Students sitting with advisor.

Academic Advising

Academic advising is an important part of student success in the WSU Data Analytics program. Advisors support prospective and current students – including high school students exploring the major, first-year students who are undecided, and transfer students joining from other institutions.

Advising helps you navigate the university, plan your degree, learn about resources, and make informed choices that support your academic and career goals.

What to Expect From Academic Advising

All WSU students meet with their advisor each semester to plan courses, review progress, and release their advising hold.

Your advisor will help you:

  • Build a clear academic “roadmap” to graduation
  • Understand degree requirements and available program options
  • Explore internships, research opportunities, and study abroad
  • Connect with campus resources and support services
  • Understand policies, timelines, and university systems

Advisors guide and advocate for you, but they are also a bridge to other important resources across the university.

Your Responsibilities as a Student

Students are ultimately responsible for meeting all degree and graduation requirements. This includes:

  • Knowing your program requirements
  • Planning your schedule each semester with your advisor
  • Tracking your progress in myWSU
  • Monitoring deadlines and university policies
  • Check your WSU email regularly for advisor updates

Connect with us

Jill Shafer

Data Analytics Academic Advisor
jill.shafer@wsu.edu

Advises for Everett and Pullman campus

Becky Jewell

Data Analytics Academic Advisor
becky.jewell@wsu.edu

Advises for Global campus

Lacy Bonilla

Data Analytics Academic Advisor
lacy.bonilla@wsu.edu

Advises for Global campus

Herbie Fogt

Data Analytics Academic Advisor
herbie.fogt@wsu.edu

Advises for Global campus

Ted Fordyce

Academic Coordinator
tfordyce@wsu.edu

Advises for Vancouver campus

Preparing for Your Advising Appointment

Before Your Meeting

  • Review your Academic Progress Report in myWSU
  • Draft a tentative course plan for next semester
  • Prepare your questions, goals, and course ideas
  • Resolve any registration holds

Day of Your Meeting

  • Arrive on time
  • Be focused and prepared
  • For virtual meetings, log in on a computer, not a phone
  • Email your advisor at least 24 hours in advance if you need to reschedule

Our Commitment to You

Data Analytics advisors are dedicated to supporting you throughout your academic journey—helping you plan effectively, access resources, stay on track for graduation, and prepare for your future career.