Apr 23

Job: Study Abroad Advisor – James Madison University (Harrisonburg, VA)

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Via JET alum Carleen Ben. Posted by Jayme Tsutsuse (Kyoto-fu, 2013-Present), organizer of Cross-Cultural Kansai, seeking work opportunities in NYC starting in August 2014.
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Position: Study Abroad Advisor
Posted by: James Madison University
Location: Harrisonburg, VA
Type: full-time
Salary: $32,000

Overview:

The Office of International Programs (OIP) at James Madison University is accepting applications for a Study Abroad Advisor. The Study Abroad Advisor provides comprehensive advising, preparation, support and resources for all students in any stage of the study abroad process.

Primary Purpose of Position: 
– To advise students of the available opportunities for studying abroad
– To direct students to appropriate campus resources, offices and departments for approvals and eligibility
– To present, represent and market study abroad opportunities at information sessions, tables, fairs and other on and off-campus events
– To coordinate student orientation sessions
– To assist students in preparation for studying abroad
– To maintain accurate enrollment and registration records for the external and exchange programs
– To assist faculty program directors and coordinators of international programs
– To maintain resource materials regarding external and exchange programs
– To provide support to the Executive Director, Director of Study Abroad, Assistant Director of Study Abroad and the Director of Program Operations with special projects

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

1. Advises students on study abroad programs and opportunities.
– Meets with students during appointed walk-in advising hours and follow-up regarding questions and participation.
– Remains current on all JMU program information, but also obtains information and is able to advise on other programs, such as exchange, external and direct-enroll programs.
– Responds to advising concerns in a timely manner.
– Communicates OIP and university policies and procedures related to applications, participation confirmation, registration, financial aid, and/or acquiring transfer credit permission.
– Talks with students, parents, faculty and staff during study abroad fairs, OIP information sessions and university sponsored events.
– Meets with providers and connects interested students to their programs.

2. Supports enrolled students in the Study Abroad process.
– Advises and monitors students as they submit documents and forms to the OIP for study abroad participation.
– Helps to ensure students follow Registrar policies in regards to enrollment for study abroad coursework or credits.
– Coordinates and implements Pre-Departure Orientations to support students’ preparedness. Topics advised upon include enrollment, financial aid, cultural adjustment, health and safety, travel considerations and travel logistics.

3. Manages the exchange program.
– Advises and registers incoming exchange students.
– Oversee the application, acceptance and enrollment process for outgoing exchange students at their host university.
– Accurately tracks student mobility with the exchanges. Manages student balances according to agreements. Manages and reports financial balances with International Accounting.
– Coordinates and communicates with our exchange partners.

4. Coordinates and assists with Study Abroad marketing efforts such as the fall and spring study abroad fair, information sessions and class/residence hall presentations.
– Invites key constituents to the study abroad fair and other study abroad events. Prepares materials and logistics for events.
– Creates and updates promotional materials (websites, fliers, handouts and brochures) for the JMU community, making sure information is accurate and accessible.
– Secures rooms and speakers for information sessions.
– Ensures students are satisfied with the information presented during classes and residence halls.

5. Manages email communication via the Study Abroad Inbox.
– Responds to student, faculty and staff questions in a timely and professional manner.
– Identifies potential problems or concerns and communicates this information to the Study Abroad Team for troubleshooting.

Special Assignments:
– Manages resource materials related to study abroad.
– Serves on the International Week Committee, planning educational and social events related to international education.
– Liaises with partners, affiliates and providers. Supports and/or coordinates campus visits.

Qualifications:

• Knowledge of the study abroad process
• Knowledge of PeopleSoft
• Familiarity with Studio Abroad (preferred)
• Strong customer service skills
• Strong coordination and organizational skills
• Willingness and desire to work as part of a team
• Ability to maintain confidentiality in regards to student records
• Ability to problem solve
• Proficient in computer software programs, such as MS Office (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint)
• Ability to work with technology and social media outlets
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Master’s degree preferred

Please visit the job listing for more information and to apply.