Academic Advisor in the School of Humanities

The University of Southern Mississippi • Hattiesburg, MS

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The Academic Advisor works to cultivate student success by 1) assisting students in their transition to the University, 2) facilitating students’ efforts to plan their path to degree, 3) promoting engagement in their major and 4) connecting students with key campus resources. In addition to working with students in their caseload, advisors will also respond to walk-in student needs, provide support to faculty advisors, and assist with undergraduate recruitment and retention initiatives. The position of advisor is a full-time (40 hour/week) position and limited evenings and/or weekend hours are expected.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and at least one year experience working in an academic environment or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written).
• Commitment to professional development and growth.
• Ability to work independently to manage caseloads, demonstrating strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and time management.
• Knowledge of academic policies/procedures and major/degree plans according to the advisor’s area, in addition to student resources throughout the University.
• Flexibility in using problem-solving skills and initiative to assist individual students with particular issues and identify methods to improve office processes and systems
• Ability to work effectively as a team member and develop collaborative and productive professional relationships in pursuit of shared goals.
• Skill in working with all students to foster an inclusive community that recognizes the value of all people.
• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree from an accredited college or university.
• Prior experience with advisement, student coaching, or other student academic support work, especially with all student populations.
• Educational background in a field related to higher education, student services, or counseling.
• Educational background and/or work experience with one or more of the disciplinary areas that the advisors will serve (i.e., English, History, Philosophy, Religion).

Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively and effectively with other advisors, staff, and faculty in the school, utilizing evidence-based best practices to advise students and increase their success.
• Meet with students to advise them in matters pertaining to academic requirements and progression toward degree completion; proactively reach out to students to ensure they are meeting expectations; refer students to resources on campus as appropriate and ensure student issues are addressed efficiently and effectively; respond to student questions, including walk-ins, emails, phone, and videoconferencing, with a helpful attitude, correct information, and timeliness.
• Provide backup for faculty advisors in the unit when faculty are not available or at the request of the school director.
• Assist students and faculty advisors with university processes such as course substitutions, undergraduate exception requests, and graduation applications.
• Work with students as necessary to complete Academic Improvement Plans and Academic Clearance forms.
• Coordinate and participate in undergraduate recruitment, orientation, and retention events and initiatives.
• Engage in professional development and training to improve advising skills, including recognizing and supporting the needs of diverse student populations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level