“When a word comes from the heart, it enters the heart. And when it leaves the tongue [only], it does not pass through the ears.” Moshe ibn Ezra (1055-1140)

 These words stated one thousand years ago still apply today. When people speak with each other with care, those sentiments are felt and the advice is sooner taken. This certainly holds true for the conversation between an advisor and a student. I want to focus on three aspects of the advising relationship:  honesty, accessibility and individualization.

 Individualization

Advice given to each student should be tailored to that individual. For each program there are essential courses and requisite GPA that all students must take. The individualization goes beyond that to understand what the interests and future plans of the students are and how their school experience can help them achieve these goals.

Honesty

Honesty must be present from both sides. The student should be honest and realistic both with themselves and with the advisor. An advisor must openly and honestly represent what the students’ options are. Additionally, a student must be able to trust the advisor to follow up on what was promised.

Accessible

Students should understand when and where information is available.