Why is advising important?

Every student must be advised and cleared for registration prior to enrolling for the following semester. Advisors will help students make good decisions about their academic program and will assist them in making long term academic plans.

How do I know who my advisor is?

New students will receive a letter in the mail with their advisor’s name and contact information. Continuing students will find their advisor’s name listed on the "biographical" information page of their Student Information Management webpage. They may also call (314) 719-3654 or e-mail Academicadvising@fontbonne.edu at any time.

How do I get in touch with my advisor?

At any point in the semester, students may e-mail or call to schedule an appointment, or stop in during office hours. Shortly before Advising Week, most advisors post a sign up sheet on their office door for appointments.

What is Advising Week?

During the week prior to early registration, advisors clear their schedules in order to meet with their advisees to plan course schedules for the following semester. Some advisors may begin advising earlier than this, but all will have time available for students during this week. Advising Week usually occurs one month prior to the end of the current term. Check the calendar found in the Course Schedule for specific dates.

What are the GER or “gold sheets”?

General Education Requirements are the core liberal arts credits that must be successfully completed by all Fontbonne students in order to qualify for graduation. Each student’s curriculum will consist of these GER in addition to his or her major requirements (and, if applicable, minor, concentration, or certification requirements) and any remaining electives. Every student must earn at least 128 credits, in addition to completing each of these requirements, in order to graduate. Lists of the GER are available in the Academic Affairs office in Ryan 202 and in the Academic Advising office in Ryan 103.

How do I decide on a major?

You should consider a number of questions, including what your skills and interests are, what your future plans may be, and what areas of study you tend to do well in. Talk to your advisor, a career counselor, instructors of courses you enjoy, and professors in departments that may interest you. The Director of Academic Advising, Elizabeth Fogt, is happy to meet with any student who has questions or needs help considering this decision.

How do I declare or change my major?

Pick up a declaration form at the Registrar’s Office in Ryan Hall 204, obtain the necessary signatures, and return the form to the Registrar’s Office. You will be assigned a new faculty advisor in your department and you should start to get to know this person right away.

What is major approval?

Many majors require a specific GPA either in major coursework or overall academic work. After you declare your major you must apply for major approval, usually in the second semester of the sophomore year, to ensure that you are a good candidate for your chosen program. Pick up this form in the Registrar’s Office.