Student Support

Academic Advising
The first level of support is your academic advisor. Your academic advisor is there to help you make the most of your experience at Iowa State from the beginning. Academic advisors help prospective students and their families learn about the program, help new students become oriented to the department and university, and support current students throughout their time in the program if they have questions, concerns, or seek help planning for the future. Your advisor can support you by connecting you with resources on campus and in the community and by helping you to develop decision-making, problem-solving, and self-advocacy skills.
Advising and Learning Outcomes
Important Dates
Jan. 21 - First day of the semester
Jan 27 - Last day to make schedule changes
March 24 - Second half semester classes begin
April 4 - Last day to drop full semester classes
May 16 - Last day of the semester
Career Planning
Career information can be found on the career planning page. Be sure to check out LAS Career Services to help develop your career skills. Whether you need help with a resume, writing a cover letter, work on your job interview skills, or negotiate a job offer, LAS Career Services has the resources to help you land that job and succeed.
Scholarships
Along with scholarships offered to all Iowa State University students, BCBio majors may be eligible for scholarships from the Computer Science, GDCB, and Mathematics departments.
Connections
You’ll find support from your peers, faculty, and staff when you join a learning community. Learn about your path of study, on-campus resources and activities, and future careers. You’ll connect with faculty and students through activities both in and outside the classroom and collaborate with a peer mentor.
Connect with other students developing innovative and entrepreneurial skills in the Start Something LAS Academy. Or find other students with similar interests in any of Iowa State’s hundreds of student organizations.

Connect and thrive
Iowa State is a big university with a close-knit, caring community that provides access to resources that support and enrich your learning, working, and living experience.
The university provides a comprehensive network of academic support, health and safety resources, and supportive communities.