Admission Counselor

Undergraduate Admissions celebrates innovative thinkers who are determined to create lasting change. Our students and faculty members embrace change and relish being part of a globally-minded community of scholars.

The University of San Diego, an engaged and contemporary Catholic institution, was founded by the Diocese of San Diego and the Society of the Sacred Heart in 1949. Governed by an independent board of trustees since 1972, USD remains committed to a liberal arts education grounded in the Catholic intellectual tradition and the pursuit of truth, goodness and beauty. Inspired by this centuries-old tradition of Catholic higher education, the University welcomes people of all faith traditions and any, or no, religious background.

About the role

This Admission Counselor position will assist with all aspects of the professional responsibilities of our office, including evaluating and making decisions on admission applications, developing admission policies and procedures, managing and traveling in recruitment territories, counseling prospective students and families, and representing the University to external constituents.

Responsibilities

• Evaluating/Making Admission & Scholarship Decisions on Applications:
  • Participate in all aspects of the application review process, including calculating cumulative GPA, analyzing course difficulty, determining school competitiveness, and quantifying essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities.
  • Make admission decisions based on applicants’ profiles, the overall application pool, and their potential contribution to the campus and University mission.
  • Determine merit scholarship awards and amounts based on admission criteria.
  • Communicate with families and school counselors throughout the process.
• Counseling Students and Conducting Info Sessions:
  • Counsel prospective students and families about admission, financial aid, academic programs, and student life.
  • Conduct workshops for outreach groups (AVID, Upward Bound, CalSoap) on college planning and the higher education system.
  • Serve on panels to discuss admission practices/policies set by NACAC and WACAC.
  • Meet individually with families or counselors as the “counselor of the day” and participate in on-campus recruitment events.
• Territory Management/Recruitment Travel:
  • Conduct presentations at high schools, community colleges, and community-based organizations; attend college nights and fairs; conduct interviews; and meet with alumni.
  • Decide on schools, fairs, and cities for recruitment based on data and consultations with other counselors.
  • Schedule and coordinate all visits, fairs, and receptions. Travel will last approximately three months in the fall and two months in the spring.
  • Participate in professional development and networking opportunities through WACAC, NACAC, and regional groups.
• Manage/Provide Leadership for Collateral Responsibilities:
  • Serve as an Academic and/or Athletic Department Liaison or other assigned duties.
  • Assist with advising transfer students and evaluating transfer applications.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree with 1 year of experience in college admission or relevant work (e.g., education, student leadership, public relations, sales/marketing).
• Ability to work independently without direct supervision.
• Excellent public speaking and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong work ethic and comfort in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.
• Proficiency with technology, including word processing, internet navigation, databases, and email correspondence.
• Knowledge of the University of San Diego and its programs.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to travel extensively, including air travel for up to two consecutive weeks, nights, and weekends.
• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.
• Official education transcripts required for degree verification.

Benefits

The University of San Diego offers a very competitive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• A retirement contribution provided by the University.
• Access to on-campus Fitness Centers.

Pay

$5,859–$5,860 per month.

Schedule

37.5 hours per week.