Exploratory Advising

Still looking to declare a major? Learn how your academic advisor can help you every step of the way as you explore.

Exploratory Advising is here to help you as you explore the programs PNW has to offer. Instead of being directly admitted to a major, you will get to explore your skills and interests, learn about all of PNW majors and understand careers connected with each major through our exploratory program.

The Exploratory Advising Pathway

As part of the program, you will take GS 191: First Year Experience. It will introduce you to campus resources and events, career exploration and proven academic skills that will be valuable in future courses and careers. Your advisor and student peer mentors will visit the classroom on a regular basis to provide guidance.

We’ll be with you each step of the way, providing resources to help you explore your options and understand the requirements to declare your major.

Meet the Exploratory Advisors

PNW students work at a table

How Your Advisor Helps You

Advisors are here to help you meet your goals as you work towards your degree. You are encouraged to meet with your advisor to address any questions or concerns you have while you are completing classes and working towards major declaration.

  • The registration system is locked until you meet with an advisor and make a plan to register for classes on track with declaring your intended major.
  • Declaring a major: Your advisor will assist you in completing the necessary steps to officially declare your major and connecting you with your new advisor for that major.
  • Checking in: Your advisor will be monitoring your progress which includes your grades and course completion. You may be invited in to discuss your success and challenges and to explore available resources to help you improve.

You can schedule an appointment with your advisor through your myPNW student portal. If you need assistance please contact the Exploratory Advising office at exploratoryadvising@pnw.edu.

Our Academic and Student Success Advisors are happy to assist you. You may schedule an appointment through your myPNW student portal or email us at exploratoryadvising@pnw.edu.

Contact Us

Hammond Campus

2200 169th Street
Gyte 102
Hammond, IN 46323

(219) 989-2339

1-(855) 608-4600 ext. 2339

exploratoryadvising@pnw.edu

Westville Campus

1401 S. US Highway 421
Technology Building (TECH) 157
Westville, IN 46391

(219) 785-5628

1-(855) 608-4600 ext. 5628

exploratoryadvising@pnw.edu

Resources

Student Resources

Need help? Whether it’s choosing the right classes for your major or getting support from our counseling center, PNW has resources to help you thrive.

Registration

See everything you need to register for classes on the myPNW portal and stay on track for graduation.

Get Tech Help

Need help with something technical? From classroom technology to Purdue Login access, PNW’s Information Services team is here to assist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Exploratory Advising is here to help you as you explore the programs PNW has to offer. Instead of being directly admitted to a major, you will get to explore your skills and interests, learn about all of the PNW majors, and understand careers connected with each major through our exploratory program.

The requirements for major declaration can be found here. You are encouraged to review these requirements and your eligibility with your academic advisor.

You can schedule an appointment in one of three ways:

  • Schedule through your campus portal
  • Call the front desk of your home campus
    • Hammond: (219) 989-2339
    • Westville: (219) 785-5628
  • Stop by your home campus office
    • Hammond: Gyte Building 102
    • Westville: Technology Building (TECH) 157

Hammond campus: Gyte Building 102

Westville campus: Technology Building (TECH) 157

Our office is open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

“View Your Schedule” and “Add or Drop Classes” are located on the Registration tab of your MyPNW account.

You can obtain your PIN from your advisor. However, you are required to meet with your advisor to obtain it. Your PIN cannot be provided to you by phone due to FERPA regulations.

No, an advisor will not be able to add you to the class. This decision is made by the course instructor. Contact the instructor first to ask if they are able to open a seat for you.

You are welcome to make an appointment with an advisor, but this will have to include your child as well. Due to FERPA regulations, we are unable to provide certain information about students enrolled at PNW.