Advisor-Advisee Relationship

From the beginning it is best to make every effort to develop a strong advisor-advisee relationship. It is the advisor’s responsibility to initiate efforts to both develop and maintain the advising relationship, to actively welcome the advisee into the MSPP community, and to orient the student to the advising process.  Advisees should not be left uninformed or wondering who their advisor is, or what the functions or expectations of the advising relationship are.  Advisors receive copies of all academic and field evaluations of their advisees.   If the advisee does not contact the advisor around any significant issue that may arise, it becomes the advisor’s responsibility to initiate the contact, for positive or problematic feedback.  A quick note or call around a job well done goes a long way toward cementing a supportive and valued relationship, and establishing a positive context for evaluation.  An equally alert and concerned response to a problem may strengthen and support a student in managing and growing from challenging and critical feedback.

Updated 5/8/08