Running Start Advising & Planning

Quarterly Advising Appointment

Locations: Bremerton, Poulsbo, Shelton, and on Zoom

Advising with a Running Start Advisor

Each quarter, you will meet with your Running Start advisor to prepare for the upcoming term. During this appointment, you will:

• Plan and register for next quarter’s courses
• Review your progress toward graduation and degree requirements
• Discuss your academic goals and future plans

Think of this appointment as your check-in to make sure you’re on track and ready for the next quarter!

Self-Directed Quarterly Advising Appointment

Location: No virtual or in-person meeting

Note: You cannot choose this option every quarter. If you miss an in-person or virtual advising session (no-show), your advisor may convert it into this type of appointment.

You must have your planned classes in your Shopping Cart or have enrolled prior to your appointment. 

You create your schedule independently and your advisor will review your planned courses and check your degree progress. This is great for students who are proactive and confident in their educational and career goals and those who just need verification rather than detailed planning support. Your advisor will follow up by email or phone during your 15-minute time slot.

Quarterly Advising Appointment - Education / Social Sciences

Locations: Bremerton

Students interested in careers in Education (Early Childhood, Preschool, K–3, Elementary K–6, Middle School 6–8, High School 9–12, or College-level teaching) or Social Science fields (Social Work, ATOD Counseling, Behavioral Health, Human Services, Psychology) can meet with a Running Start advisor to:

• Explore academic pathways and degree options
• Plan coursework that aligns with career and transfer goals
• Review graduation and program requirements
• Discuss next steps for continuing your education after Running Start

These advising sessions help you make informed decisions and stay on track toward your future career in education or social sciences.

Quarterly Advising Appointment - STEM/Healthcare pathways

Location: Bremerton

Students interested in STEM fields (Natural Sciences, Computer Science, Engineering, and Mathematics) or Healthcare pathways can meet with a Running Start advisor to:

• Explore academic and career pathways in STEM or Healthcare
• Plan coursework that meets degree, transfer, and career goals
• Review progress toward graduation and program requirements
• Discuss future opportunities after Running Start

Note: These appointments are not for Social Science fields (such as Psychology or Criminology).

Academic Support Meeting

Locations: Bremerton, or Zoom

These meetings are required for students on Academic Intervention and Academic Warning and optional for students on Academic Concern (See Olympic College's Academic Standards Progress Policy).

This does not replace the required quarterly advising appointment unless otherwise indicated.

45-minute academic check-in to discuss academic progress and to review resources and support services to work towards the student's educational goals. These meetings are open to all Running Start Students.

• Meet with your High School Counselor and submit your fully signed RSEVF at least two business days before your appointment. 
• Check and respond to messages in your Olympic College student email.
• Review your high school graduation requirements and remaining credits.
• Schedule your advising appointment early each quarter.
• Plan courses to meet your educational objectives.
• Add your desired classes to your Shopping Cart prior to your appointment. 
• Explore Olympic College programs, degrees, and transfer options.
• Research careers and majors that align with your goals.
• Identify your intended major, required prerequisites, and review the quarterly class schedule before your appointment.
• Arrive a few minutes early and come prepared with questions or concerns.
• Discuss any academic challenges with your advisor—they’re here to help.