Senior Academic Advisor - Students in Transition (2 positions)

Job Summary

Under the limited supervision of the Managing Director for the Exploratory Student Success Center, the Senior Academic Advisor - Students in Transition supports the enrollment, retention, and graduation of former students returning to San José State University. The position provides holistic academic advising and success coaching to students navigating the process of returning to the university, selecting or changing majors, and re-engaging with academic life.

The Senior Academic Advisor builds rapport with students to ease their transition back to SJSU, supports persistence through academic and personal challenges, and connects students to appropriate campus resources. The incumbent develops and delivers programming, workshops, and materials designed to promote academic success and belonging, while also employing data-driven case management strategies to track student progress and implement timely interventions. The Senior Academic Advisor plays a key role in closing equity gaps and improving outcomes for diverse student populations by fostering a supportive, inclusive, and proactive advising environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide holistic academic advising and success coaching for former students returning to SJSU, including those previously disqualified or on academic notice.
• Assist students in creating individualized academic goals and educational plans aligned with university requirements, policies, and career aspirations.
• Guide students in navigating institutional procedures such as reinstatement, petitions, course withdrawals, and major selection.
• Monitor student progress using case management systems (e.g., EAB Navigate), track outcomes, and implement early interventions.
• Collaborate with campus partners including Undergraduate Education, Admissions, Registrar’s Office, and college advising units to support seamless student re-entry.
• Develop and implement workshops and programming to enhance academic skills (e.g., study strategies, time management, communication with instructors).
• Design and execute communication plans that align with campus deadlines and support cycles to increase student engagement and retention.
• Analyze advising data to identify trends and make recommendations to improve advising processes and student outcomes.
• Participate in student success initiatives, orientation, and events that promote engagement and a sense of belonging among returning and continuing students.
• Identify and refer students experiencing financial, housing, or personal challenges to appropriate support services.