Key Elements of Effective Faculty-Student Counseling: A Case Study of M University’s College of Lifelong Education

Objectives This study explores the essential elements of effective faculty-student counseling aimed at addressing the diverse academic and emotional challenges faced by adult learners, while fostering their holistic growth. Methods Through qualitative analysis of data collected from focus group interviews and in-depth discussions with faculty and students at M University’s College of Lifelong Education in Seoul, the research reveals that faculty-student counseling plays a crucial role in resolving university-related difficulties, enhancing motivation for academic and career pursuits, and providing positive resources for adult learners. Results The research findings indicate that faculty-student consultations play a crucial role in addressing the challegnes faced by adult learners in higher education, enhancing their motivation for academic and career pursuits, and providing positive resources. Additionally, the study identified the scope of consultation topics, the elements of effective consultations, factors that hinder the effectiveness of consultations, and the necessary components for improvement. Conclusions Based on these findings, the study proposes the enhancement of counseling systems and the development of detailed guidelines to improve the effectiveness of faculty-student interactions, thereby promoting comprehensive and meaningful engagement between faculty and students.