College Media Network

The Forum

Commentary

Monday, May 11, 2009 10:35 a.m.

Staff Editorial: The second step

The Hatchet’s Editorial Board discusses the merits of the year old GPS program, and reminds the University that while GPS does have good aspects it cannot make up for a truly lasting fix to CCAS’ advising system.

As the old adage goes, the first step to solving any problem is admitting there is one. When it comes to advising, GW has long acknowledged that there is a serious problem. One year ago, the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences released a report outlining issues within the current advising system. It now seems that GW doesn’t know how to take the second step.

2 Comments

  1. M. Hong says:

    My son is leaving GW and 2 scholarships due to the lack of guidance here. It is a shame.

    If you (GW) don’t work harder to get these kids on the right track early on, you will continue to lose them even though they are straight A students and have their heads screwed on straight. They STILL need guidance to figure out what they are doing.

    Pity the kids that are having other problems their freshman year and need a LOT of extra hand holding. They are just SOL….and flunk out. What a slam to their self-esteem!!

    Time to get your act together. Good Luck!!

  2. Logan says:

    I’ve never spoken with an adviser at GW beyond what I was required to do for my freshman year “advising” course. That is to say, I think I’ve spoken to an adviser twice, and never on any substantive issues. It’s so easy to figure these things out on your own.

    The university has all necessary information online. Websites list major requirements, GCRs, and available classes. The office of the registrar’s website can provide you with all the information you need on academics at GW.

    The onus is on students to find that information, instead of sitting around whining (or having their parents whine) about how they haven’t been “put on track”. If you’re not on track, it’s your own damn fault.

    It’s not surprising, seeing how GW students suffer from a lack of personal responsibility, that the default solution to any problem is to have GW do it for you.

    Take control of your education. All the resources are there. If you’re not willing to take advantage of them, that’s not anyone’s fault but your own.

Respond

required

required, will not be published