Academic Advising for Cornell Students

Academic advising and course registration

One of the best things about attending a small college like Cornell is that you have a team of people invested in your success.  Your Faculty Advisor and the Academic Advising Office are here to help you navigate challenges, explore opportunities, make informed decisions, and stay on track toward your goals.

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES AS AN ADVISEEFrequently Asked Questions

Your faculty advisor

When you arrive at Cornell you will be paired with a Faculty Advisor according to your intended major or area of interest. This faculty member will serve as your mentor and guide, helping you:

  • Plan courses and track academic progress.
  • Explore majors, careers, and graduate school options.
  • Understand major and graduation requirements.
  • Connect your interests to future goals.
  • Discover internships and other experiential learning opportunities.

The Academic Advising Office

Think of us as your academic support team who works with you, your Faculty Advisor, and other people on campus to ensure your success.  We can help you:

  • Build study skills, time management, and effective academic habits.
  • Connect with tutoring, accessibility services, wellness resources, and other campus support.
  • Answer questions about registration, schedule changes, and academic policies (especially when you need a quick answer - usually you have these conversations with your Faculty Advisor.)
  • Recover from academic setbacks and get moving in the right direction again.

At the end of the day, you’re in the driver’s seat.  Our job isn’t to make decisions for you, it is to help you make informed ones and support you along the way.

Common student actions: