As SEAS students prepare to declare their majors this week, you'd think they'd be streaming into the Center for Student Advising for advice on a critical decision. But Columbia's academic advisers are fighting an uphill battle -- they've got a bad reputation, and many students say they rarely see their advisers.

One student said, "I went to the career center, I talked to my advisor, I went to those things that you have to attend for Gateway. I personally feel like they didn't help too much." But the Advising office is trying to be more helpful. Recently, they've hosted some new events, hoping to give sophomores extra guidance for their major decision. And the center's programs are helping some Columbians.

"I'd say they definitely give a lot of insight that the bulletins alone or the faculty members couldn't give just because you get to see and hear what the former students themselves have to say about choosing their majors."

"They can't harm you. so you might as well give it a try."

"This program that we have now the Just Desserts, with an opportunity to speak to recent alums and alums in the different departments is invaluable. Last week my office sponsored a program Major Mentor Night, where first years and sophomores could come and meet with current students juniors and seniors in SEAS representing all of the different departments."

While the CSA might be a good place to start, most students don't depend on it alone when they're selecting an engineering major.

"Personally I think the most effective way of deciding on your major is talking to the professors."

"It's really just about talking to a lot of people and getting their take on it."

So, the pressure is on for SEAS students. But in a week filled with anxiety, give the CSA a chance -- maybe the advisers can make major declaration a little easier.