Abstract
To preserve the genuine function of the California Master Plan of Higher Education, an examination of the transfer process is crucial. The use of community colleges to begin a four-year baccalaureate education is becoming increasingly popular, and the need for an efficient transfer system is tremendously necessary. However, a clear articulation agreement between institutions and effective guidance of students by advisors at both the sending and receiving institutions are factors contributing to a seamless transfer. Academic advisors hold an important role in the successful transfer of students who choose to begin their baccalaureate degrees at a two-year college. Effective advisors are able to help students avoid transfer barriers and enhance student achievement. Quality advising generates satisfaction and success between both the student and the college. The purpose of this research was to understand the role of academic advisors in two-year and four-year institutions and how adequately the advisors in each setting serve the needs of transfer students. The specific questions addressed were: What is the general function and importance of advising in the progress of college students from two-year to four-year institutions? To what extent do the students themselves initiate interactions to meet these needs? What type of evaluation/assessment tools do the two-year and fouryear institutions use to track students' satisfaction and effectiveness rates of the advising services? Two methods of research collection were employed in this study. Digital surveys were distributed to students who transferred from Gold River College to CSU, Midland during the Fall 2007 and Spring 2008 semesters. Survey questions explored the students' experiences with their advisors at Gold River College as well as CSU, Midland. In addition, interviews were conducted with GRC and CSU, Midland advising representatives to discuss their institution policies and best practices of academic advising offered to students pursuing vertical transfers. The data found in this study reinforced the critical role of academic advisors within the transfer process. Although students' responses reflected a positive experience with their advisors, the need to further study the impact of advising on a successful transfer is justified through the results of this research.