Academic Advisor

About the role

The primary goal is to advance the college's mission, vision, principles, values, and strategic initiatives through continuous improvement decisions.

Responsibilities

• Assist students in exploring their goals, interests, strengths, values, and concerns through positive, open-ended questions and advising strategies.
• Aid students in developing academic plans aligned with their goals and future aspirations.
• Instruct students on curricular requirements, academic standards, and academic milestones relevant to their chosen academic program.
• Instruct students on assessing their degree progress towards graduation.
• Refer students to campus resources, programs, and support systems that enhance academic success, career development, experiential learning, and engagement in their chosen disciplines.
• Collaborate with faculty to provide students with opportunities to interact with professionals in their fields.
• Aid students in developing problem-solving skills to foster autonomy.
• Create and implement intervention plans for students who are struggling academically.
• Design and facilitate seminars/workshops focusing on career opportunities, transfer admissions procedures, financial literacy, cultural education activities, and social and personal development.
• Perform other related work duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree
• At least 3 years of academic advising experience
• At least 3 years of community college professional experience
• Master’s degree preferred

Performance Expectations

• Possess solid knowledge of the academic programs within the academic pathway.
• Show demonstrated organizational, record-keeping, and planning skills, including time management.
• Show working knowledge of Kirkwood’s student policies and procedures and be able to explain these processes.
• Show understanding of the Core Competencies of an advisor as outlined in NACADA.
• Show strong human relations skills and get along with diverse personalities.
• Show ability to read, understand, and express oneself clearly and effectively in oral and written form.
• Show ability to establish and maintain good team working relationships with students, faculty, staff, administrators, and the public.
• Show willingness to welcome, value, and nurture people of all backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, and support and promote an environment that accepts differences.

Physical Activities

• Occasional (10-33%) standing, pushing, pulling and grasping.
• Frequent (34-66%) reaching and viewing a computer and other types of close visual work.
• Constant (67-100%) sitting, walking, repetitive motion, talking and hearing.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree
• Experience with student development theories and practice
• Experience with holistic, case management advising practices

EEO/AA Statement

It is the policy of Kirkwood Community College not to discriminate in its programs, activities, or employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, creed, religion, and actual or potential family, parental or marital status. If you have questions or complaints related to compliance with this policy, please contact the appropriate department listed in the statement.