JMC Student Handbook 2009-2010.pub - Columbian College of Arts ...

Advising
I
n the freshman year, each student is assigned a Columbian College of Arts and Sciences academic
advisor. The academic advisor will work with students from matriculation to graduation to help
them navigate the general GW requirements for the degree. See the CCAS advising website for more
information: http://columbian.gwu.edu/undergraduate/advising
In the sophomore year, students are assigned a faculty advisor in the
School of Media and Public Affairs. Faculty advisors assist with SMPA
major requirements, provide mentoring, and work with students as
they consider post-graduate plans.
The best advising happens when faculty and students work together
to chart an appropriate course through the requirements of the
major. Students are encouraged to visit with their faculty advisor once
a semester.
Although the faculty advisors make every effort to provide timely
and accurate information through advising, the ultimate
responsibility for assuring steady progress toward the degree rests
with the student.
Students should be aware of two benchmark points in their undergraduate careers which require that
they initiate a review of their progress:
In the junior year, the academic advisor in the Columbian College prepares a "Balance Sheet"
summarizing the remaining requirements a student must meet to graduate. It provides a good
roadmap for a student’s remaining time on campus. A student should request a balance sheet if they
have not received one by the end of the junior year.
At the beginning of the senior year, a student should file an "Application to Graduate." This initiates an
additional review of the record, as well as assuring that the student’s name will appear on a variety of
lists related to graduation activities. The necessary form is available from the Columbian College
Advising Center in Phillips 107.
Career Advising & Placement Services
T
he GW Career Center offers additional career advising and placement services to students at every
stage of their SMPA experience. Students can receive assistance in finding -time a part job
(including Federal Work Study), internships, co-ops, and full-time jobs. The career center’s “FREE” (Find
the Right Experience & Employment) program offers students comprehensive career guidance
throughout their four years at GW. Students are also encouraged to consult with their faculty advisors,
who may also know of internship or employment opportunities.
Email: Phone:
Main: gwcarctr@gwu.edu Main: 202.994.6495
Federal Work Study: fws@gwu.edu Career Resource Room: 202.994.8629
Cooperative Education: gwcoop@gwu.edu Student Employment: 202.994.8046
On Campus Recruiting/Employer Relations: ocr@gwu.edu Employer Relations: 202.994.8633