Here are Some Questions to Ask When Choosing an Advisor:

1. Is this advisor knowledgeable in the area of research or scholarly activity you plan to pursue? Is his theoretical and methodological perspective consistent with yours?
   
   
2. How productive is s/he? How recognized is his/her work?
   
   
3. How many students does s/he advise?
• What is the average time for completion of this advisor's Ph.D. students?
• What is the completion rate for his/her advisees?
  
  
4. What kinds of relationships and expectations does he/she have --
• frequent interactions?
• collaborative projects?
• encourage independence?
• handing out topics or helping students create research areas? or just hands-off?
  
  
5. How long has s/he been on the faculty?
   • Is s/he tenured?
   • Does s/he maintain good relations with other faculty?
   • Is s/he likely to be in residence for the entire duration of your dissertation?
     
     
6. How well does this advisor assist students in getting funding and finding jobs?