Academic Advising, Counseling and Health Services

ACADEMIC ADVISING PROGRAM

The College will maintain an Advising Program to assist students with progression through the program.  Each student will have a faculty advisor.  It is expected that undergraduate students will remain with the assigned advisor throughout the program.  Graduate students may elect to change their advisor after they declare their area of concentration.

 

The student and advisor will meet at least once each semester to review progression toward completion of the academic requirements.  Final responsibility for the completion of academic requirements rests with the student.

 

GUIDELINE
Students should consult advisors during posted office hours or by appointment. Students are encouraged to seek advisor’s assistance with:

1.	Appropriate course selection for fulfillment of graduation requirements.
2.	Interpretation of institutional policies and procedures.
3.	Any situation which interferes with academic success.
4.	Information regarding community resources and programs.
5.	Progression toward career goals.

PROCEDURE
Students who wish to select a new advisor must:

1.	Consult with the Associate Dean.
2.	Associate Dean will consult with the Assistant Dean of Student Affairs and the current advisor.
3.	Associate Dean will reassign advisors as deemed appropriate.

ADVISEE'S RESPONSIBILITIES
The student is responsible for the requirements, procedures, and policies set forth in the College Catalog and Student Handbook. Advisors and administrative staff may assist the student by explaining requirements, procedures, and policies, but the ultimate responsibility for compliance rests with the student. In addition, the advisee has the following responsibilities to:

1.	Be prepared by having the necessary forms and a tentative plan for semester course work.
2.	Clarify pertinent personal values and goals in advance of the sessions with the advisor.
3.	Prepare a list of questions prior to the advising session.
4.	Cooperate with academic advisor regarding class scheduling.
5.	Accept responsibility for academic and personal decisions.
6.	Keep personal copies of schedules and other important information regarding academic progress (e.g., drop/add forms).
7.	Become acquainted with the faculty advisor assigned to the advisee.
8.	Take the initiative to contact the advisor as needed.

COUNSELING SERVICES
In accordance with the College's philosophy and objectives, counseling referrals are provided for students who request assistance with personal development. The services are under the supervision of the Director of Student Services. The College has a counseling psychologist who is available to faculty and students for consultation. These services are free of charge and available to all students. If extended counseling is necessary, the student may be referred to a professional counselor/psychologist and the student would be responsible for costs incurred.

Effective Fall, 2003 students will be able to access the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), from OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center. This program provides confidential, professional assessment to help employees and students resolve personal problems which may affect their health, personal well-being, or day-to-day performance. This benefit is extended to students to use the same as any employee may use it. For additional information, please see the Student Services Office.

HEALTH SERVICES PROGRAM

The student health service is maintained under the supervision of the Assistant Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs. The College does not provide any medication or therapeutic agents.

 

College students are expected to comply with the following health policies:

 

1. All students assume financial responsibility for their health services. Students must carry health insurance and show proof of insurance to the Assistant Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs.

 

2. In addition to meeting the specific health requirements for admission, an annual TB screening is required for all students. Additional examination and tests will be required if requested by a clinical or government agency. A yearly dental examination is strongly encouraged.

 

3. The employee health nurse will assist the student in securing an appointment with a physician, if requested. The service of the family physician is encouraged.

 

4. Any student receiving treatment for an illness or injury not deemed to be directly related to his/her educational endeavors or clinical experience responsible for the cost of such treatment or service.

 

5. Any student who has been absent for three or more days due to injury or illness (other than minor illness such as cold or flu) must have health care provider's consent to return to the College. Students with any infectious illness or fever must be cleared through Employee Health Services before going to a clinical experience. A student with an infectious illness must be on antibiotics for 24 hours before going to a clinical experience.

 

6. Students may obtain a copy of their health records for by submitting a written request

with a $5.00 fee to the Assistant Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs .

PHYSICAL ASSESSMENT, IMMUNIZATIONS, AND LAB TESTS
Occupational Health will provide a physical assessment, immunizations, and lab tests to admitted students at a discounted rate. See the Occupational Health or Student Services for further information.