Student Advisor

Highland Community College•Freeport, IL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Student Advisor Highland Community College is seeking a dedicated and student-focused Student Advisor to support student success through academic advising, career exploration, and retention initiatives. This full-time position plays an essential role in helping students achieve their academic and career goals while navigating college programs and services. Highland Community College values Integrity, Compassion, and Respect, and seeks employees who demonstrate Commitment, strong Interpersonal Skills, a passion for Lifelong Learning, and Sound Judgment.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Sociology, Education, Liberal Arts, or a related field (required).
Minimum of one (1) year of experience in advising, student services, or a closely related field in an academic environment, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Master's degree required for teaching First Year Experience Seminar courses; otherwise, preferred.
Experience in higher education advising or student support services preferred.
Knowledge of academic advising practices, college programs, degree requirements, and transfer processes.
Familiarity with student services, academic resources, and higher education policies and procedures.
Understanding of student development and the needs of diverse student populations.
Strong analytical skills with the ability to review student records and recommend appropriate pathways.
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community partners.
Proficiency with computer systems, databases, and data-informed decision-making.
Knowledge of customer service best practices and crisis/resource referral processes.
Understanding of FERPA and applicable federal and state student privacy laws.
Valid driver's license required.
Ability to perform sedentary work, including extended periods of sitting and use of standard office equipment.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree required for teaching First Year Experience Seminar courses; otherwise, preferred.
Experience in higher education advising or student support services preferred.

Responsibilities

Advise current and prospective students on placement preparation, course selection, degree pathways, transfer options, and career exploration.
Manage student caseloads and provide individualized guidance to support academic and career success.
Assist students in identifying educational and career goals using assessment tools and advising strategies.
Support students with diverse academic needs, including those transitioning from GED programs or developmental coursework.
Monitor student progress and provide proactive advising or referrals to appropriate academic and support resources.
Review transcripts and perform degree audits and compliance checks, as needed.
Provide basic financial aid guidance and connect students to financial resources.
Collaborate with faculty and staff to support student retention, persistence, and successful transitions.
Retrieve, analyze, and utilize student data to inform advising practices and communicate insights to relevant departments.
Assist with development and evaluation of advising processes and reporting mechanisms, including identifying at-risk students.
Participate in student recruitment and outreach activities, representing the College both on and off campus.
Work collaboratively on a rotational schedule to support both appointments and walk-in advising.
Provide training and mentorship to staff in areas of specialization, as needed.
Coordinating CollegeNOW or transfer initiatives.
Serving as a liaison for special populations (e.g., veterans, international students, student athletes, GED completers, homeless students).
Supporting programs such as HOUSE (Housing and Opportunities that are Useful for Students� Excellence), including tracking outcomes and reporting.
Managing Internet Course Exchange (ICE) processes and partnerships.
Maintaining degree audit systems (CAPP) and updating course and catalog information.
Facilitating proficiency credit processes.
Performing other duties as assigned.