Advising and Orienting Transfer Students

A major research university recently redesigned the new transfer student orientation program to provide more one-on-one attention to incoming transfer students. Concurrently, a new student seminar course specifically for transfer students was being implemented. These combined efforts were submitted to the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA) as a best practice for new transfer students and have yielded positive results in relation to students' connection to campus and satisfaction with orientation/advising. Additionally, analysis of both grade point average and first semester retention ofstudents enrolled in the new transfer student advising seminar have been higher than those not enrolled. The implementation of these practices, as well as their analyses, begin the discussion upon which further research efforts pertaining to transfer student transitions can be explored.

Voices from the Leadership of Academic Advising

In this article, we present the results of interviews with past presidents of NACADA (the National ACademic ADvising Association), who responded to nine questions about the strengths, achievements, challenges, and obstacles faced during their presidencies. The presidents also had an opportunity to discuss a critical incident, people who were helpful, and the possible future for advisors and the association. The academic advising association grew out of a need felt by administrators and advisors throughout the country. These interviews suggest that NACADA has flourished because it was the right idea at the right time and headed by selfless leaders who championed its cause.

Results of a National Survey on Technology in Academic Advising

The results of a fall 2002 national survey conducted by the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA) in cooperation with the NACADA Technology in Advising Commission concerning the uses of technology in academic advising are discussed. Summaries of the multiple choice responses and open-ended questions as well as recommendations for the development or modification of NACADA programs and services are provided.