AUCA always strives for improvement.

October 19, 2018

As a part of overall effort to further the liberal arts education and supplement the capacity building of AUCA students, faculty and staff, the Academic Advising Office held series of workshops during the first half of October 2018.

From October 9 to October 13 advisors, peer-advisors and students had the privilege to participate in a series of workshops hosted by David Shein, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs & Dean of Studies at Bard College.  As someone with more than 25 years of experience in the area of academic advising and teaching philosophy, David Shein had a lot to share and offer.

Academic Advising

“David helped us define the role of advisers more clearly, focusing particularly on fundamentals of liberal arts advising. Throughout 3 days of workshops he navigated us in understanding and grasping the informational, conceptual and relationship aspects of our roles as advisers.  As result, now we can provide more collaborative and comprehensive advising services to students. Simply saying, we as advisers are here not only to help our students meet the rigorous academic standards, but also to facilitate the process of transition from school to college and how they can best connect their personal aspirations and educational pursuits” – concluded Gulnur Esenalieva, Director of Academic Advising Office.

In addition to covering the student-to adviserinteraction, David offered his suggestions on student-to-peer adviserinteraction. “This was particularly valuable for us, advisers and peer-advisers. Through understanding the underlining basics of such interactions, we can meet and respond to the unique needs of students and help them become successful” – added Gulnur. 

If you are seeking advising or not sure who your advisor is, the list of Department Advisors is available here. 

Workshops for students

Besides working with advising team, David offered his experience to students who were interested in applying to graduate schools. As a member of evaluation and admission commissions in various universities, Mr. Shein shared valuable insights and essential tips related to the process of applying to graduate schools. He challenged students by asking them thought provoking questions in regards to their academic plans. Many students fail to realize the importance of choosing the right program vs the right university. Choosing the right program that matches your desires and career plans is not an easy task, while being able get into that program may prove challenging. He elaborated on submitting the perfect application package and what is should include and look like before being submitted, considering timelines and having responsible approach in writing personal statements.

If you are looking for advising regarding your current studies or future academic plans, please visit Academic Advising page available here or visit Room 341.

About Academic Advising Office

Academic Advising is integral and crucial component of liberal arts educational experience. The notion of liberal arts, as represented in AUCA – undergraduate studies with smaller classes and lower student-to- teacher ratio; seeking balance between general education and individual specialization; competitive, modern, and responsive curriculum – is relatively new in Kyrgyzstan, or even in the entire Central Asian region.

Studying in a higher education institution with Western style curriculum after completing high school education based on local/national program can be difficult for high school graduates. Since AUCA offers challenging and engaging student-centered learning environment, the Office of Academic Advising was established in 2012 as a response to address above mentioned challenge.

Academic Advising Office works on creating proper linkage and ensuring smooth transition from high school graduate to undergraduate status, as well as supporting students in their academic studies and assisting them in pursuing their goals, forming and responding to challenges, both inside and outside of AUCA campus.

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