The College Academic Advising Office provides student-centered support for undergraduates to explore their individual academic and co-curricular interests and plan a path to graduation through a rigorous liberal arts education. Our staff assists students in self-reflection and making meaning of their UChicago experience, in addition to navigating University policies and connecting to campus resources.
Every student is assigned an academic adviser: a full-time professional who supports undergraduates in pursuing their academic interests and designing a program of study leading to the degree. Through one-on-one advising appointments, workshops, and campus partnerships, advisers help students clarify their goals, select courses, and make informed decisions about majors, minors, and co-curricular opportunities.
During the first year, advisers guide students in selecting general education (i.e., Core) courses, balancing academic and extracurricular commitments, and exploring possible majors. As students progress, advisers provide continued support in planning a coherent curriculum, declaring a major, and staying on track for graduation. They also help connect students with resources to identify internships, faculty research opportunities, and other experiences that enrich their academic journey.
Advisers serve as a primary resource and consistent point of contact throughout a student’s time in the College. Students are encouraged to inform their adviser of academic challenges, health concerns, or other unforeseen circumstances that may affect their studies. Advisers work collaboratively with students to address concerns and, when appropriate, coordinate with administrators and campus partners to ensure additional support.
By fostering students’ intellectual curiosity and agency, the goal of the College Academic Advising Office is to equip all students to thrive in the distinctive academic environment of the University of Chicago and to graduate with clarity, confidence, and purpose.