International Student Success Advisor

Description

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Position Title

International Student Success Advisor (ISSA)

Location

Hybrid

Job Summary

The International Student Success Advisor (ISSA) serves as a dedicated guide and advocate for international students, providing holistic support from enrollment through graduation. Under the direction of the Director of International Affairs and Director of Student Affairs, the ISSA blends academic advising, immigration guidance, and student engagement to promote academic persistence, cultural adjustment, and long-term success. While not directly responsible for SEVIS record processing, the ISSA maintains a strong working knowledge of F-1 regulations to help students understand and meet their compliance responsibilities while completing all degree requirements and staying on track to graduation. This role proactively identifies students who need additional outreach, connects them to appropriate resources, and collaborates across departments to improve retention and create a seamless student experience that reflects Westcliff University’s mission to educate, inspire, and empower a global community.

Duties And Responsibilities

• Provide accurate, timely, and compassionate guidance to international students regarding academic progress, university policy, and general immigration regulations related to maintaining F-1 status.
• Conduct individualized advising sessions to review course registration, academic goals, and degree progress, integrating cultural and personal well-being discussions as part of a holistic approach.
• Monitor student activity and academic performance to identify at-risk students and intervene early through personalized outreach and success plans.
• Support students in understanding work authorization benefits and procedures (CPT, OPT, STEM OPT) and connect them to official Designated School Officials (DSOs) for SEVIS updates when required.
• Aid students with challenges related to cultural adjustment, health insurance, time management, and financial literacy; connect them with internal and community resources.
• Conduct withdrawal and re-entry counseling to retain students and support their successful re-engagement when possible.
• Collaborate with faculty, Student Affairs, and the Registrar’s Office to ensure alignment between academic progress and immigration requirements.
• Lead or support group sessions, workshops, and orientations focused on maintaining status, cultural transition, and academic success strategies.
• Participate in and occasionally lead student engagement initiatives, cultural programs, and networking events to strengthen community and belonging.
• Contribute to a shared repository of advising tools, success plans, and referral resources that promote consistent and student-centered service.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support departmental and institutional success.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities Required

• Strong understanding of U.S. F-1 student visa regulations, including knowledge of SEVIS processes (direct SEVIS access not required).
• Excellent interpersonal, cross-cultural, and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive student cases with discretion, empathy, and professionalism.
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Forms).
• Commitment to fostering student belonging, retention, and overall success in a diverse, global university environment.
• Able to work collaboratively across departments and communicate effectively with faculty, staff, and external partners.
• Experience using student information systems or CRM platforms preferred.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings or weekends for events or time zone needs.
• Able to lift/carry loads between 25–50 lbs occasionally.
• Some travel between campuses may be required.

Education And Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Counseling, International Relations, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• Minimum 1-2 years of experience in student advising, international student support, or related higher education field.
• Prior experience advising international students strongly preferred.
• Previous exposure to SEVIS or F-1 compliance processes preferred.
• Study abroad or international living experience highly valued.
• Experience in intercultural communication, academic counseling, or student engagement preferred.