Academic and Student Support Advisor

Virginia Tech•Blacksburg, VA

21h•Onsite

About The Position

The Academic and Student Support Advisor position is a full-time calendar year Administrative and Professional role within the Department of Biochemistry in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), joining the undergraduate advising team. This is a fully student-facing role, supporting both current and prospective Biochemistry students. The advisor will be tasked with working with sensitive information and maintaining a high level of confidentiality and discretion in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

Requirements

M.S. degree from an accredited institution, preferably in Biochemistry, Life Sciences, Higher Education, or related field; or any satisfactory combination of experience and training which demonstrates the knowledge, skills and abilities to perform above duties.
Excellent communication, organizational, time management, problem solving, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently to meet deadlines and set work priorities.
Ability to work collaboratively as part of the advising team.
Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain high level of confidentiality by following FERPA, university, and department guidelines.
Ability to work effectively with a diverse population, including students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni, and prospective students and their families.

Nice To Haves

Employment experience in an academic unit, including previous work in areas of academic student services, advising, recruiting, and curriculum processes.
Experience with university advising technology systems including: Navigate, BDM, Banner, Transfer Equivalency Database, DARS

Responsibilities

Delivery of individualized accurate information in a professional sincere manner to students about course options and developing a comprehensive educational plan.
Keeping appointment availability and being available for assistance while also maintaining records on meetings with students within the Navigate platform.
Maintaining comprehensive knowledge of curriculum, university policies, campus resources, college guidelines, including policy changes and updates.
Being informed of, and providing accurate information about current academic policies and procedures.
Following through with appropriate referrals and follow up with students to maintain a consistent and supportive relationship to students.
Seeking out and taking advantage of opportunities for professional development.
Participation in college and departmental summer course registration advising and commencement.
Assisting with the processing of undergraduate research forms.
Interfacing with the Biochemistry undergraduate club and Peer Mentors.
Work closely with department faculty to communicate updates and assistance in student advising efforts.
Working collaboratively with the CALS Academic Programs office and the university regarding auditing and evaluating students’ progress, graduation analysis, clearance, and other applicable undergraduate process management.
Assist with instruction for Biochemistry First Year Experience course.
Maintains knowledge of First Year Experience initiatives, including attending workshops and training events.
Recruitment and Retention of Students.
Serving as one of the primary contacts and resources for current and prospective undergraduate students.
Working closely with the CALS Lead Advisor and CALS Director of Recruitment to coordinate and maximize resources.
Working with sensitive information and maintaining a high level of confidentiality and discretion in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).