Academic Advisor

Hiring Department

College of Arts and Science, Microbiology, Neuroscience, and Division of Biological Sciences

Job Description

The MU College of Arts and Science invites applicants for two academic advisor positions in A&S to support undergraduate students majoring in Biological Sciences, Microbiology, and Neuroscience.

These positions are based in the Math and Science Advising Center and are part of a collaborative, highly engaged team of professional advisors committed to student success. The advisors will support a diverse population of undergraduate Biological Sciences, Microbiology, and Neuroscience students, ranging from those exploring foundational concepts in biology and/or neuroscience to those pursuing competitive pre-professional pathways such as pre-med, pre-dental, pre-veterinary, and pre-physician assistant.

These students are drawn to the programs' flexibility, opportunities for hands-on research, and emphasis on scientific discovery. Advisors play a key role in guiding students as they navigate individualized academic plans, develop critical thinking skills, and prepare for careers or advanced study in the health and life sciences.

If you share a passion for empowering students to explore and develop in these disciplines and achieve their goals, please consider applying to this posting.

What Academic Advisors Do

Academic advisors help guide students through critical decisions regarding their academic planning. They provide complex, detailed information about degree requirements, refer to appropriate resources to support students in all aspects related to academic success, and commit to ongoing learning and professional development. The advisors in these positions will be required to have a working knowledge of University, College, and departmental requirements to help students make informed decisions about their academic plans.

The positions require strong critical thinking, attention to detail, and communication skills, as well as the ability to work independently while developing strong collaborative relationships with colleagues and students from a variety of backgrounds. Additionally, these positions will support recruitment and retention efforts for students in the College, as well as orientation and onboarding processes for new students. As such, the candidates will have to keep current with and regularly use technology to support student outreach.

The individuals must be able to exercise excellent professional judgment and discretion, making decisions regularly that impact student welfare and the institution.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide academic advising to undergraduate students in the Biological Sciences, Microbiology, and Neuroscience majors
• Counsel students about career resources, co-curricular activities, and resources necessary to support students' professional and personal interests
• Actively engage in professional development and continually engage in advising practices that support students from a wide range of backgrounds
• Maintain accurate and confidential electronic records of every student interaction, including in-person, phone, and online visits
• Collaborate with the Directors of Undergraduate Studies, Department Chairs, departmental faculty, Advising Coordinators, and advisors across the College on issues related to curriculum and student success
• Stay informed of current issues and trends related to college students' academic success, persistence, and career readiness through active professional development
• Serve on appropriate committees and represent department at campus-wide events, and participate in ongoing professional development

What We Are Looking For

The College of Arts and Science is looking for two dedicated, student-focused professionals. The necessary skills for these positions include:

• Ability to provide holistic support for all students
• Demonstrated experience providing direct, 1:1 support that requires patience and, at times, follow-through
• Attention to detail and the ability to master and synthesize complex details to best inform and guide students

Skills You Will Learn

• Technology:
  Advisors use multiple platforms, including student information/registration system, an early alert and scheduling system, degree audits, and others. The ability and desire to learn and successfully use multiple platforms is necessary.
• Theory and Practice of Academic Advising:
  Academic advisors engage in continual learning and professional development to support students with best practices.
• Curriculum and University Requirements:
  Academic advisors teach students about the curricular requirements, as well as recommend co-curricular opportunities.

Shift

Generally, Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm with occasional evening and weekend events.

Minimum Qualifications

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 1 year of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

A bachelor's degree in sciences, or a…