Health and Human Services News

The heart of academic guidance

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Missouri State University’s academic advisors shape student’s educational journeys.  

Jessica McShan, academic advisor/retention specialist for the School of Nursing, serves as a supportive guide for aspiring nurses. 

About McShan 

Beyond her role as an academic advisor, McShan brings a unique perspective shaped by her personal life.  

“I have a daughter who’s a sophomore at MSU. She’s majoring in criminology,” McShan shared. “I look at advising from a parent’s perspective as well.” 

McShan has integrated herself into the local community by joining a Springfield co-ed hockey team. As a native of Canada, this activity offers a sense of familiarity and has expanded her social circle. 

Advising philosophy 

McShan’s approach to advising goes beyond academic planning. It’s about fostering a supportive environment where students feel empowered to navigate their educational paths. 

“I’m very passionate about making the space a no-shame zone,” McShan said.  

She highlights the importance of understanding that learning is a process. Setbacks are not indicative of failure, but opportunities for growth.

Beyond advising

Moving from Canada to Missouri brought its share of cultural differences, but McShan embraced them with an open mind. She is fond of the structure of the nursing program at MSU, especially the emphasis on prerequisites in the early years.  

Her adaptability shines through as she navigates her role, from advising nursing applicants to leading initiatives like the Test for Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) study group. 

“This project means a lot to me,” McShan said. “It’s more than a study group; it brings pre-nursing students together.” 

The TEAS study group initiative aids academic preparation and cultivates leadership skills among students.  

Her commitment to student development is evident in her engagement with Showcase, Homecoming weekend, high school student tours and the Scholastic Appeals Committee. 

Collaborative spirit 

At the heart of McShan’s approach lies collaboration. As part of a dynamic advising team, she thrives on the exchange of ideas and support.  

“We enjoy collaboration and share the same goal of being student centered,” she said. 

As she continues to guide and inspire students, her commitment to create a nurturing environment remains unwavering. 

“The students here at MSU are so kind and respectful,” McShan said. “It has been so great to advise them.” 

Learn about the Student Success and Advisement Center 

Dispelling common advising myths

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Hillary Mayes, director of the MCHHS Student Success and Advisement Center (SSAC) and student success specialist, has encountered more than a few advising myths during her time here at Missouri State University.

The two biggest misconceptions Mayes has found are that advisors and advisement centers are only for students who are falling behind or for students who need help choosing their academic courses.

“The term ‘academic advisor’ is a bit of a misnomer since advisement is far more than simply helping students pick out academic courses,” she said.

The MCHHS SSAC team works hard to understand students’ unique needs and help them navigate their college experiences accordingly.

“We aim to help them connect to their programs and their program faculty in ways that will help them develop their professional interests and move closer to their professional goals,” Mayes said.

Myth

Advisement centers are only for struggling students.

Reality

Advisement centers and advising staff are here to help all students. In fact, Missouri State requires that all first- and second-year undergraduate students meet with an advisor before they can enroll in classes.

Advisors are a vital campus resource for students to help them navigate university policies, processes and procedures.

Myth

Advisors only help with course scheduling.

Reality

Although helping students create plans of study and selecting courses is an important part of the advisor/advisee relationship, it is not the only type of support provided. Advisors can often serve as a designated person on campus with whom students can feel comfortable having discussions; these discussions don’t always have to be academic in nature.

As student champions, advisors are here to celebrate with students when they are excited or to brainstorm with students if they feel conflicted. Advisors can assist with career and academic major exploration, connecting to relevant resources or offices and with personal or professional development.

Advisors also work closely with academic units and faculty, assist with marketing and recruitment, engage in professional development and provide service to the university through committee work.

Myth

Advisors can register students for their classes.

Reality

Because students are in charge of their academic experience, this responsibility resides exclusively with them. Although advisors are happy to discuss course options with students and make suggestions related to timing, course loads and modalities, students are the only ones who can register for their own classes.

Myth

Advisors provide mental health services.

Reality

This is a common misconception; the role of an advisor is often compared to the role of a counselor. Although advisors do support students and frequently discuss sensitive topics with them, they aren’t licensed mental health providers and can’t legally provide this service. If a student needs mental health services, we have wonderful resources available to them through our Counseling Center located in the Magers Health and Wellness Center.

Myth

Advisors hold appointments only when fall and spring classes are in session.

Reality

If university offices are open, staff advisors are on campus and available to meet with students. Advisors are 12-month employees, meaning they are available and willing to see students throughout all months of the year.

Explore the MCHHS Student Success and Advisement Center