Degree Timeline
LAIS advisement, like most other degrees, follows a student’s individual situation. Below is a timeline of topics that arise as well as additional suggestions and resources that pertain to LAIS students. Often students need to meet with Career Services sooner than later; some students relate better to Sample Curricula than verbal suggestions etc.
Ultimately, the more students research about their opportunities as well as policies, restrictions and deadlines the greater chance of success.
Contact us any time with questions: LAIS Advisement
UNM Inquiry
Often, an LAIS advisor is the first point of contact. This conversation will help students understand admission, orientation and hold processes. It will also cover the uniqueness of the LAIS program and application.
Admitted to UNM
Students will have an Advisement hold on their account. In addition to registration and policies, this conversation will focus on the program and application requirements.
Professional Goals
Students seeking an LAIS degree require additional attention. Advisors interview students to determine what their aspirations are, what drives them, what their values are, and then suggest academic departments that relate to these interests and their professional goals.
Guiding Questions
- What do you want to do after school?
- What kind of environment do you see yourself in?
- What is your "why"?
- Why do you NOT like X, Y, Z academic studies?
- Do you see a need you want to help address?
Research the UNM Catalog
In addition to advisor recommendations, the Plan of Study – an ideal list of courses identifying all remaining credits required for graduation – comes from the catalog. Students take responsibility for the creation of this unique list and use it to register each semester.
Statement of Purpose
The Statement of Purpose is an outline of professional goal(s) and a description of focus areas within the Plan of Study that prepare LAIS students for their career goals. It should be no less than 250 words and explain the 'how' and 'why' of each individual's unique pathway through degree completion and beyond.
Career Services
CS has numerous resources for students to take advantage of: the Lobo Career Connection database, knowledge of career field needs and innovations, and help with resumé building and interviews. A Career Development Facilitator will make recommendations based on current career area trends. (form online)
Professional Resources
The vital part of designing these degrees are informational interviews with professionals practicing in the field. We recommend students speak to several people to get feedback on their ideas. (form online)
Application Draft
Ideally, students will submit a draft of their Plan of Study and their Statement of Purpose to an advisor before visiting with any Professional(s). This is the time to ensure the Plan and Statement meet program guidelines.
LAIS Admission
The complete three piece program application will be submitted via the LAIS 301 required course. The instructor will review the application and, if all items are in place, will admit the student for the nearest semester. This begins their LAIS program residency.
Changes of Plans
The Plan of Study is used as a guide and is not set in stone. Students should set up an appointment with an LAIS advisor if they have any questions about their selected coursework each semester. This ensures that students remain on track to graduate and do not vastly deviate from their original Plan of Study and Statement of Purpose.
1 Year Prior to Graduation
Upon earning 92 hours, students will receive a hold on their account reminding them to Apply to Graduate. An advisor and the student will review LoboTrax together to identify a graduation date and the hold will be removed.
Graduation Essay
Per deadlines listed here, students must submit a minimum 500 word essay describing their accomplishments, what they learned, how the LAIS program fostered their professional goals, and how they intend to proceed post graduation.
