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Office of Advising Services

Our mission is to provide a network of professional academic advisors who support students as they establish and realize their personal, academic, and career goals at Florida Gateway College.  The primary focus is to assist and guide students so they are retained at FGC from the time of enrollment through graduation.

The Office of Advising Services helps students meet their academic, personal, and career goals.  Academic advising is a partnership between student and academic advisor, and includes shared decision-making and responsibility. Make sure to meet with your academic advisor regularly to ensure that you are on the right track.

Our goal is to actively support students with their transition to and throughout the FGC experience. Academic
Advisors are available to assist FGC students with the following:

  • Academic and Career Exploration
  • Personal Education Plan
  • Course selection and scheduling
  • Registration assistance and troubleshooting
  • Awareness of FGC policies and procedures
  • Transfer and graduation assistance
  • Connect students with college resources

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I have an assigned advisor?

Yes, an academic advisor will be assigned during your Initial Advising appointment. You can find a listing of the FGC academic advisors along with their contact information here.

Are all of the programs at FGC advised in the Office of Advising Services?

No, some programs have advisors in other departments. Please see the Advising Guide for programs with advisors in other areas.

When should I see my academic advisor?

In order to be successful in your academic career, it is essential to stay informed, plan effectively, and engage in proactive, positive decision-making and problem-solving. Your academic advisor is here to help!

Academic advising is a partnership between student and academic advisor, and includes shared decision-making and responsibility. Make sure to meet with your academic advisor regularly to ensure that you are on the right track.

How do I schedule an appointment with my academic advisor?

Students may schedule an appointment online using the scheduling links on the Academic Advising Staff page. Student may also schedule an appointment by calling the advising office at 386-754-4222.

Can I change advisors?

Your request will be considered if you email a request to advising@smartdurak.com. Please include your name, student ID, and rationale as to why you are requesting to change advisors. Please note all advisors are here to help each student engage in positive decision-making and problem-solving throughout your program of study, and to ensure you are on the right track for graduation. Please understand these changes cannot be based on emotional decisions.

Is advising mandatory?

Advising is mandatory for your first semester at FGC. We encourage you to see your advisor each semester to make sure you are on-track to graduate.

What is the difference between dropping and withdrawing from a class?

Dropping a class completely removes it from your record. It is like you never registered for the course. The tuition and fees for the course are usually refunded if the course is dropped.

Withdrawing from a class appears as a “W” on your transcript and can impact your completion rate. The tuition and fees for the course will not be refunded, and may potentially be owed back to the entity that paid for the course. You must see your assigned Academic Advisor prior to withdrawing from a course. * You are encouraged to speak with the financial aid office prior to making a decision.

What is a prerequisite and why do I need it?

A prerequisite is a course that must be completed prior to the course in question. Prerequisite courses are important to develop a strong foundation in a content area for subsequent study.

How do I register for classes?

Access the MyFGC portal at http://my.smartdurak.com or click on MyFGC at the top of the college website www.www.smartdurak.com. Sign in using your college email address and password. If you are already signed into Microsoft Azure on your device, you will be taken directly to the portal homepage. Select “Student Self-Service”, then click “Registration”.

How do I get a copy of my schedule?

Access the MyFGC portal at http://my.smartdurak.com or click on MyFGC at the top of the college website www.www.smartdurak.com. Sign in using your college email address and password. If you are already signed into Microsoft Azure on your device, you will be taken directly to the portal homepage. Select “Student Self-Service”, then click “Student Records”, then “Class Schedule”.

What if I change my mind about taking a class?

Before the start of the term, you can make changes to your schedule without financial or academic consequences. Once the term has started, you will have financial obligations; these vary depending on when you submit your request to drop or withdraw from the course. In addition, depending on when you drop/withdraw, there may be implications for your academic progress and/or standing. Please consult the catalog for a refund and academic calendar.

I tried to register, but I have a hold. Why?

Students may incur holds for a variety of reasons, including missing documentation, an outstanding balance, or an issue regarding your academic status. To review your holds access the MyFGC portal at http://my.smartdurak.com or click on MyFGC at the top of the college website www.www.smartdurak.com . Sign in using your college email address and password. If you are already signed into Microsoft Azure on your device, you will be taken directly to the portal homepage.

Where do I find my Syllabi?

You will find it when you log into Canvas or it will be provided by your instructor in class.

How do I change my major?

You must meet with your assigned advisor, and keep in mind not all credits taken may apply to the new major.

Can I change the days/times/instructor of my classes once the term has started?

Only during the drop/add period. You may find this on the academic calendar.

When is payment due?

Prior to the term starting, please check your academic calendar.

What is the difference between an AA degree and AS degree?

The Associate in Arts (AA) degree is the 2-year transferable degree to a university. The Associate in Science (AS) degree is designed to teach a specific skill set that prepares students to enter the workforce.

What office do I contact if I need accommodations in my classes?

Accessibility Services, Building 007
Phone: 386-754-4393

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