New Year, New Semester, New Goals: Connect with Your Success Network for a Strong Start to 2025

Advising & Mentoring 

At Drake, all first and second-year students, as well as transfer students, are paired with an Advising Specialist and Faculty Mentor to guide them through their academic advising and mentor experience. Junior and senior students continue to receive support from Faculty Advisors as well as staff from their respective college or school office. 

Students typically hear from their Advising Specialist and college/school staff through email outreach at key times during the semester:

• Before the start of each semester 
• About three to four weeks into the semester (typically following the first exams)
• At midterm 
• Before the end of the semester

Faculty Advisors and Mentors hold weekly office hours and utilize email communication to connect regularly with students. These communications serve as easy opportunities for students to connect with faculty and staff. Students can reply to an email or stop by during open office hours to ask questions or seek guidance.  

Encourage Your Student to Ask for Help 

If your student is struggling with coursework, time management, involvement, finances, or stress, please encourage them to take advantage of their Starfish Success Network. This platform allows students to schedule appointments with a variety of support services, including:  

• Academic advising and mentoring
• Access & Success
• Career Services
• Financial Aid
• And more!  

Supporting your student's well-being and academic success is what we are here to do! Let them know they don't have to navigate these challenges alone.  

Looking Ahead to Course Registration  

Believe it or not, it’s already time for students to start thinking about course registration for Summer 2025 and Fall 2025. The schedule of classes will be available by early to mid-March, and this is a great time for students to begin reviewing course options. For tips on a smooth registration experience, be sure to review the November 2024 Parent and Families Newsletter, where we shared strategies to help your student plan ahead!