Graduate Admissions Evaluator

Location: Hattiesburg, 118 College Drive, Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001, United States

Employment Status: Full Time

Salary Range: $35,568.00 - $38,002.00

About the role

The Graduate Admissions Evaluator is essential to the Graduate School’s goal of increasing graduate enrollment by recruiting and admitting high-caliber students commensurate with USM’s R1 research status. This individual counsels prospective and active applicants providing assistance with their questions about programs, the university, and use of the application software. Moreover, they must be able to interpret documents and make critical, independent decisions about an applicant’s qualifications for admission. Their work requires attention to detail, reasoning skills, and accuracy so applicants receive timely information and assistance, making them more likely to accept an offer of admission and enroll at our institution.

Responsibilities

• Interprets the eligibility of graduate applicants for admission into graduate programs by demonstrating a deep understanding of policies regarding admissions requirements of both the Graduate School and specific programs.
• Determines the eligibility of graduate applicants for graduate programs by ensuring admissions requirements of both the Graduate School and specific programs are met.
• Evaluates the program’s decision to deny or admit with conditional or regular status and makes the final decision on whether the applicant is eligible for the selected admission status.
• Advises applicants regarding use of application software, admission and application requirements and process, and application status and completion of the application.
• Communicates with graduate coordinators and other campus partners regarding admissions-related queries.
• Shares knowledge and advice regarding graduate school admissions processes with campus community and participates in on-campus recruitment and informational events.
• Assesses new student accounts for post-admissions tasks and advises new admits on next steps.
• Helps train new employees, graduate assistants, and student workers on use of computer systems.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• 1 year of experience in higher education administrative support, admissions counseling, communication, information and records management, customer service, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Skills

• Technology: Proficiency or ability to learn complex software systems including the University’s client relations manager (CRM), Student Information System (SIS), and imaging software. User knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Communication: Excellent oral and written communication skills, including correct use of grammar; demonstrated editing, proofing, and writing experience; ability to write clear and concise correspondence.
• Relationship Management: Ability to interact in a professional manner with faculty, students, and staff; strong customer service skills with demonstrated commitment to resolving problems in a positive manner; willingness to participate in open and ongoing dialog with supervisor and respond positively to constructive criticism and instruction; ability to work independently as well as in teams.
• Critical Thinking and Decision Making: Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations and interpret data; ability to think critically and make logical, informed decisions independently without continual supervision; ability to think creatively and share ideas aimed at improving efficiency.
• Organization: Excellent organizational skills, accuracy, and attention to detail.
• Attitude: Demonstrated flexibility, positive attitude, and exceptional work ethic.

Preferred Qualifications

• Admissions experience.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions. Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others. We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life.