Academic Advisor II

Pay Grade: 29E 

Context of Job:

Under the general direction, the Academic Advisor II is responsible for providing academic advisement services to students in the School of Nursing (SON).  The advisor works cooperatively with the Department Chair to set goals and propose solutions to advising issues that affect the quality of services to students in the SON.  Knowledge of curriculum options, degree requirements, academic policies and procedures for advisement of students in the majors housed in the SON is necessary.  The position will assist with course registration, senior checkout, student programming, related undergraduate student activities and orientation session as necessary.  The Academic Advisor II helps in the development of programs and events for prospective students and supports programs and University wide initiatives for entering freshmen and transfer students. 

Major Responsibilities:

• Assess the student stage of development (academic, career, and personal) and promotes student growth by determining suitable developmental tasks; assists student in establishing realistic and attainable academic and career goals.
• Advise students on academic, career and personal issues; identify educational and career options appropriate for each student and assist with the analysis of each option, including possible outcomes and their implications; if needed, refer student to counseling services; set up an action plan for the student to explore alternative careers and related majors.
• Assist students with admission and registration; provide guidance in course selection in keeping with the student interests, values and abilities.
• Responsible for managing student programs, such as learning communities and honor programs
• Provide advisement services to students including current majors, those on probation, in dismissal status and prospective students.  Interpret policy, explain GPA and academic standing, and provide general guidance on academic matters.
• Evaluate student academic abilities. Guide students in setting goals and in a choosing career path.
• Present academic information to orientation groups, potential students, and their families.
• Organize prospective student visits.  Represent SON in recruitment events.
• Assist in recruitment of potential students by advising them of general academic requirements of a specific college; describe courses; disseminate information regarding registration procedures; prepare recruitment packets.
• Promote communication among various University-wide programs and services, which aid new students in the transition to the University.
• Support student recruitment processes and tracking; provide support to ensure student progress toward degree completion and graduation; assist in preparation of recruiting and program information.
• Compile, verify and analyze statistical reports; prepare administrative forms that may contain confidential information.
• Interpret and explain college and university policies and procedures to students and parents.
• In conjunction with the College and departmental faculty/staff, represent SON in a variety of special admission events such as Blue & Golden Saturdays and Decision Days.
• Attend and assist with the Convocations, Honors Days, and other major student events as needed.
• Maintain and update student files and records. Document all pertinent student information; update computerized information system regarding changes to student status. Check administrative forms for accuracy such as grade checks, overload petitions, curriculum changes; assist students in their completion
• Determine eligibility and satisfactory progress toward degree, issue Senior Checkouts, identify current and potential needs or problem areas (e.g., study skills, tutoring) and refer students to appropriate campus resources for assistance.
• Provide support with course scheduling, registration and academic/career options.
• Respond to inquiries, investigate and resolve problems related to undergraduate procedures and administrative issues.
• Monitor SON s academic processes, research opportunities for improvements which are in conjunction with University policy and industry best practices.
• Create and coordinate articulation agreements with partner institutions as requested or identified.
• Implement academic advising assessments instruments/processes to determine areas of strengths and needs of a dynamic student demographic.
• Plan and coordinate career services “boutique” events to provide professional/career resources and networking opportunities for SON   students pursuing research, internship, graduate school and career opportunities.
• Stay current of industry best practices through educational/training opportunities and membership in professional organizations.  Implement advising best practices into the department advising model.
• Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

 Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Counseling or related field with three years of experience or equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
• Experience in academic advising in higher education.
• Ability to grasp, retain and disseminate an extensive, varied and dynamic body of information.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and employ decision-making skills.
• Ability to evaluate student transcripts and/or records.
• Ability to communicate to students curricular and graduate requirements.
• Strong writing, analytical and critical thinking skills. 
• Ability to analyze, summarize and effectively present data.
• Effective leadership, organizational, interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Ability to present information effectively to groups and to work productively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
• Proficiency with PowerPoint, Excel, and Work.  Proficiency with a student information system.
• Experience with e- advising preferred.
• Demonstrates an understanding and consideration of the differing needs and concerns of individuals with varying identities, cultures and backgrounds.
• Committed to fostering a workplace culture of belonging, where diversity is celebrated and equity is a core value.

Special Requirements:

• Will be required to occasionally work evenings and weekends.