College of Arts and Letters (CAL) Academic Advisor

James Madison University•Harrisonburg, VA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

University Advising is seeking a student-centered and collaborative Academic Advisor to support students within the College of Arts and Letters (CAL). As part of a dynamic advising team serving a broad student population, the Academic Advisor provides holistic academic guidance that empowers students to navigate their educational journey, explore academic opportunities, and progress toward timely degree completion. The academic advisor partners with faculty, staff, and campus resources to foster student success, engagement, and belonging while supporting institutional goals related to retention, persistence, and graduation. This position plays a vital role in helping students achieve their academic and personal goals within JMU’s learning-centered environment. Through proactive outreach, individualized advising, and a commitment to student belonging, access, and success, this position plays a vital role in helping students achieve their academic and personal goals within JMU's learning-centered environment.

Requirements

Master’s degree.
Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to relate meaningfully with undergraduates.
Willingness to work independently, collaboratively, and under supervision.
Excellent oral and written communication, time management, organizational and problem-solving skills.
Ability to multitask and navigate integrated student information systems in a dynamic environment.
Exceptional work ethic.
Demonstrated commitment to building a welcoming work environment.

Nice To Haves

Academic advising experience working directly with students in higher education.
Experience advising in teacher education, teaching experience, or related experience
Strong attention to detail combined with appreciation for the big picture.
Familiarity with national trends and best practices in academic advising profession and higher education.
Ability to multitask and navigate integrated student information systems in a dynamic environment.
Experience with learning, interpreting, and articulating complex academic requirements, policies, and procedures.

Responsibilities

Provide holistic, student-centered academic advising to Justice Studies and Communication majors, including guidance on General Education, major, minor, and degree requirements.
Manage an assigned caseload by proactively monitoring academic progress, conducting outreach, and maintaining consistent, timely communication with students.
Support student success through goal setting, degree planning, early intervention, and referrals to campus resources as needed.
Participate in first-year and transfer orientation programs to support student onboarding and transition.
Participate in first-year and transfer advising trainings to stay current on advising best practices at JMU
Represent the department at recruitment events, including open houses, admitted student days, and academic showcases.
Contribute to outreach efforts that enhance student engagement, retention, and recruitment.
Maintain accurate, timely, and comprehensive electronic advising records in alignment with institutional policies.
Utilize advising technologies and data systems to inform advising practices and support student success initiatives.
Ensure responsiveness and accessibility to students through established advising systems and communication channels.
Collaborate in development and improvement of advising materials for students and colleagues.
Ensure advising content reflects current policies and curriculum updates.
Attend faculty meetings as needed to communicate advising-related updates, discuss policy and process changes, and address advising concerns.
Participate in University Advising meetings, trainings, and retreats.
Engage in ongoing professional development.
Partner with faculty and campus stakeholders to support students.
Perform additional duties as assigned.