Beyond Course Selection: How University of Lynchburg's Academic Advising and Coaching Empowers Student Success

By: Rafi Islam | Multimedia Editor, The Critograph

Photo of Academic Advising. Source: University of Lynchburg Website

At the University of Lynchburg, academic advising is playing a very important role in student success and college experience. The academic advising not only provides students with advice on course selection and major selection advice but also empowers students from first year through graduation, fostering both academic achievement and personal & professional growth.

For faculty advisors like Dr. Alisha Marciano, chair of the psychology department, this means providing crucial support in three areas. “First, it ensures students are aware of their major’s requirements so they can stay on track,” she says. Advisors also help students explore career options and plan ahead. Finally, they provide vital connections for references, graduate school, and internships or jobs.

The approach to help students from academics to career path is core of the University of Lynchburg’s advising. Johnny Francis, the assistant director of academic advising, sees the positive impact daily. He notes that even difficult conversations about academic paths can lead to great benefits for students. He says the ultimate goal is to “open possibilities for students to discover their goals and show them more ways than one.”

The usefulness of this academic advising model can be reflected in student experiences. Niloy Dhar, an international junior student shared that his advisor was essential in helping him adjust to the university. He described his advisor as “like a friend” who provided not only course planning but also emotional support, making him feel situated in his new environment.

Sarah Wood, a junior student, also said she visits her advisor quite often. “My advisor helps me with everything from course selection and my academic pathway to choosing the right internships and career path,” Wood said. “The advising experience helps in every way possible.”

Francis believes a student’s effort is the main ingredient for success. He often tells them, “Showing up is half the battle. Hard work is 40%, inherent ability is 5%, and luck is the rest.” At Lynchburg, advisors are there to ensure that hard work leads to a shining future for the students and a successful journey.