Learn about the majors offered at the college. In order to help students choose majors, you have to know what majors are offered and what's involved in earning each of the degrees.
Learn about the general studies offered at the college. Many students who don't declare majors as freshmen are considered General Studies students. They take general courses until their junior years when they declare a major and move into specialized classes.
Find out what types of courses transfer credits from other colleges and universities. Students who come to the college as transfer students or those who take college credit courses while in high school will need to know which classes will count toward their degrees.
Get to know your advisees. Knowing more about their personal lives and personalities will help you understand why they are interested in certain majors and which majors are best suited to their personalities and skills.
Be available. Keep your office hours and appointments so your advisees know they can count on you to be there when they need them. This will also help make sure that your advisees will consult you before making decisions about their majors and college careers.
Listen attentively to your advisees. Ultimately, the students make the decisions about their majors and career path. By listening carefully to them, you can be sure to have all the information you need to help guide them on the best track for them.
Make referrals when needed. If there's another professor or advisor who can give your advisee better or more in-depth information, help your student get in touch with that person. This helps ensure that your advisee can make the best decision.