Welcome to the Appalachian State University General Studies Academic Advising Center. You have just begun what will be an exciting time for you. 

Remember when you were a college student? Those feelings of uncertainty, curiosity, and downright fear? You weren’t sure you were capable of doing the work, you wondered if you would like your roommate, you were sure you would get lost and you didn’t even want to think about having to do your laundry. The students you will meet have all those concerns and more. 

You will be one of the first adult contacts for students as they enter Appalachian. They will look to you to put them at ease, allay their fears, and help them understand part of what it means to be a college student. It's a big task, and we know you will enjoy the journey. 

This handbook is designed to help you learn about new students, their needs, and where to find answers to some of the questions they commonly ask. Along with your black notebook this will be a valuable tool to help you get started doing Core Curriculum advising. The longer you work as advisor the more you will discover that there is always more to learn. Keeping up with majors, special programs, changes, and requirements is quite a task. Don't expect yourself to remember it all! There are plenty of people who would like to help you. Contact someone in the advising center or in other offices on campus anytime you have questions. We may not know the answer, but since we've had lots of experience asking questions, too, we can usually help you find the answer. 

Most of all ...... enjoy yourself. You will find that the relationships you develop with the students and other advisors are very rewarding.