Job DescriptionUnder the supervision of the Assistant Director of Preprofessional Advising, this academic advisor meets with undergraduate students who are interested in pursuing specified preprofessional courses of study (e.g., medical, dental, pharmacy), in order to provide information and guidance on a range of academic issues, including admission to graduate programs in these health-related professions:
- Meets with students who are interested in pursuing specified preprofessional courses of study, in order to provide information and guidance on academic-related issues, such as graduation requirements and exceptions; major exploration; course planning and registration; transfer credit evaluation/substitution; and pre-professional program admission requirements and processes. Maintains students’ academic files that include a record of the advising activity that takes place during each visit.
- Identifies and implements strategies to further an important institutional goal: namely, to increase the number of students from underserved populations (e.g., women and students of color) who potentially apply to medical and other professional schools.
- Facilitates students’ academic progress by evaluating their needs and developing appropriate educational plans. Makes referrals for students who need assistance with overcoming learning obstacles, specialized tutoring, extended or intensive assistance with career decisions or similar needs.
- Develops and presents education programs designed to supplement or enhance academic preparedness. Collects and disseminates information to students, faculty, and departments about changes in major requirements or University policies and adjusts advising strategies as appropriate.
- Coordinates and/or participates in the advising-related portion of new/transfer students and parent orientation sessions.
- Serves on University committees and makes recommendations that affect curriculum requirements, advising processes and program development and published materials. May meet with representatives of preprofessional programs from institutions throughout the country.
- May plan and participate in continuing education for advising staff.
- May plan and execute annual, student-run PreMed/PrePA Conference. May supervise lower level advising staff and/or student employees and participate in hiring, training and evaluating those employees.
- May teach preprofessional courses at the University (e.g., Successfully Starting to Prepare for Admissions to Medical School).
- May need to work some weekends and evenings. Some travel may be required.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in a related area or equivalency required.
- Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills required.
- Previous experience in an advising, counseling or teaching environment is preferred.
- Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master's degree preferred.
- One year of academic advising experience
- Knowledge of undergraduate education issues
- Teaching experience in a higher education environment