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Undeclared Students/Advising
General Studies (GS) advisors understand that choosing an academic program is one of the first big decisions a student faces. It should be an informed decision, so when people ask, “What’s your major?”, proudly say,
. . . I’m still deciding . . .
Undeclared is the largest program among first-semester students, but most are ready to declare a major by the second or third semester. Because this is within the time students are completing general education requirements, most are able to graduate on time with those who started in the major. To ensure a timely decision, undeclared students participate in the following program.
Developmental Advising:
Detailed advising conversations are needed to guide students in their career exploration and to evaluate the full range of majors that might suit an individual’s preferences. GS advisors participate in on-going training regarding the early requirements for majors, student organizations, and support services on campus. This allows advisors to aid students in selecting appropriate general education, prerequisites, and support courses that maximize future options; make timely referrals to support services; and recommend out-of-class experiences related to the individual’s goals. Students are an active participant in the advising process. See SDSU's Academic Advising Roles Statement.
Students meet with their academic advisor at least twice each semester. The first meeting should be early in the semester to discuss interests, goals, student services, extra-curricular activities, and generally get to know your advisor. The second meeting should be to develop academic and extra-curricular plans to continue exploring options or experiment with a tentative decision.
Coursework:
GS 101-Academic and Career Exploration
In addition, students consult with their advisor to ensure they enroll in appropriate System General Education, Institutional Graduation, and/or support courses for relevant programs. Typically students take 15-17 credits per semester.
Individual Career Counseling:
Undeclared students who are nearly decided or prefer to structure their own career exploration will benefit by working individually with one of the career counselors in Career Planning offered by the College of General Studies. Housed in Medary Commons, the college is the hub for career exploration and employment development services at SDSU. Career planning can include a number of career assessments, general academic and career information, and individual assistance at any stage of career or employment development. All current and former SDSU students may utilize the service for career counseling, enhancing job seeking skills, or locating part-time and full-time employment opportunities.
For more information about the Undeclared program, contact:
College of General Studies
(605) 688-4153
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College of General Studies
1047 Medary Avenue, Box 511 • South Dakota State University • Brookings, SD 57007
605-688-4153 • Fax: 605-688-5631