DD got her assigned advisor today. He is new to the school (20 years at another school) and a music director. Wondering what role an advisor plays and will having a new, non-academic advisor affect her in a negative way?
Thanks.
I expect the role varies from school to school, but generally I wouldn’t think it is a problem. The advisor is more about personal connection than anything else. That he has 20 years experience suggests to me he knows what to do.
At kiddo’s school the advisory group meets once a week and then there are one on one meetings - the advisor takes the kid out for smoothies or something. They are a touch point for the school to make sure the kid is doing ok, and give basic guidance for courses and extracurriculars. And social adjustment. They also serve as a point person for the parent to contact.
Kiddo lucked out and has a really solid relationship with the same advisor all four years. He trusts her advice and will go to her with personal issues. She will have him over for dinner and provides a safe haven when he needs it. She lets me know if there is something to know. I am the mom mothership, and she is the mom satellite.
It does vary by school but usually the advisory will have a group meeting every week and kids can request one on one meetings as well. The advisor is also the person parents should typically email first if they are concerned or have a question.
In terms of having a new and non academic advisor I don’t think it will matter. In fact, it might be even better as the advisor might be more willing to see things from the students pov vs towing the school line on everything.
At Groton the deans and the college counseling office review course choices so there is a back up system if the advisor isn’t helping a student choose appropriate courses.
3 kids, 3 different experiences with advisors. The one who got an administrator new to the school had a transformative relationship. That advisor had a huge, positive impact on that son. Changed his life, and often knew my son better than we parents did. The other 2 kids had ok but not life changing experiences.
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