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Advising for Continuing Students

Academic advising doesn’t stop after your first semester; it’s an ongoing partnership designed to help you stay on track, explore new opportunities and make informed decisions as you move toward graduation and/or transfer.

As a continuing student, your advisor can help you:

  • Review your progress toward degree or certificate completion
  • Update your academic and transfer plans each semester
  • Discuss changes in your goals, interests, or program of study
  • Explore career pathways or transfer options that align with your next steps
  • Connect with campus resources to support your success

We recommend meeting with your advisor at least once each semester to ensure you’re meeting requirements and taking advantage of available opportunities.

Before Your Advising Appointment

To make the most of your meeting, take a few minutes to prepare. Before your advising appointment:

Review Your Degree Progress

Log in to myACCESS and open Student Planning to review your degree progress. Check which requirements you’ve completed and what courses you still need.

Verify Your Program of Study

In Student Planning, make sure your Program of Study (major) is accurate. If it’s incorrect or you’re considering a change, let your advisor know as this may change your program requirements.

Check Your Course History and Grades

Review your completed courses and grades to see how your academic performance aligns with your goals and program requirements.

Reflect on Your Goals

Think about your educational and career plans. Are you preparing to transfer, earn a degree or certificate, or explore a new program? Sharing these updates helps your advisor tailor their guidance.

Explore Upcoming Course Offerings

Use Student Planning to browse upcoming semester courses. Identify classes you’re interested in or need to stay on track toward graduation or transfer.

Prepare Your Questions

Write down any questions about degree requirements, transfer options, course sequencing, or campus resources so you can discuss them during your appointment.

Update Your Contact Information

Make sure your email and phone number are current in your student account so your advisor can share follow-up information after your meeting. If you need to update this, contact Registration Services.

Schedule an Appointment

Schedule your advising appointment through your advisor’s Starfish link or by contacting the Advising Services office at (630)942-2259 or stop by Student Services Center (SSC) 3301.

Contact Information

Advising Services
Student Services Center (SSC), Room 3301

Phone: (630) 942-2259
advising@cod.edu

Main Campus Hours:

  • Monday and Tuesday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Wednesday and Thursday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.