January 29, 2024
Exploratory Advising Center being established
The Division of Academic Success and Student Affairs announces the establishment of an Exploratory Advising Center that will serve the undecided or open option student population.
This decision was reached in collaboration with colleagues in the College of Arts and Sciences and in response to key findings and action steps outlined in the K-State Student Success Playbook. Specifically, this change will start with new incoming students in fall 2024. Current open option students will remain with their current open option advisors in the College of Arts and Sciences until they choose a major. Two academic advisor positions will be created to advise exploratory students and students in transition from one major to another. These positions will provide key support as students explore their academic options and career objectives.
National data suggests that upward of 70% of all college students change their major at least once between initial enrollment and graduation. Additionally, moving to a clear centralized resource for students exploring their academic and career aspirations will enable prospective and current students to see themselves at K-State and recognize that K-State has dedicated advisors to assist them finding their path to success and ultimately graduation.
When hired, the exploratory advisors will be housed in the Berney Family Welcome Center and work in collaboration with the Pre-Professional Advising Center. During this transition, Pamela Erickson, executive director of academic advising, and Jared Meitler, director of pre-professional advising center, will be working closely with staff and faculty in the College of Arts and Sciences to ensure a smooth transition.