Academic Advisor

Job Description

This role involves advising on course selection, degree requirements, academic policies, and career planning. The Academic Advisor also assists with personal development, addressing any academic challenges, and facilitating resources to support student success.

Key Responsibilities:

• Advising and Counseling:
  • Provide one-on-one academic advising to students regarding course selection, major/minor requirements, and academic policies.
  • Assist students in developing educational plans that align with their academic and career goals.
  • Monitor student progress and provide support for academic challenges, making referrals to appropriate campus resources as necessary.
• Student Development:
  • Conduct workshops and informational sessions on academic success strategies, career planning, and other relevant topics.
  • Support students in developing decision-making skills, goal-setting, and self-advocacy.
  • Facilitate orientation programs for new students to help them acclimate to the academic environment.
• Record Keeping and Data Management:
  • Maintain accurate and confidential student records, including advising notes, academic progress reports, and other relevant documentation.
  • Utilize academic advising software and databases to track student progress and generate reports as needed.
• Collaboration and Outreach:
  • Collaborate with faculty, staff, and other departments to support student success initiatives and resolve academic issues.
  • Participate in campus committees and initiatives related to academic advising and student success.
  • Engage in continuous professional development to stay updated on best practices in academic advising and higher education trends.
• Policy and Program Development:
  • Assist in the development and implementation of academic advising policies and procedures.
  • Contribute to the creation and revision of academic advising materials, resources, and communication strategies.

Qualifications:

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Education, Counseling, Student Affairs, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in academic advising, counseling, or a related area within higher education.
  • Familiarity with academic advising principles, student development theory, and higher education systems.
• Skills:
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport with students, faculty, and staff.
  • Excellent organizational and time management abilities, with attention to detail.
  • Proficiency in using academic advising software and other technology tools for data management and communication.
  • Problem-solving skills and the ability to handle sensitive and confidential situations with discretion.

Personal Attributes:

• A commitment to student success and a passion for helping students achieve their academic and career goals.
• Empathy, patience, and the ability to provide supportive and constructive feedback.
• Cultural competence and the ability to work with a diverse student population.

Working Conditions:

• Full-time position with standard working hours, though occasional evenings and weekends may be required for special events or peak advising periods.
• Primarily office-based, with opportunities for virtual advising sessions as needed.