Academic vs. career advisors: Understanding the difference
College comes with decisions and moments of uncertainty. At KU, students can leverage a number of on-campus resources for support. Career and academic advisors guide Jayhawks through college and help prepare them for life after graduation. However, there’s common confusion among students about whom to reach out to and when.
Academic advisors
What they do:
Academic advisors help students navigate their degree and academic interests. KU has more than 100 advisors serving students across different programs, pairing each student to an advisor geared to their area of study. Advisors guide students through the enrollment process to ensure they meet their requirements and are on track for graduation.
When you should contact them:
You should connect with your advisor when you are looking to enroll in your classes, change your major, fit in the chance to study aboard, apply for future schooling and any course questions.
How to make an appointment:
You can schedule an appointment by visiting JayhawkGPS.ku.edu or by calling 785-864-7871. Same-day appointment services are also available in a limited capacity from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. At the time of your meeting, check in at the Academic Services Advising Suite, 1160 Capitol Federal Hall.
Career advisors:
What they do:
Career advisors focus on students' lives after graduation. Their goal is to provide individualized guidance to help students explore their career growth opportunities and identify what steps to take to reach their goals to gain an advantage in the completive job market.
When you should contact them:
You should contact a career advisor when you are looking for resume assistance, interview preparation, networking advice, salary negotiation and much more to help you feel confident and prepared to enter the workforce.
How to make an appointment:
To talk with an advisor, request an appointment through JayhawkGPS.ku.edu, call 785-864-5591 or visit Capitol Federal Hall, Room 1130 to begin your career guidance.
“It is important to utilize both academic advising and career advising because finding an advocate for your success can look different for each student’s case,” said Stephanie Schmitz, director of Business Career Services. “You need classes, yes, but you also need a future-minded strategy.”
The KU School of Business has a variety of resources for business students to use as they progress in their education. From career advisors to area industry mentors to curriculum coordinators and lecturers, Business Jayhawks can ensure all of their career development questions are answered.
“I wish students knew just how much is available because of the tuition they pay. If you’re not sure if something exists to support you related to any challenge on or off campus, come ask,” Schmitz said. “There simply is no problem too big, and no problem too small, to share with someone who truly loves students.”
Learn more and connect with an academic advisor or career advisor at jayhawkgps.ku.edu.