Counselor Academic Service-HEOP

About the role

The Center of Student Excellence is seeking a skilled and dedicated Academic Counselor to serve within the Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP).

Responsibilities

Utilize evidence-based academic counseling strategies within a structured case management framework to identify, assess, and address individual student needs and goals; develop and monitor personalized academic success plans that promote timely degree completion and long-term student growth. Apply advanced developmental models of counseling, including student development theory, social work frameworks, and solution-focused, strengths-based, and multicultural counseling approaches, to facilitate holistic student success, persistence, and retention within a diverse campus community. Collaborate proactively with HEOP students to conduct comprehensive assessments of academic, financial, personal, and psychosocial needs and goals; coordinate appropriate referrals to university and community resources to support student well-being and academic progression. Identify, recruit, enroll, and retain students who are historically underrepresented and first-generation at Syracuse University; participate in outreach, orientation, and community-building initiatives that foster a sense of belonging and institutional connection. Deliver integrated academic, developmental, and holistic case management services on a year-round basis, including during the pre-first-year summer program, to support the retention, academic progress, and graduation of assigned program students; maintain timely and accurate documentation of student interactions and interventions.

Qualifications

A master’s degree in Counseling, Social Work, Higher Education Administration, Student Affairs, or a closely related field is desired, or an equivalent combination of advanced education and professional experience. Two (2+) plus years of direct experience in academic advising, counseling, or student support services is required, with preference given to candidates with experience serving underrepresented, first-generation, or low-income student populations.

Skills and Knowledge

Demonstrated background in academic advising and counseling for diverse student populations is required and will be given priority in review. Possess a strong working knowledge of student development theory, social work principles & frameworks, & evidence-based counseling theories applicable to supporting student academic success. Knowledge of solution-focused strengths-based, trauma-informed, and multicultural counseling approaches is essential. Excellent interpersonal, oral communication, and professional writing skills. Demonstrated ability to build productive, supportive, and culturally responsive relationships with a diverse group of students. Willingness to engage in close, ongoing collaboration with assigned students to help develop the academic competencies, self-advocacy skills, and resilience necessary for retention and graduation. Familiarity with or willingness to learn university policies, procedures, and resources relevant to serving the HEOP program population. Proficiency in administrative support functions; counseling assessment and intervention skills strongly preferred. Experience designing, implementing, promoting, and evaluating educational support programs and student success initiatives.