McNair Advisor of McNair Scholar Program

Responsibilities

This is a grant-funded position

GENERAL STATEMENT OF JOB

Reporting to the McNair Director, the McNair Advisor is responsible for assisting with the administration and management of the federally funded TRIO Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program. The McNair Advisor is responsible for coordinating workshops / seminars related to graduate school preparation, advising program participants on matters of graduate study preparation, and training and supervising volunteers and part-time staff.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Assists the Project Director with administering all project services in accordance with University and Federal regulations;
• Provides individual advising and support services to McNair scholars throughout their entire undergraduate experience, as well as maintain active communication with project alumni;
• Assists with the annual recruitment, identification, and selection efforts to ensure that eligible participants are served each year of the program;
• Provides proactive and holistic coaching that identifies McNair scholars’ academic strengths and challenges, assesses their adjustment to the academic and social life on campus, and provides guidance regarding the pathways that lead to enhanced success in graduate school;
• Assist students with identifying resources to address personal, social, and / or relational issues affecting their pursuit of graduation, graduate study, and post-graduate career goals;
• Maintains regular, consistent, and meaningful contact with students, track student academic progress (GPA and credits completed), facilitates student progress meetings (related to research and degree completion status), and make referrals to other campus offices as needed;
• Coordinates and / or supervises scholars' services and project events for academic success, graduate school preparation and enrollment;
• Assists participants in securing research projects and summer research internships;
• Monitors the progress of project participants through the completion of a research project, including identification of and coordination with faculty mentors;
• Maintains comprehensive knowledge of graduate school admissions procedures, GRE testing, and resources, as well as national research presentation opportunities;
• Plans and implements cultural enrichment activities, graduate school tours, and research conference travel for program participants each semester;
• Maintains detailed and accurate, up-to-date participants' files and database records, including documentation of eligibility, academic records, advising notes, contracts, exit information, follow-up information, etc.;
• Develops and facilitates group meetings that are reflective and responsive to the development of college students interested in pursuing research and a graduate degree;
• Establishes and maintains campus wide relationships with students, faculty and staff members by conducting formal presentation regarding projects’ programs and services;
• Assists with the development and dissemination of program literature, information materials, and publications to increase program awareness;
• Collaborates with program staff to develop and manage social media accounts;
• Fosters a professional, welcoming environment for students, staff, and visitors;
• Performs other job-related duties and projects as assigned in support of the University’s mission, core values and goals as it relates to the McNair Scholars Program.

Qualifications

Successful candidate will have a master’s degree in education, counseling and guidance, psychology, or related field. At least two years of experience in advising, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities is required. Must possess knowledge of TRIO programs or other higher education academic support program progressing students to college completion. Must demonstrate an understanding of academic programs and support services to include scholarly advisement, engagement, and graduate school / career counseling for the target population. Evidence of experience advising students from diverse backgrounds is essential. Effective communication and interpersonal skills are critical. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to use technology. The equivalent combination of education and related work experience may be considered.

Supplemental Information

To apply, please include a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three supervisory references including the most recent supervisor.

Finalists for this position are subject to a background check. Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history and identity check.