Student Success Advisor

Kaplan•Edmonton, AB

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Alberta’s Foundation Program is a brand new joint educational partnership between Kaplan International Pathways Canada and the University of Alberta commencing in 2025. The University of Alberta is a Top 100 ranking world university and is situated in Edmonton, Alberta. The Foundation Program (‘Program’) offers international students who do not meet direct entry requirements, an opportunity to gain admission to the University after successfully completing the 3-term (1-academic year) Foundation Program which consists of ten (10) 3-credit courses which count toward the first complete year of a Bachelor’s Degree, as well as non-credit bearing classes designed to supplement course or skill deficiencies and set students up for successful tertiary studies ongoing at the University. The Program is supported by Kaplan staff, starting at the point of attraction and recruitment, right through to completion and progression from the program. University instructors teach credit-bearing courses and Kaplan manages all operational aspects of the program as well as provides supplemental learning and well-being services to enrolled students. The students are University of Alberta students from day one. We are seeking a passionate, student-centered, and adaptable Student Success Advisor to provide academic, transitional, and holistic guidance to international students. In this role, you will support students from initial arrival through their successful progression into their second year. The ideal candidate brings excellent student advising and communication skills, together with a versatile skillset focused on empathy, student-centred care, and a collaborative team culture. This is an exciting opportunity to be a part of, and help shape, a first-of-its-kind program in Canada. Position Overview Reporting directly to the Student Success Supervisor, the Student Success Advisor is responsible for ensuring international students receive high-quality, comprehensive support throughout their time in the Year One Foundation Program. The Advisor manages day-to-day advising touchpoints, coordinates essential communications, executes academic interventions, and collaborates across departments to foster student engagement, belonging, and academic success. This hands-on position requires a proactive approach, balancing individual student case management with broad programmatic operations. This role may also include supervision of student volunteers. We welcome candidates from a wide range of sectors who can demonstrate transferable experience, particularly in academic advising, intercultural or international student support, and event/program planning.

Requirements

A University degree in a related field.
1-2 years of experience working with international students or within a cross-cultural environment, showing strong intercultural communication and relationship-building skills.
1-2 years of experience providing student-centred advising or student support services within an educational setting.
Strong organizational and time-management abilities, with the flexibility to adapt to evolving student needs and operational demands.
Familiarity with student support operations, administrative data tracking, and wellness-focused practices.
A strong background in social programming, student engagement, or event coordination within an educational or community setting.
Ability to work collaboratively as part of a high-performing team as well as independently on routine student management tasks.
A commitment to inclusive, student-centered service delivery and continuous improvement.
A demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in both practice and values.

Responsibilities

Lead or support coordination of student transition events including pre-departure webinars, new student orientations and YOFP Completion celebrations.
Manage communication channels, including sending regular updates regarding upcoming deadlines and events.
Conduct one-on-one advising sessions which may cover topics such as Academic Advising, Settlement Advising, Wellbeing checks, and general inquiries.
Collaborate with colleagues to support students with complex academic or wellbeing needs.
Facilitate informational group sessions to proactively address questions frequently asked by students.
Coordinate and facilitate monthly events/initiatives to build community and maintain accessible, casual touchpoints with the students.
Monitor students’ grades and indicators of academic progression.
Facilitate various academic processes, including Program Changes, Academic Progression, Leave of Absence, and Withdrawal Requests.
Monitor student attendance records on a weekly basis, conduct attendance meetings, and facilitate proactive Attendance Workshops.
Facilitate bi-weekly check-in meetings for students under the age of 18.
Provide guidance to students progressing to Year 2 through registration support and academic advising.
Provide weekly coverage at the student service office to manage student drop-ins, triage immediate inquiries, and support general administrative workflows.
Monitor student feedback and act on trends or concerns in collaboration with program leadership.
Support safety, wellness, and safeguarding practices to ensure every student is safe and cared for.
Ensure all student-related data and documentation are accurately maintained and kept up to date to support operational, safeguarding, and reporting needs.
Uphold and model Kaplan International Pathways' Safeguarding, Health & Safety, and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) practices.
Perform other duties as required by the Program Director, Student Success Supervisor, or senior leadership.