Martin W. Totzke

Advising Philosophy of Marty Totzke

My student advising philosophy may be best described as student-centered advocacy with a bit of playing Devil's Advocate thrown into the mix. An institution of higher education exists for the purpose of developing and improving the knowledge, skills and abilities of students. This is a particularly important responsibility for a 2-year institution, given the compressed time period allotted to prepare the students to enter the job market.

 

"Devil's Advocate" advising is allowing a student to make decisions and then review the decision in terms of critical thinking. Frequently the decisions are appropriate but the student is uncertain how he/she arrived at that decision. By discussing the decision and my assuming the role of Devil's Advocate, the student is given the opportunity to examine the process used to make the decision.

 

"Devil's Advocate" advising assists in guiding students in their course selections. Occasionally students look for the easiest course load. At those times, the advice they need to receive is how the more difficult or intensive course will affect their employability and, more importantly, their success in the work place. Sometimes this may even include encouraging a student to rethink a career choice.

 

I am committed to the belief that students need to know when they are making inappropriate decisions or their logic is faulty. Being the "Devil's Advocate" in this situation is assisting them to identify their error and accept responsibility for their behavior. Advocacy occurs in assisting them in identifying how to put the problem behind them, grow from the experience and move forward toward their personal and professional goals.

 

I believe that students decide when they need to see an advisor. An advisor must be available at those times, put other work aside, and attend to the student's need. Obviously, this is the ideal and not always possible. Nevertheless, students should never leave without the opportunity to discuss the issue that brought them to the advisor in the first place. Should the issue be compelling it needs to be dealt with immediately. An appointment can be made to discuss "routine" matters. The student should never leave feeling that they, or their issues, are perceived as unimportant.

 

The role of an advisor is one of public trust. Fox Valley Technical College has entrusted me with the academic welfare of students. I am honored that the College has granted me the privilege of assisting students to successfully complete their educational experience at Fox Valley Technical College.

Martin W. Totzke

Chair, Criminal Justice Department

Fox Valley Technical College

Appleton, Wisconsin

mtotzke@new.rr.com