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Indigenous Program Researcher

Have questions? Ask an academic advisor
There may be times when you are feeling confused or overwhelmed or unclear about what you are supposed to be doing. [Academic advisors] are happy to help!

Benefits of Academic Advising

  • Get assistance in selecting courses to meet your academic and career goals

  • Learn about various majors and minors

  • Get assistance in goal setting and exploration

  • Make sure you are on track to graduate

  • Receive help with developing strategies to improve academic performance

  • Get questions answered about policies and procedures

  • Obtain referrals for campus resources and services

How Often to See an Academic Advisor

You should see an academic advisor whenever you have a question about your academic goals and choices at SFU. There may be times when you are feeling confused or overwhelmed or unclear about what you are supposed to be doing. They are happy to help!

What to Do When You Meet with an Advisor

Preparing for an appointment:

  • Bring a list of questions or concerns – This is your chance to take a lead with your appointment and use the time effectively

  • Notify them at least 24 hours in advance if you cannot attend a scheduled appointment—they want to be able to help as many students as possible.

  • Be ON TIME! – We love seeing students, but if you are late your appointment may be shortened or you may have to rebook.

During the appointment:

  • Share your goals and educational priorities i.e. do you eventually want to go to Med School? Are you curious about how to this goal?

  • Provide your advisor with accurate information about your interests and abilities

  • Ask questions if you don't understand something or need clarification – There is a lot of information to navigate through at SFU. We are more than happy to help you learn and understand the information to engage with the programs, resources and services on campus.

After the appointment:

  • Follow up on recommendations

  • Organize and retain all records and documents – Always obtain a written hard copy or electronic copy (e-copy) of your appointments.

Sample Questions to Ask an Academic Advisor

  • Can you help me plan possible majors or minors that will complement my interests?

  • Where do I stand in meeting my degree requirements?

  • What’s the difference between a major and a minor?

  • What do you think about this tentative course schedule?

  • Can you help me decide how many units I should take?

  • Can you direct me to resources and opportunities that can fit with my long-term goals?

  • Questions regarding academic difficulty, or advice regarding a course is more challenging than you had anticipated.

  • - To repeat or not to repeat a course?

  • What do I do if I am going through a difficult situation and I cannot attend my classes?

First Nations, Métis, or Inuit student?

To book an appointment please call 778-782-6929

Beyond the Blog

Indigenous Program Researcher
visibility  71
Jun 11, 2013

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“Nothing in the world can take the place of Persistence”. Through my life’s experience I can certainly attest to the truthfulness of these words.I hope lessons for others can be found in them. Hence, “Press On” friends and make your own dreams a reality! Read more about William Lindsay's journey and how they overcame life challenges. 

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Rudy Riemer/Yumk | SFU Department of First Nations Studies and Archaeology

"I grew up in Squamish BC, learning from elders and knowledgeable community members about Squamish Nation culture.  Many of my fondest memories are walking to downtown with my grandpa, sitting at my grand uncles kitchen table and going up the river to fish. During these formative years I was always careful to listen to what they had to say." 

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Although the Idle No More movement may appear to have disappeared from national media coverage it is still active in many communities including that of Simon Fraser University. On Monday, April 8th SFU students, alumni, faculty and staff came together to hold an Idle No More rally at the Burnaby campus.

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Since the Truth and Reconciliation Committee convened in 2008, reconciliation has been an issue on many minds but what is reconciliation? Here, three community members explore some of the issues and realities behind reconciliation.