All students are encouraged to visit the Advising Office at least once a semester to ensure they are on track to meet their goals. GVPT Advisors can help with graduation planning and registration, and are great resources for questions about double majors/minors, internships, study abroad, career planning, graduate/law schools, etc.
Advising is especially important for students who wish to select supportive courses that enhance their post-graduation employment potential. In addition to the departmental advisors, faculty members are available during their posted office hours to advise students within their particular fields.
Advising Office Information
The GVPT advising office is located at 3104 Tydings Hall. We are open Monday through Friday, 9am - 4pm.
Winter 2019 Advising: January 2nd - January 27th
- Walk-in advising will be held Monday through Friday from 10am - 1pm. Our office participates in many different meetings and orientation sessions over the winter term, so we encourage you to call in advance to confirm our hours for a particular day.
For general advising questions, send an email to gvptadvising [at] umd.edu or call (301) 405-4168.
Note: All students who intend to change their major to GVPT or declare GVPT as a double major must call or e-mail the office to sign up for a Major Change Workshop. More information about declaring the major can be found here.
Please note the following office closures:
- Friday, December 21st - Wednesday, January 2nd - the university is closed for winter break.
- Monday, January 21st - the university is closed for MLK Day.
Our Advising team:
Kiersten Riffert
**Note: Kiersten is out on maternity leave as of Friday, 10/26 and will return to the university during the 1st week of February. All questions/concerns may be directed to Caroline Bruchman (see below)
Email is the best way to contact the advising staff.
Mission
The Government & Politics Office takes a holistic approach to advising. We deliver accurate advising information to ensure timely degree completion. We serve as a resource liaison, promote experiential learning, and encourage post-graduation planning. Our office provides an accessible and welcoming environment that respects the diverse needs and backgrounds of our students.
Vision
The Government & Politics Advising Office aims to deliver a responsive and innovative high-quality advising program that facilitates student learning and development. We strive to be a model of excellence at the University of Maryland.
Goals
- Deliver accurate advising and degree information and assist with timely degree completion.
- Take a holistic approach to advising by discussing and clarifying academic, career, and life goals.
- Serve as a campus research liaison and play an active role in the advising community.
- Maintain a high level of accessibility and provide a welcoming environment for students.
- Respect the diversity of our students, including physical and learning abilities.
- Encourage student autonomy.
- Promote experiential learning opportunities and encourage post-graduate planning.
Other Advising Resources:
