Academic Adviser

Penn State University • Abington, MA

22h • $44,628 - $64,668 • Hybrid

About The Position

This role will provide targeted, high-touch advising to a cohort of at-risk students in their first and second years of college. The successful candidate must be able to interact effectively with students of diverse socio-economic, ethnic and cultural backgrounds and understand campus and community resources. They will promote success by empowering students to take ownership of their education and by partnering with students to identify and achieve their academic, personal, and professional goals – thus leading to increased student retention and overall success. This is a limited-term position funded for an initial two-year period. Employment is offered through one-year appointments that may be renewed annually. Continued funding beyond the initial period is contingent upon university need, availability of funding, and program effectiveness. (e.g., demonstrated positive outcomes in student retention, academic performance, and progression toward degree completion). This individual will have the ability to listen, understand and be flexible and open-minded in responding to student needs and concerns. Respect for diversity and a willingness to learn about others is essential. A strong attention to detail, and a desire to work with students in a high-volume center are necessities for success in this position. This individual will have the ability to function independently while operating effectively within a team environment; and a demonstrated ability to balance numerous complex tasks in a professional and efficient manner. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are critical as this position requires interaction with students, parents, faculty, and various college staff members. A working knowledge of computer applications is helpful. Experience and comfort with group presentations is desirable. Written and verbal fluency in a second language is a plus.

Requirements

• Master's Degree
• 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• Ability to interact effectively with students of diverse socio-economic, ethnic and cultural backgrounds
• Understanding of campus and community resources
• Ability to listen, understand and be flexible and open-minded in responding to student needs and concerns
• Respect for diversity and a willingness to learn about others
• Strong attention to detail
• Desire to work with students in a high-volume center
• Ability to function independently while operating effectively within a team environment
• Demonstrated ability to balance numerous complex tasks in a professional and efficient manner
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Working knowledge of computer applications is helpful
• Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Nice To Haves

• Experience and comfort with group presentations is desirable
• Written and verbal fluency in a second language is a plus

Responsibilities

• Initiate early and regular contact with students in the cohort
• Help students to clarify and plan for their educational goals
• Assist students with the selection of appropriate courses
• Advise students in the development of an academic plan to facilitate the completion of a degree program
• Meet with students on a scheduled basis to help keep them on track
• Connect students to resources critical to their academic, personal, and professional success (e.g., learning support, financial aid, career services, etc.)
• Promote experiential learning opportunities, student life offerings, and extra-curricular activities
• Continue targeted outreach to ensure students are engaged and making positive progress

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical coverage
• Dental coverage
• Vision coverage
• Robust retirement plans
• Substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time
• 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children

What This Job Offers

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