Title: First Steps Advisor
Institution: Jackson State Community College
Job Summary
The First Steps Advisor is a staff position designed to provide holistic advising and support services starting with first time freshmen out of high school to ensure student retention and success. Additionally, students are assisted with navigating next steps after their certificate or degree completion at Jackson State Community College should they wish to transfer to a four-year institution. The Advising Coach will report to the Director of Advising and collaborate with other advising coaches, administrative staff, and faculty to oversee the college’s effectiveness in meeting the needs of students.
Job Duties
- 100% - • Monitor, coach, and advise an assigned caseload of students through progression metrics through first year of advising • Provide academic advising for all student majors via in-person, email, telephone, or Zoom appointments • Refer students to on and off campus resources to meet their needs outside of the classroom (i.e. tutoring, food pantry, housing assistance) • Reach out to students based on an early alert system • Work with students on Program of Study requirements • Assist students with degree planning for both Jackson State and their desired four-year institution • Assist students in creating Academic Plans for financial aid appeals and Fresh Start applications • Advise students on the university transfer process; assist in hosting annual transfer fair • Assist students with developing strategies to aid in success in the classroom to promote student retention and success (i.e. time management, study skills tips, one-on-one tutorials of commonly used platforms for class) • Instructing students on how to be prepared for an advising session (i.e., accessing degree works, course choices, graduation planning, time management) • Track relevant student data using excel and Argos • Assist with planning and facilitation of orientation • Creation/implementation of nudging campaign utilizing email and text software for fall and spring semesters • Promote innovative and high impact practice policies and procedures that result in improving student success and retention • Assist with the maintenance of records for assigned students • Provide the Director of Advising with the information necessary for monitoring project effectiveness as required • Actively participate in professional development opportunities to close the equity gap and increase student success • Actively participate in professional development opportunities pertaining to advising and success coaching in order to stay up to date on best practices and research in the respective fields • Participate in various committees on campus and in the community at large in order to promote professional development • Provide regular advising training opportunities • Perform other duties as assigned - (Essential)
Minimum Qualifications
Possession of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in higher education involving programs and services that focus on advising or increasing enrollment, retention, and graduation.
Experience working in education with a focus on equity, adult learners, and students of diverse backgrounds.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of equity and diversity issues in communities and education
Knowledge and understanding of College organization, goals and objectives, and policies and procedures
Program management and negotiating skills, including ability to establish a schedule and budget and work within the same
Knowledge and proficiency in computers, especially Microsoft Office applications
Possess strong oral and written communication skills
Strong knowledge of student support programs and ability to make proper referrals
Possess excellent organizational and interpersonal skills
Ability to meet deadlines with attention to detail
Ability to work independently and take initiative and responsibility for scheduling individual sessions with students
Ability to asses and provide recommendations for additional assistance as needed for student well-being
Ability to work a flexible schedule to include occasional evening and weekend assignments
Ability to work in a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural environment with students, faculty and staff
Ability to establish and maintain good relations on and off campus.
Pay Rate: $43,888 - $51,120 Annual salary depending on eligible experience which is defined by the current compensation plan.
Open Until Filled: Yes. For best consideration apply by September 8, 2024.
Special Instructions to Applicants:
To be considered for this position, you must submit an application. Prior applications will not be used to fill this vacancy.
A completed satisfactory background check will be required before hire.
