FYS Instructor/Academic Advisor

SUMMARY

The Academic Advisor/First Year Seminar Facilitator advises students concerning their academic plans, progress and academic/career goals in order to assist the students in making personal education decisions and meeting graduation requirements. The Academic Advisor/First Year Seminar Facilitator also facilitates a first year seminar that acclimates students to college and Dillard University. This position reports to the University College dean. This is position requires considerable contact with students and therefore requires extensive communication skills. The Academic Advisor is expected to possess extensive knowledge about academic programs, policies, procedures, and student support services within the scope of his/her responsibilities. The Academic Advisor must be able to interpret student needs and provide individualized service and assistance while maintaining confidentiality. The Academic Advisor/First Year Seminar Facilitator should have an appreciation and understanding of the university’s history and mission.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

A complete application requires the submission of a resume/curriculum vitae and cover letter clearly expressing how your background and experience aligns with not only the position but Dillard University.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following and other duties may be assigned:

• Advise assigned students individually and/or within groups regarding academic core and/or major/program requirements, appropriate class selection, academic policies and procedures, and campus resources.
• Assist assigned students in identifying long term goals and career plans, both academically and personally.
• Guide students to meet graduation requirements in a timely fashion while preparing them to meet their individualized future goals.
• Advise all students and assist in their exploration of academic programs whilst focusing on academic policies and procedures and available resources.

• Facilitate First Year Seminar courses; grade assignments in timely manner; aid in curriculum development and design.
• Assist with University Convocation, Emerging Scholars, UC Men on Campus, Bleu Table Talk, First Year Fridays, academic workshops, and other university college programs.

• Provide one-one one advising to new, returning, and international students regarding courses, major, career choices, academic policies, and degree requirements.
• Ensure the effectiveness of the advising process by maintaining advisee files, regularly updating advisee academic reports, and validating the information contained in the advisee files with the student database.
• Promote the advisor-advisee relationship by effectively using the various tools of communication, including email, telephone, face to face meetings, online meetings, and electronic advising notes.
• Maintain confidential advising records.
• Utilize information systems, as necessary, to aid in the delivery of advising services
• Serve as a member on appropriate college and/or university advisory committees.
• Create academic plans for graduation, clarify Dillard policies and procedures, refer students to campus resources and assist in the definition of realistic career goals.
• Maintain records of progress towards graduation using Jenzabar, EAB Navigate in collaboration with the Registrar’s office and program coordinators.
• Maintain the confidentiality of student records and other information according to FERPA regulations.
• Participate in recruitment activities.
• Provide online advising for current and prospective students regarding program requirements and graduation requirements.
• Assist with implementation and execution orientation for new students, frequently serving as first contact with prospective students.
• Use Microsoft Office, Google Drive, Jenzabar, EAB, Canvas, and other technology;
• Work some nights and weekends particularly during scheduled advisement/registration periods and orientation.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the University College dean.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Work-study students or peer mentors, if assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

MINIMUM EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE

This position requires a Bachelor’s degree in education, counseling, or academic field directly related to the Academic Advisor/First Year Seminar Facilitator’s specific responsibilities; An interest in working in a higher education environment. Ability to learn new software such as Jenzabar, degree audit programs, and EAB Student Navigate is required.

PREFERRED EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE

Master’s degree in education, counseling, or academic field directly related to the Academic Advisor/First Year Seminar Facilitator’s specific responsibilities. 1 to 3 years of professional work experiences in a higher education environment. Experience with Jenzabar, EAB Student Navigate and degree audit programs.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

A complete application requires the submission of a resume/curriculum vitae and cover letter clearly expressing how your background and experience aligns with not only the position but Dillard University.

ADDITIONAL SKILLS

Ability to cultivate and sustain relationships with diverse audiences. Ability to organize and prioritize work. Ability to work collaboratively. Ability to work on multiple tasks simultaneously and pay attention to detail. Strong written and verbal communication skills.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES

Sit as a desk and use hand, wrist and finger movements to operate a computer regularly. Talk and listen to current and prospective students, colleagues and other individuals on a regular basis. Stand and walk around the office and other campus facilities as needed. Lift and carry general supplies weighing up to 5 lbs.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

General office conditions; moderate noise level.

Opportunities for Professional Development

1. Co-Lead Internal Academic Advising Strategy
2. Co-Lead Internal Retention Strategy (<2.5 GPA)
3. Co-Lead Student Orientation, Advising, and Registration
4. Co-Lead EAB implementation and communication strategies
5. Serve on university standing committees
6. Serve as Liaison to campus stakeholders