You Belong Here

You Belong Here is the first book in the transformative CLEAR Advising Trilogy and the foundation of the CLEAR Model—Connect, Listen, Evaluate, Assist, and Reaffirm. Designed for advisors, educators, and higher education leaders, this volume introduces a bold, equity-centered framework for student support that is relational, reflective, and rooted in justice.

In a time when many students—especially those who are first-generation, Black, immigrant, undocumented, neurodivergent, or marginalized—struggle to feel seen and supported in higher education, You Belong Here offers a clear, practical guide for creating advising spaces where all students are affirmed and empowered to thrive.

Dr. Paul-Arthur Pierre-Louis draws on years of experience in student affairs, honors education, and institutional leadership to craft a model that is both aspirational and actionable. Through personal reflection, theory-driven insight, and applied strategies, You Belong Here reimagines advising as a relationship-driven practice that prioritizes student voice, cultural humility, and authentic connection.

This book is a must-read for professionals who want to move beyond transactional advising and toward meaningful engagement that fosters belonging, accountability, and student success.