Academic Advising
At Christopher Newport University, learning isn’t just about textbooks and lectures—it’s about exploring, connecting, and applying what you learn outside the classroom. From classroom discussions to hands-on experiences, every moment at CNU helps shape your academic journey.
Your academic advisor is a faculty member (could be one of your professors!) who is here to help you set goals, plan your courses, and make the most of every opportunity. But this is your journey—so be Curious, Aware, and Agile as you discover new possibilities and build your future!
You’re not just asking, “What job will this get me?” You’re asking bigger questions about life, meaning, and how your education can shape you into a person of character. That kind of curiosity leads to awareness.
You start seeing the bigger picture - how different disciplines connect, how others see the world, how systems work, and how you can move through them with purpose. This awareness gives you the perspective and confidence to adapt and grow.
You become nimble—able to solve problems, shift priorities, and make smart decisions, even when things are unclear. You apply what you learn to real life, with resilience and clarity.
You’re not following a script, you’re building a map. You choose the path, embrace the process, and shape your impact. This is your time to show up, belong, explore, and grow.
Our liberal learning core helps you explore different subjects, think in new ways, and build skills that employers value. Choosing the right classes and understanding how they fit together is key to telling your academic story. Your advisors can guide you, but you're in charge of your path! Familiarize yourself with essential resources (see below!), create relationships with faculty and staff, talk to your fellow Captains, and ask lots of questions to stay on track!
Your faculty advisors are here to support you, but you drive your education. You’ll work with two faculty advisors throughout your college experience.
- Core Advisor (Years 1-2): Helps you navigate the core liberal learning curriculum, adjust to college life, and stay on track. They hold your registration PIN for your first few semesters.
- Our Signing Day tradition (typically spring of your second year) is where you officially declare your major and connect with faculty in your chosen field. This event initiates the transition of sophomores to their major advisors.
- Major Advisor (Years 3-4): Guides you through your major requirements and ensures you meet graduation goals. They hold your registration PIN for upperclassman course selection.
👉 Transfer Students: Your advisor depends on your incoming credits. If applicable, you’re also invited to participate on Signing Day!
Find your assigned advisor in CNULive > Mobile Friendly Student Profile and contact them directly.
Good communication = good preparation! Stay professional in emails, be on time, and come prepared to your meetings.
Advising happens during the busiest times of the semester (Fall: October | Spring: March). Be Curious. Aware. Agile. with these key steps:
✅ Stay informed: Check the Registrar's website for registration dates (based on earned credit hours) and resources.
👉Transfer Students: Confirm any anticipated transfer credits have been processed by our Transfer Center.This is VERY important!
✅ Reach out: Schedule an advising meeting and bring your preferred & multiple alternate/backup course plans.
👉In your first semester? Be on the lookout for First Semester Academic & Acclimation Mentors (FAM) in your residence hall or our Peer Mentors with the Center for Student Success.
✅ Be prepared: Use DegreeWorks, CNULive, and the Undergraduate Catalog to complete your Registration Planning Form. Having multiple sets of alternate/backup options keeps you on track!
Keep an open mind about your classes! A liberal learning curriculum is all about branching out and diversifying your education. That class outside of your comfort zone might be your favorite!
Hannah Dickson, ‘27
Registration isn’t as stressful as you think it will be - just be sure to plan ahead, GET YOUR PIN, and stay organized. It will be a breeze!
Cleopatra Abbott, ‘25
Your academic journey and self-exploration won’t be linear and that’s okay! Don’t be afraid of plans changing; it always works out!
Audrey Lihos, ‘25
