Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas is committed to a strong, effective academic advisement system, a system in which advisement goes beyond mere schedule building to assisting students to explore their potential, clarify their goals, and discover the best means of achieving those goals. The advisement function at PCCUA serves to assist and often initiate this process of self-exploration, with trained advisors who provide general information and expertise in their fields.

Advisors at PCCUA serve in at least three roles: clerical, informational, and developmental. In the routine clerical role, advisors insure that students register for courses consistent with their abilities and needs. They assist students in coping with the paperwork associated with a college education.

Advisors also serve as a source of information. Using the college catalog, the semester schedule of classes, and the Advisor's Handbook, advisors should be able to answer most questions concerning academic policies and procedures. When unable to provide needed information, advisors refer students to the office where they can obtain additional assistance.

The third role, the developmental role, is closely related to some definitions of "counselor." The ability to listen with empathy when a student voices a concern is the mark of a good advisor as well as counselor. Advisors should not hesitate, however, to refer students to other alternatives when the complexity of the students' problems warrants it. The developmental role also involves aiding students in improving their decision-making skills and assisting students in career planning decisions.