Student Success And Advising Center FAQ

FAQ

What is the Student Success and Advising Center, and how can it help me?

The Student Success and Advising Center is here to help you make the most of your college experience. For most students with 0-59 applied credits, our advisors can help you understand your degree requirements, plan your courses, prepare for registration, explore academic options, and connect you with campus resources and support services. Whether you have a quick question or need help planning your next steps, we’re here to support your success. 

Will I have a dedicated advisor?

Yes! Students whose majors are advised by the Center are assigned a dedicated advisor who will get to know their academic goals and provide personalized support throughout their college journey. Your advisor is a resource you can turn to each semester for guidance with course planning, degree requirements, registration, and academic support/referrals. 

Does the Center advise students in every major?

The Center advises most majors. However, students in Dental Hygiene, Medical Laboratory Science, and Professional Pilot are advised directly by their departments, and first-year Nursing students transition to the Nursing Department after their first year. If you're unsure where to start, visit Find Your Advisor or contact us for assistance.

Am I advised by the Center?

Most undergraduate students with 0-59 applied credits are advised by the Student Success and Advising Center. However, some academic programs have their own advising structure. To find out who you should meet with, visit Find Your Advisor for guidance.

How do I find and contact my assigned advisor?

Visit Find Your Advisor and select your major to find your advisor's name and contact information.

How do I book an advising appointment?

To schedule an advising appointment, select Book an Appointment on the Center’s website and follow the instructions for your assigned advisor. If you’re unsure who your assigned advisor is, visit Find Your Advisor for guidance.

When should I meet with my advisor?

Plan to meet with your advisor at least once each semester and before registration to stay on track with your academic goals. You should also reach out whenever you need guidance, especially if you’re struggling academically, considering a change to your schedule or major, or unsure about your next steps. Your advisor is here to help you navigate your college experience.

What can I expect from an advising appointment?

During your advising appointment, you and your advisor will review your academic progress, discuss your goals, and identify your next steps. To make the most of your appointment, come prepared by reviewing your DegreeWorks and checking for any holds that may affect registration or your academic plans. 

What if my assigned advisor is unavailable or I am unsure whom to contact?

If your assigned advisor is unavailable or you’re unsure who to contact, reach out to the Student Success and Advising Center. A team member can answer your questions, provide guidance, or connect you with the appropriate advisor or campus resource. 

What are earned credits and why do they matter for advising?

Earned credits are credits you have successfully completed and received credit for. This may include college courses, transfer credits, AP credits, and college credits earned while in high school. Your earned credit total helps determine your advising needs and which resources are available to you.

Keep in mind that courses you are currently taking do not count as earned credits until final grades are posted.

What happens as I approach 60 applied credits?

If you are expected to reach 60 applied credits by the end of the semester, you will be connected with the advising contact for your major to help ensure a smooth transition.

If you finish the semester with fewer than 60 applied credits, the Student Success and Advising Center will continue to be your advising home.

What if I am completing an associate degree in Liberal Arts or Criminal Justice?

If you are pursuing an associate degree in Liberal Arts or Criminal Justice, the Student Success and Advising Center will remain your advising home through completion of your degree—even if you earn more than 60 credits. 

Can I still connect with professors in my major?

Yes! Your professors are an important resource beyond the classroom. They can provide guidance on careers, internships, research opportunities, graduate school, and opportunities within your field. Building relationships with faculty can also help you explore your interests and make informed decisions about your academic and career goals. 

What if I have a hold or registration problem?

Start by checking your OASIS account to see if you have any holds that may be affecting your registration. If you have a hold or run into a registration issue, contact your advisor for guidance. Your advisor can help you understand the issue and determine the appropriate next steps. 

What if I am struggling in a course or considering changing my major?

Reach out to your advisor early. Whether you’re having difficulty in a course or thinking about changing your major, your advisor can help you explore your options, develop an academic plan, and connect you with campus resources and support services. 

What is FYE 101?

First Year Experience (FYE) 101 is a one-credit course that is a graduation requirement for all first-time, full-time students. The course helps you get familiar with campus resources, strengthen your academic skills, and develop professional skills that can support your success throughout college. 

Still could use some help? Email us and we will get back to you shortly.

FAQ

Can I participate in my student’s advising appointment? 

Academic advising appointments are conducted individually between the student and their advisor to build independence and ownership of their education. In accordance with student privacy laws (FERPA), advisors cannot discuss academic records without written consent. Families are welcome to contact the Center with general questions regarding college policies and campus resources.

How can I best support my student?

You can support your student by encouraging them to:
• Meet with their assigned advisor every semester.
• Check their Farmingdale email account regularly.
• Stay aware of key academic dates.
• Ask for help early.

What should I do if I have concerns about my student? 

We share your goal of seeing your student thrive. If you notice they are feeling overwhelmed or facing academic hurdles, encourage them to connect directly with their advisor or instructors as a first step. You are also welcome to reach out to the Center. Our team can answer general questions, explain college policies, and connect you with campus support resources.

Still could use some help? Email us and we will get back to you shortly.

FAQ

How does centralized advising work alongside faculty and department support?

The Student Success and Advising Center and academic departments play complementary roles in supporting student success. The Center assists with academic planning, course selection, registration, and referrals to campus resources. Faculty and departments provide discipline-specific guidance, mentoring, research and internship opportunities, and career support within the student’s field. 

How are Center advisors connected with academic departments?

Academic departments are paired with dedicated Center advisors who work closely with faculty and department staff to coordinate student support, share information, and help students navigate their academic programs. This partnership helps ensure students receive consistent guidance throughout their college experience. 

When will students begin working with their dedicated Center advisor?

Following the Fall 2026 add/drop period, students in the Center’s advising population will receive communication introducing them to their dedicated Center advisor and providing information about how to connect with them. 

How will alternate PINs work under the new advising model?

Departments that currently use alternate PINs will continue to do so. No new alternate PIN requirements will be introduced for departments that do not currently use them. 

How should I refer a student or share an academic concern?

Faculty and staff can direct students to Find Your Advisor or Book an Appointment to connect with their advisor. For additional support, faculty and staff may also make a warm referral by contacting the student’s assigned Center advisor directly. 

How will students transition to department-based advising?

As students approach 60 applied credits, they will be connected with the advising contact in their academic department. This transition will help ensure a smooth shift to department-based advising for future registration cycles. 

Still Have Questions?

Contact the Student Success and Advising Center or visit Find Your Advisor to connect with the appropriate advisor.

Still could use some help? Email us and we will get back to you shortly.

 

Student Success and Advising Center

Greenley Library, Lower Level

934-420-5160
advisement@farmingdale.edu

Monday-Friday 9:00am-5:00pm

Note: Liberal Arts & Sciences (LAS) students are advised in Memorial Hall, Room 100.

Last Modified 10/9/26