Majors. Classes. Internships. Career paths. The choices during college are many and sometimes overwhelming, but academic advising, mentorships, and a host of other higher education resources can provide you a solid support system. Get help and guidance by tapping into the resources available to you.
Academic advising
Understanding academic advising
Academic advising is not just for last-minute schedule changes or help if you’re struggling with courses. It can be a steady support system throughout your entire college career—helping you with everything from choosing a major to finding that first job after graduation. It’s a higher education resource always available to you. Advisors can answer your academic questions, but they’re also able to inform you of opportunities you may not be aware of—internships in your field, upcoming campus events, networking opportunities, etc.
Making the most of advising sessions
Set up a time to meet with an advisor, and prepare a list of things you’d like to discuss. And then, perhaps most importantly, continue the relationship by setting up subsequent meetings to talk about what goals you met and what’s next.
The power of mentorship
Benefits of mentorship in college
Finding a college mentorship can offer another support system that complements the help you receive through academic advising. Participating in a mentorship program often prompts both personal and professional growth as someone more seasoned than you offers insights, encouragement, and advice, on everything from how to make the most out of college to what skills you’ll need for a particular job.
Finding and connecting with mentors
Identifying a mentor can happen both formally or informally. Academic advising may be able to connect you with alumni working in your area of interest or even a professor in your program. But you can also find mentors through your church, organizations through which you volunteer, or even a sports league you play in. The key is finding someone who’s able to listen to you, challenge you, and hold you accountable.
Navigating college resources
Broad spectrum of support services
Beyond academic advising and college mentorships, a myriad of other support services exist to help you navigate your time in college both academically and personally. For academic resources, most colleges provide tutoring, writing and research support, and even tips on how to study more effectively. You’ll find help with interviewing, resume writing, and networking through career counseling.
Integrating resources into your academic journey
Higher education resources also include physical health support—clinics to address medical needs—as well as mental health support—trained counselors for working through things like anxiety and relationship struggles. Some programs aim to promote belonging among students with diverse racial and ethnic identities. Others exist to help international students have a great experience away from home. These services work together to offer you holistic help throughout your time in college.
Leveraging technology and online resources
A simple click on your computer or phone can also open a plethora of practical digital higher education resources you can use on your own. Some smartphone apps are designed specifically for college students wanting help organizing classwork and to-do lists. Free webinars offer you help on everything from how to write an essay to managing your time outside of the classroom. And you can even tap into a college mentorship virtually or jump into a social media group with other students working toward your major.
Engage with Bethel’s academic and support services
Bethel works hard to make sure you become the person you’re meant to be. This, of course, means in the classroom but it extends far beyond that. Bethel is a community that will help you discover your talents and the unique ways you can make a difference in the world. Numerous support systems work together to come alongside you from beginning to end, helping guide you academically, personally, and spiritually. You just need to reach out!
- For academic advising and direction: Academic Enrichment and Support Center
- For mental, emotional, behavioral, or relational help: Counseling Services
- For special accommodations or help with a disability: Office of Accessibility Resources and Services
- For help planning your career and living out your calling: Office of Career Development and Calling
- For questions about your faith, prayer, or ways you can serve: Christian Formation
