Academic Advisor

Job Summary

Lamar University’s Undergraduate Advising Center (UAC) is administratively located within the Division of Enrollment Management, and the Academic Advisor position reports to the Team Lead, Associate Director of the Undergraduate Advising Center, and ultimately to the Senior Director of Advising. The position is an entry-level academic advising role that fits the initial academic advising level within the organizational structure of the UAC. The Academic Advisor functions under the mentorship of Senior Academic Advisors and the Team Lead based on the Meta Major.This position is responsible for providing comprehensive academic advising and student success support to an assigned cohort of students. An Academic Advisor in the UAC advises freshmen and sophomores on campus undergraduate students within a cohort of majors. The position focuses heavily on enrollment, re-enrollment, and departmental and academic requirements for lower-risk students. This role assists a cohort of students in student success by aiding in identifying any root causes of issues, providing information, and referring students to University resources that can assist in meeting their needs.

Essential Job Functions

• Assist students throughout their journey at Lamar University, from initial enrollment to graduation, including course support, referrals, and skill-building for success.
• Provide personalized academic advising and support, helping students with decision-making, goal setting, and academic planning.
• Advise students on course selection, educational opportunities, academic requirements, and university policies, ensuring compliance with state mandates.
• Participate in committees, special projects, and university events, contributing to academic advising outreach and ongoing departmental assessment activities.
• Track and record student interactions, monitor academic progress, and report pertinent data to supervisors using advising systems and technologies.

Minimum and Desired Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree required.
- 1 year of experience in academic advising or related experience.
Desired Qualifications:
- 3 years of advising experience or a related role within higher education.
- Experience in providing counseling or support to students.

Supplemental Information

Key Competencies:
- Maintain a high level of dependability, professionalism, and customer service.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including active listening and clear presentation of information.
- Effective decision-making and problem-solving skills, using sound judgment, discretion, and diplomacy.
- Promoting team collaboration and the ability to build relationships with faculty, staff, and students.
- Develop and expand academic advising strategies and assist students in navigating university policies and procedures.
Physical Requirements:
- The physical requirements require the ability to sit for extended periods, as much of the work involves desk and computer tasks.
- Other physical requirements include being proficient in using a computer, typing and navigating computer software, and the ability to read and interpret emails, documents, and written materials.
Job Conditions:
- This role is primarily performed in an office environment, typically working Monday through Friday, with occasional times to be flexible.
- There may be some travel involved, but limited to on-campus activities, conferences, or professional development opportunities.