Experienced GEAR UP College Advisor and Academic Support Specialist for Undergraduate Students – Career Guidance, Academic Preparation, and Transition Support

Introduction to Utah State University and the GEAR UP Program Utah State University, a premier land-grant and space-grant university, is committed to excellence, access, and inclusion. The university's STARS GEAR UP program is dedicated to providing academic preparation services to students and their families in partner school districts serving low-income communities. As part of this program, we are seeking an experienced and passionate GEAR UP College Advisor to support college freshman and high school seniors as they transition from high school to college. Job Overview The GEAR UP College Advisor will act as a mentor to oversee first-year college students associated with the GEAR UP program. The successful candidate will regularly meet with students, and at times parents, to discuss college-going strategies, help with class and major selection, answer questions about financial aid and scholarships, and assist with the transition from high school to college. This role will also involve collaborating with faculty, staff, and other GEAR UP officials to develop workshops, student events, rigorous educational opportunities, and connect students to the resources necessary for them to succeed in higher education. Key Responsibilities Meet with GEAR UP college students face-to-face to discuss updated GEAR UP information, personal well-being at school, grade checks, school information, game plans for improvement, and any other help needed Record each visit with individual students, tracking progress, grades, mental/emotional needs, completing data entry, and any follow-up with other GEAR UP support staff as necessary Help track down students who have transferred or decided to attend a campus different than the one we have on file Email, text, and/or call students to provide additional insightful information in helping them succeed at their given college/university Maintain your student list in the texting platform SignalVine and regularly schedule informative or helpful mass texts, as well as personalized texting to support students in their day-to-day college experience Collaborate with college/universities to be a part of their opening and ongoing activities for incoming freshmen Identify and share support services and resources to which freshmen have access Create and maintain a positive relationship with each college and university Develop and facilitate events and workshops for GEAR UP students teaching SEL and life skills that will help the students succeed Data tracking: keep records on each student and upload to SCRIBE database in a timely fashion (weekly, monthly, and end of semester) Maintain a relationship with the GEAR UP main office and other College Advisors to share success and lessons learned and collaborate on events, curriculum development, and strategies to meet GEAR UP goals Essential Qualifications The successful candidate will have a Bachelor's Degree in Education, Counseling, or a closely related field, plus two years of experience working with high school or college freshmen students. The ideal candidate will have excellent organizational skills, the ability to prioritize their own work, take initiative, and multi-task, with a strong ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Preferred Qualifications A Master's degree in Education, Counseling, or a closely related field is preferred, along with experience with college Financial Aid and student services administration, proficiency in event planning and facilitation, and experience with GEAR UP or similar federal grants/student service programs. Skills and Competencies The successful candidate will have the ability to prioritize their own work, take initiative, and multi-task, with excellent organizational skills. They will be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, with the ability to routinely and independently exercise sound judgment in making decisions. The ideal candidate will have knowledge of computers and database/spreadsheet/word processing software, with the ability to interact with students, faculty, staff, and/or the public in a professional team environment. Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits Utah State University offers a range of career growth opportunities and learning benefits, including professional development programs, mentorship opportunities, and access to a range of training and development resources. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work with a range of stakeholders, including students, faculty, staff, and community partners, and will be part of a dynamic and supportive team. Work Environment and Company Culture Utah State University is committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive environment where different perspectives, values, cultures, and identities are acknowledged, welcomed, and valued. The university provides a range of benefits and resources to support employees, including a comprehensive benefits package, professional development opportunities, and access to a range of wellness programs. Compensation, Perks, and Benefits The successful candidate will receive a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, plus excellent benefits. The university offers a range of perks and benefits, including a comprehensive benefits package, professional development opportunities, and access to a range of wellness programs. Conclusion This is a fantastic opportunity to grow your career as a GEAR UP College Advisor and make a real difference in the lives of undergraduate students. If you have the skills, passion, and experience we're looking for, please submit your application today. We look forward to hearing from you! Apply now and join our team of dedicated professionals who are committed to making a positive impact in the lives of students and their families. 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