College of Agriculture and Life Sciences formalizes student advising standard of care

Academic advising often happens quietly behind the scenes, but its impact shapes every step of a student’s journey, from navigating challenges to reaching graduation. At the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, advisors play a central role in helping students succeed academically and feel connected to the college community.

Now, College leaders are elevating that work by formalizing a shared standard of care, a framework that reflects the consistency, professionalism and student-centered purpose advisors in the College bring to their roles every day.

Developed through a collaborative effort led by Jennifer Rhinesmith-Carranza, Ph.D., director of advising for the College, with support from leadership, including Mary Bryk, Ph.D., associate dean for academic affairs, the new standard captures the College’s culture of mentorship, innovation and support in a shared framework.

At its core, the framework creates a shared language around advising practices. By turning values into action, the College aims to strengthen student success, support advisor well-being and highlight the role advising plays in shaping the Aggie experience.

It highlights seven focus areas, including clear communication, individualized guidance, authenticity and a growth-focused mindset, helping advisors connect students with campus resources, navigate degree requirements and leave appointments with a clear next step.

Outlining expectations and commitment

For students and families, the written standard clarifies what they can expect from advising. For advisors, it reinforces collaboration across departments and advising hubs, the College’s centralized advising structure that groups advisors by related majors and locations.

 This framework reflects a broader commitment to student success while positioning the College as a leader in advising practice.

“While our advisors have always demonstrated these values, putting our standard of care into writing helps us align around a common vision,” said Rhinesmith-Carranza. “It shows students and families that professionalism and student-centered support guide everything we do.”

Turning values into daily practice

This latest step emphasizes that advising goes beyond course selection. Advising in the College is intentionally personal, grounded in connection, mentorship and care. The standard of care highlights creativity, hospitality and authenticity alongside accountability and trust-building, reflecting the human side of advising that students experience every day.

Advisors are encouraged to build meaningful relationships, support long-term goals and empower students to take ownership of their academic paths. Clear expectations around responsiveness, communication and holistic support help ensure students receive a consistent advising experience regardless of major or location.

Rhinesmith-Carranza noted that initiatives such as advising learning communities and professional development opportunities help advisors refine their approach and collaborate on new strategies to support various student populations.

By formalizing the standard, the College reinforces a culture of continuous learning among advisors. Rhinesmith-Carranza said this commitment benefits not only advisors but also students who receive more intentional guidance.

“Advising is one of the most powerful ways we influence student success,” Rhinesmith-Carranza said. “When we invest in our advisors and give them a shared framework, it strengthens the experience for every student we serve.”