recommendations needed at all class levels.
Accessing Advising, Advising Tools and Campus Resources
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Become familiar with campus advising resources: Students in all majors can receive advising at the University Advising Center (UAC). Majors in the College of Liberal & Creative Arts (LCA) can also see advising from faculty in their major.
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Access advising from your assigned UAC advisor by attending at least one workshop, event, or advising appointment/drop-in time per semester (and as needed).
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Identify campus/community activities and student clubs/organizations that are of interest to you.
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Be able to access the Degree Progress Report (DPR) and identify General Education and university graduation requirements.
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Use the Degree Planner to plan courses for your second and third semesters.
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Access, navigate, and utilize the information and tools located in the Student Center.
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Know how to use class schedule tools (Gator Scheduler, Campus Solutions class schedule search, and/or the online class schedule) to plan and register for courses.
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Participate in CURE (College Undergraduate Research Experience in LCA).
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Explore scholarships opportunities using Academic Works and apply for at least one scholarship. Your application may require that you write a statement describing your educational goals. If you need help with your application, seek support from an academic advisor or a career counselor.
Majors, Minor, Certificates & Complementary Studies
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(If declared in a major) review and learn the lower division requirements for the major and understand when they should be taken – this information can be found in the Bulletin.
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(If undeclared or questioning your major) know how to access advising support to assist with major exploration and use lower division general education courses to explore major options.
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Know how to access major advising if you have specific major-related questions that cannot be answered by your advisor in the Undergraduate Advising Center.
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Consider taking one or more courses for your Complementary Studies requirement (a twelve-unit requirement to complete) if you are earning a B.A. in the College of Liberal & Creative Arts. There are many ways to complete this requirement, including a minor, certificate, or twelve units in a language other than English. Discuss your Complementary Studies plan with an advisor.
Courses
By the end of the freshmen year, complete:
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General Education courses in the following areas: Oral Communication(A1), Written Communication (A2), Critical Thinking (A3), and Quantitative Reasoning (B4)
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Area E, first year experience (note: Written Communication/A2 is a prerequisite to Area E so many students take Area E in their second semester or second year)
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General Education courses that overlap with the major you are considering (if this is an option - not all majors have courses that also count in GE)
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The necessary number units to stay on track for your intended graduation date (i.e., 30 units to achieve sophomore status by the end of your first year). Many students take summer school classes in order to complete 30 units in the first year.
Career, Personal and Post-Graduation
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Understand and adapt to the differences between high school and college.
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Begin to understand how your college experience connects to your future, including possible career and personal goals. See additional career planning recommendations by class level on the Career Services and Leadership Development website. Consider applying to the Gator Leadership Circle (GLC), a career exploration opportunity open only to first or second-year students.
Sophomores will:
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Review the Top Six Goals and Every Semester Checklist for additional recommendations needed at all class levels.
Accessing Advising, Advising Tools and Campus Resources
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Access advising support from the Undergraduate Advising Center and faculty advisors in your major. Seek support from your advisors if you need help with any of the items in the list below.
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Review your major roadmap and your Degree Progress Report (DPR); and select courses using your Degree Planner for your 4th, 5th, and 6th semesters (through your junior year).
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Connect with a club, organization, or professional association related to your interests.
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Explore studying abroad and meet with an advisor in the Office of International Programs, if interested. You will also need approval from an academic advisor and your department chair to use study abroad courses towards degree requirements.
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Explore scholarships opportunities using Academic Works and apply for at least one scholarship. Your application may require that you write a statement describing your educational goals. If you need help with your application, seek support from an academic advisor or a career counselor.
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Participate in CURE (College Undergraduate Research Experience in LCA).
Majors, Minors, Certificates & Complementary Studies
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You should declare or affirm your major by the end of your sophomore year.
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Explore possible minor and certificate options and consider adding a minor or certificate to your educational plans.
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Take at least 3 units of Complementary Studies (a twelve-unit requirement to complete) if you are earning a B.A. in the College of Liberal & Creative Arts. There are many ways to complete this requirement, including a minor, certificate, twelve units in a language other than English, or a double major. Discuss your Complementary Studies plan with an advisor.
Courses
By the end of the sophomore year, complete:
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Area E, first year experience (if not completed in the first year)
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Lower division General Education requirements, including the Area F/Ethnic Studies requirement unless taking in the upper division
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Lower division requirements or prerequisites for your major
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At least one SF State Studies requirement
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The necessary number units to stay on track for your intended graduation date (i.e., 60 units to achieve junior status by the end of your 2nd year). Consider taking summer school courses.
Career, Personal and Post-Graduation Development
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Explore options for participating with faculty on research (e.g. Marcus Research Assistant), community service or a creative project. At the beginning of the year, identify typical deadlines (if applicable) and put them in your calendar.
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Review how your college experience connects to your future, including possible career and personal goals. See additional career planning recommendations by class level on the Career Services and Leadership Development website. If not already a member, consider applying to the Gator Leadership Circle (GLC), a career exploration opportunity open only to first or second-year students.
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Attend at least one career planning workshop offered by Career Services and Leadership Development.
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Consult with your major department, Career Services and Leadership Development, and/or the Institute for Civic and Community Engagement regarding internships that would interest you and plan to enroll in an internship in your sophomore, junior and/or senior years. LCA maintains a list of internship courses in the College.
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If considering graduate school, consulting with a faculty member about preparing for graduate study (i.e., in a discipline that interests you, teaching credential, law school, medical school, etc.)
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See additional career planning recommendations by class level on the Career Services and Leadership Development website.
Juniors will:
- Review the Top Six Goals and Every Semester Checklist for additional recommendations needed at all class levels.
Accessing Advising, Advising Tools and Campus Resources
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Access advising support from the Undergraduate Advising Center and faculty advisors in your major. Seek support from your advisors if you need help with any of the items in the list below.
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(For new transfer students) Review your Transfer Credit Report and Degree Progress Report in the summer/early fall to understand how your transfer courses apply to SF State requirements.
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Participate in CURE (College Undergraduate Research Experience in LCA).
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Explore scholarships opportunities using Academic Works and apply for at least one scholarship. Your application may require that you write a statement describing your educational goals. If you need help with your application, seek support from an academic advisor or a career counselor.
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Review your major roadmaps and use the Degree Planner to plan your next four semesters, including the completion of:
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Major/minor requirements.
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Upper division GE requirements and any remaining lower division GE.
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University requirements (120 units, 30 units upper division, residency units, SF State Studies, Complementary Studies [if needed], etc.).
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Adjustments to your course sequence if you are interested in pursuing a Master’s through the SF Scholars (blended) program. An academic advisor can provide valuable information regarding appropriate courses to take in your junior and senior years for this unique accelerated program!
Majors, Minors, Certificates & Complementary Studies
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Whether you are a new transfer student or a continuing student, you should now have affirmed your choice of major and your minor and/or certificate (if desired).
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Meet with advisors for each of your educational programs (major, minor, certificate) to be sure you are on track with your requirements. Understand the sequencing of the courses in your educational programs so that you can effectively plan and meet required prerequisites on time.
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(For new transfer students) During your first semester, if you have questions about how your transfer coursework applies to requirements in your major, minor, or certificate meet with advisors in your educational programs (major, minor, certificate). Substitutions or exceptions may need to be filed to apply transfer coursework to your SF State major, minor, or certificate requirements. These substitutions/exceptions are usually reviewed and submitted by faculty advisors through the Advisor Request System (ARS). Once processed, the substitutions or exceptions will show as meeting major, minor, or certificate requirements on your Degree Progress Report (DPR).
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Complete 3-6 units of Complementary Studies (a twelve-unit requirement to complete) if you are earning a B.A. in the College of Liberal & Creative Arts. There are many ways to complete this requirement, including a minor, certificate, twelve units in a language other than English, or a double major. Discuss your Complementary Studies plan with an advisor.
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Talk with a faculty member about honors’ societies and professional organizations related to your fields of study.
Courses
By the end of the junior year, complete:
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GWAR (Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement) course (if your major roadmap suggests it in your junior year). Please note this is often required in the first semester of your junior year.
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Key major courses, such as core classes and upper division courses, that serve as prerequisites to other major courses.
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All lower division General Education requirements, if not already completed at SF State or prior to transfer.
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All lower division requirements or prerequisites for your major, if not already completed at SF State or prior to transfer.
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The necessary number units to stay on track for your intended graduation date (i.e., 90 units to achieve senior status by the end of your 3rd year). Consider taking summer school courses.
Career, Personal and Post-Graduation Development
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(For new transfer students) - Understand and adapt to the differences between community college (or your transfer institution) and San Francisco State.
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Utilize campus resources such as Career Services and Leadership Development to explore future educational and professional goals after graduation (i.e. employment or graduate study) and investigate paths to achieve those goals.
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Explore options for participating with faculty on research (e.g. Marcus Research Assistant), community service or a creative project. At the beginning of the year, identify typical deadlines (if applicable) and put them in your calendar.
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If you have not already done so, start working on your portfolio (an organized presentation of your best work).
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Identify and meet with faculty advisors in your chosen academic/career field to discuss post-graduation goals and potential letters of recommendation.
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If you are interested in graduate school, explore whether the program that interests you has an SF Scholars (blended) program for students who want “an accelerated pathway to a graduate degree. Students in this program pursue a bachelor’s and master’s degree simultaneously”.
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Participate in experiential learning through internships, community service learning, civic engagement opportunities, service learning, and/or undergraduate research (e.g., CURE (College Undergraduate Research Experience in LCA)).
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See additional career planning recommendations by class level on the Career Services and Leadership Development website. Consider applying to the President's Leadership Fellows Program (PLFP) which supports career exploration, networking, and internship possibilities for junior, seniors, and graduate students.
Seniors will:
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Review the Top Six Goals and Every Semester Checklist for additional recommendations needed at all class levels.
Accessing Advising, Advising Tools and Campus Resources
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Access advising support from the Undergraduate Advising Center and faculty advisors in your major. Seek support from your advisors if you need help with any of the items in the list below.
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Review the Degree Progress Report (DPR) to confirm that all graduation requirements are complete or will be complete by your expected graduation date. On the DPR, pay particular attention to any requirements that are marked with a red box (this means that they are still outstanding). All requirements must be marked as green checks or yellow diamonds on your DPR in order to be preliminary cleared to graduate. To earn the degree, all requirements must have green check marks to signal successful completion.
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Check in with an advisor at the Undergraduate Advising Center if you have questions about General Education or University requirements that display as unmet.
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Check in with an advisor from your major, minor, or certificate if you have questions about unmet requirements in those areas.
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Review your SF State transcript and resolve any Report Delayed (RD) grades or Incomplete (I) grades as these will prevent your graduation.
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Participate in CURE (College Undergraduate Research Experience in LCA).
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Review the road map for your major and finalize your Degree Planner, planning for your final semester(s).
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Learn about the process for applying to graduate by attending a graduation workshop, accessing individualized advising, and reviewing the graduation resources on the Registrar’s website.
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A semester before you plan to graduate, apply for graduation (see deadlines)! Be sure to confirm that all your requirements will be met by your intended graduation date. Your DPR should show all requirements as green checks or yellow diamonds.
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Volunteer to be a leader in a club, organization, or professional association related to your interests.
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Apply for honor and professional societies for which you are qualified.
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Explore scholarships opportunities using Academic Works for any scholarship awarded to seniors or to students accepted into graduate programs. Your application may require that you write a statement describing your educational goals. If you need help with your application, seek support from an academic advisor or a career counselor.
Majors, Minors, Certificates & Complementary Studies
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Complete your major including any required capstone course.
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Complete any minors or certificates in which you are declared.
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Complete your Complementary Studies (a twelve-unit requirement to complete) if you are earning a B.A. in the College of Liberal & Creative Arts. There are many ways to complete this requirement, including a minor, certificate, twelve units in a language other than English, or a double major. Discuss your Complementary Studies plan with an advisor.
Courses
By the end of the senior year, complete:
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Any remaining upper division General Education requirements.
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Any remaining requirements in your major, minor, or certificate.
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Any remaining SF State Studies requirements.
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Any remaining units of Complementary Studies for BA degrees (Exceptions: this is not required if you are pursuing a BS degree, a double major, or are planning on completing a minor or certificate).
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Any remaining residency or upper division units.
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One or two internship courses and/or courses with service-learning components, if possible.
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Any capstone or senior-year courses required in your major, minor, or certificate
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A minimum of 120 units; if you have elective units to spare, take your passions
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All senior-year coursework and finish strong, seeking academic support (as needed) to successfully graduate when planned. Consider taking summer school courses to complete 120 units and all other requirements.
Career, Personal and Post-Graduation Development
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Be able to articulate a post-graduation plan as well as the skills and knowledge acquired throughout your college career. This will help you to effectively market yourself to potential employers or graduate schools.
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Utilize Career Services and Leadership Development to prepare for graduate school applications and/or applying for career opportunities.
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Ask faculty for letters of recommendation for graduate study and/or employment; provide those faculty with a copy of your resume and samples of your best work.
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Add to your network list, names and contact information for other students, faculty and staff with whom you would like to remain in contact.
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Explore options for participating with faculty on research (e.g. Marcus Research Assistant), community service or a creative project. At the beginning of the year, identify typical deadlines (if applicable) and put them in your calendar.
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Participate in experiential learning through internships, community service learning, civic engagement opportunities, service learning, and/or undergraduate research (e.g., CURE (College Undergraduate Research Experience in LCA)).
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Consult with graduate students in your major and alumni from your program to get advice.
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If interested, apply for graduate study (i.e., in a discipline that interests you, teaching credential, law school, medical school, etc.). Understand and follow established deadlines and procedures.
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Apply for/complete an appropriate internship and/or participate in volunteer opportunities to gain professional experience.
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Add to your portfolio, showcasing your best work.
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See additional career planning recommendations by class level on the Career Services and Leadership Development website. Consider applying to the President's Leadership Fellows Program (PLFP) which supports career exploration, networking, and internship possibilities for junior, seniors and graduate students.
Student and Advisor Responsibilities
Student Responsibilities*
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Develop strong working relationships with your advisors, using respect and inclusivity in your communications and interactions.
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Prepare ahead, check and read campus communications (texts and emails).
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Be an active participant in your advising meetings; ask questions when you have them.
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Reflect on your personal interests, skills, and goals and share them with your advisors.
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Follow through on action plans you develop with your advisors.
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Review the “Key Knowledge and Steps” every semester checklist to keep on track for successfully earning your degree!
Advisor Responsibilities*
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Develop strong working relationships with your advisees, using respect and inclusivity in your communications and interactions.
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Inform students about your advising style and expectations.
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Assist students in exploring and defining their interests, skills, and goals, empowering them to be successful.
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Remain current with the Bulletin, degree requirements, advising tools, and campus resources; be knowledgeable about campus policies, procedures, and deadlines.
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Maintain confidentiality regarding student information while following FERPA guidelines at all times.
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Help students develop action plans and provide information on appropriate campus resource referrals that can enhance their academic and/or personal experiences at SF State.
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Be familiar with the “Key Knowledge and Steps” by class level; direct students to this every semester checklist so that they can stay on track for successfully earning their degree!
*Adapted from the Undergraduate Advising Center’s first-year advising syllabus.