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Sarah Kardash probably gets to meet more ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Allison students than most anyone else. As the University's academic advisor, her door is always open to students seeking academic guidance.

"Probably one of the most common things I see is students coming in to seek a better understanding of the specific requirements they need to graduate and how to stay on track for graduation," she says.

Kardash, who earned a Bachelor of Arts in Gender and Women's Studies at Trent University, has seen her role grow and evolve since she first came to ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Allison nine years ago.

"When I started, the position was part-time and I was working only with new, incoming students," she says. "I think the primary reason why the position has changed so much is because of the demand for academic advising from students."

Kardash now works with students in all programs, from incoming students through to graduating students.

"My role is to provide students with assistance and guidance in academic decision-making, as well as to provide information, answer questions, and clarify program and degree requirements," she says. "I also help students develop a study plan and make referrals to other services and resources on campus."

Although all of the pertinent information is available in the University's academic calendar, Kardash says it's not always easy to interpret.

"It's a pretty dense document and I'm one of the few people who enjoys reading it," she says with a laugh.

Kardash says most students can benefit from academic advising at one point or another, whether they are undecided on what to choose for their major or minor, need help with course selection, are struggling academically, or have concerns about academic performance or standing.

"Students can come see me anytime they have any kind of academic question," she says. "Sometimes we have a one-on-one meeting, sometimes it is a quick thing I can answer over e-mail."

Although Kardash didn't set out to become an academic advisor, she says she's grown to love the job — so much so that she has begun working toward a certificate in academic advising.

"I like supporting students and being a resource to help them navigate university," she says. "And sometimes students are dealing with serious things that are affecting their academics — loss, mental health challenges, the transition to university, figuring out how to study, time management. Working with them reminds me of how complex it can be to be human."

Book an appointment with Sarah Kardash by e-mailing advisor@mta.ca or book online at mta.ca/advising. Appointments are available Monday to Friday.