What are the responsibilities and job description for the Academic Advisor position at usm-pilot?
Special Instructions to Applicants
The University of Southern Mississippi seeks a new advisor to hire
for the centralized Advisement Center at Gulf Park. Please upload:
1. Current Resume
2. Cover letter highlighting your
interest and fit for this position
3. Names & contact information
for three references who can speak to your potential as an advisor
All
application materials must be submitted in the online system; emailed materials
are not considered. Application reviews will begin once the posting closes.
Job Summary
The Academic Advisor works as part of a network
of advisors on campus, inside and outside the Gulf Park Advisement Center, who
cultivate student success by 1) assisting students in their transition to the
University, 2) facilitating students’ efforts to plan their path to degree, 3)
promoting engagement in an appropriate major for their interests and strengths,
and 4) connecting students with key campus resources. This position
supports a caseload of undergraduate students within a specific set of majors for
whom they serve as a primary advisor. In addition to working with students in
their caseload, advisors will also respond to walk-in student needs
collaboratively with other advisors in the Gulf Park Advisement Center. The
position of advisor is a full-time (40 hour/week) position and limited evenings
and weekend hours are expected.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
1. Work collaboratively and effectively with other advisors, staff, and faculty across the University, utilizing evidence- based best practices for advising to increase student and advisor success; Attend workshops, presenting at office meetings, and/or holding membership in strategic professional organizations (e.g., NACADA).
2. Meet and collaboratively engage with students to advise them in matters pertaining to academic curricula, requirements and majors, facilitating academic progression toward degree completion; proactively reach out to students at regular intervals to ensure they are meeting expectations; refer students to resources on campus and specific staff and faculty as appropriate and be proactive to ensure student issues are addressed efficiently and effectively; respond to student questions, including walk-ins, emails, phone, and videoconferencing, with a helpful attitude, correct information, and timeliness; take an active role to resolve student problems.
3. Act as a liaison between students and faculty/staff in units across campus to facilitate communication and address issues as they arise, including communicating with faculty in the programs covered by the advisor’s caseload of majors; communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, including email and advisement notes.
4. Provide unbiased guidance to undeclared students and those considering changing majors; work in partnership with Career Services to assist students in making informed choices about both courses of study and future goals.
5. Engage in continuous professional development and training to improve advising skills, including recognizing and supporting the needs of diverse student populations.
6. Perform other duties as assigned.
