Advising Assistant

at  Thompson Rivers University

Provides guidance to students with respect to education planning, academic goals and course selection. Provides instruction on admissions and registration processes to current and prospective students through interviews, assessment, online and group facilitation.

EDUCATION

• Four-year Baccalaureate degree from a recognized University

EXPERIENCE

• Two (2) years related work experience within a post-secondary institution or related educational environment that includes experiences such as educational program planning, advising or counselling, curriculum policy review

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE OR ABILITIES RELATED TO THE JOB

• Ability to communicate effectively to a culturally diverse audience, both verbally and in writing, including strong interviewing, listening and interpreting skills
• Understanding of cross-cultural communication; ability to interpret student needs
• Ability to use computer software and interfaces (i.e. Microsoft Office, student record systems, relational databases, scanners, social media)
• Effective research, analytical, problem-solving and planning skills
• Ability to work independently, as well as part of a team
• Ability to prepare and deliver oral presentations
• Ability to perform electronic word processing at 45 wpm and data entry
• Hold current B.C. class 5 driver’s license
• Ability to prioritize and handle conflicting priorities

• Acts as the first point of contact for receiving and screening student visitors, incoming calls, answering and redirecting incoming emails, providing information and directing students to appropriate areas; and providing assistance to students as they learn to navigate TRU. Develops materials pertinent to new student advising.
• Provides educational planning and general advising to new students.
• Provides advice and support for developing processes for application, registration and time-tabling.
• Identifies at risk students, either academically or personally, and provides support to connect with an Advisor and or Student Services.
• Responds to a variety of internal requests from faculty and administration for consultation regarding new programs, courses, and institutional policies.
• Tracks and handles online and in person appointment scheduling, gathers statistical information and produces reports, newsletters, spreadsheets and charts.
• Develops, promotes and conducts orientation and workshop presentations, both in person and through web-based technology.
• Assists with the development and assembly of background material for meetings.
• Books general meetings for advising staff.
• Oversees and supports the student helpers and provides timetabling support.
• Participates on institutional committees.