International Student Advisor

**Position Job Title**: International Student Advisor

**Employment Type**: Full-Time, Permanent (Onsite)

**Reports To**: Student Experience Manager

**Overview**

**The University of Niagara Falls Canada (UNF)** is a subsidiary of GUS Canada and part of the Global University Systems (GUS) network. GUS is one of the largest education groups in the world; offering accredited bachelor's, master's, medical and law degree programs, vocational and professional qualifications, and language courses to approximately 100,000 students globally. GUS Canada has successfully introduced many innovative post-secondary institutions to communities across the country over the past decade, including University Canada West (Vancouver), the Canadian College of Technology and Business (Vancouver), the Toronto School of Management (Toronto), the Trebas Institute (Toronto and Montreal), and The Language Gallery (Vancouver and Toronto).

**Primary Purpose**

Under the direction of Student Experience Manager, the International Student Advisor plays a pivotal role in supporting international UNF students. This position will provide essential support, guidance, and advocacy for international students that will include financial, personal, and social matters. The International Student Advisor is key to the success of international students by supporting their transition to life at UNF and Canada. This will include introducing students to Canadian culture, heritage, customs and laws, and supporting their success through university life. This role works collaboratively with a team of Student Experience staff, along with other colleagues at UNF, to collectively provide robust support for international students, ensuring their smooth transition, holistic development, sense of belonging, well-being, and ultimate success at UNF.

**Specific Responsibilities**

**International Student Advising & Support**
- Provide pre-departure and settlement support, guiding international students and their dependent family members on travel logistics, health and well-being, and cultural adjustment.
- Advise students on Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) guidelines, including entry to Canada, study permits, taxation for foreign nationals, and work permits.
- Guide students in understanding financial obligations, budgeting, and accessing financial resources.
- Assist students in navigating academic policies, procedures, and campus resources.
- Collaborate with campus partners to develop an integrated approach to support at-risk students. Serve as a referral point for students in need.
- Programming & New Student Orientation
- Design and implement educational programs, including workshops and presentations, to educate students about Canadian culture, immigration issues, etc.
- Collaborate with campus resources and student organizations to organize culturally enriching events and celebrations, workshops, social activities, etc.
- Develop and deliver workshops on cross-cultural communication, diversity, and inclusion for both international and domestic student audiences.
- As a key contributor in New Student Orientation (NSO), collaborate with the Student Experience Team to create and facilitate a successful onboarding experience for new students. Develop and deliver orientation sessions on topics addressing the unique needs of international students.

**Communication and Outreach**
- Liaise with a variety of agencies such as Citizenship and Immigration Canada, Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), health care insurance companies, hospitals, police, religious institutions, etc. to enable international students to study and work legally and successfully.
- Conduct ongoing research to monitor changes implemented by federal and provincial departments that may impact international students, ensuring proactive adaptation to evolving regulations.
- Develop and distribute informational resources for incoming and current students, as well as UNF staff.
- Cultivate and maintain relationships with community resources dedicated to supporting international students and newcomers to Canada, contributing to a network of assistance and guidance.

**Administration & Other**
- Collaborate closely with Student Experience colleagues to provide integrated student services, supports, and resources to UNF students.
- Participate in a weekly rotation on the reception desk as a member of the Student Experience Team. Provide front-line student support, address queries and concerns, and make referrals as necessary.
- Conduct research on best practices, actively participate in professional associations and organizations, and engage with institutional and GUS Canada partners to stay informed and connected in the field.
- Take the lead on special projects and initiatives as assigned by the Student Experience Manager or other members of the UNF Leadership Team.
- Work collaboratively within a team to conceptualize and create space for new and innovative programming at UNF. Partner