SCWI Student Advisor

About the Position:

This is a temporary, part-time support staff position replacing a bargaining unit employee. This position will start in September and end in March . Working 24 hours per week at an hourly rate of $29.03 reporting to the Manager, Centre of Access Programs.

The incumbent will be involved in creating and implementing a transition program to assist SWAC students in the Lambton-Kent community in navigating the post-secondary education application process. The incumbent will be knowledgeable regarding continuing education programs, post-secondary programs, admission requirements for mature applicants, and OSAP funding. The incumbent will liaise with SWAC students and college services and supports. They will provide academic advising as well as connect students to community supports as a wrap-around approach.

The advisor will host college tours for students striving to continue their education. The advisor will act as a conduit to college student services and supports available to students in the SWAC program.

Specific Accountabilities:

•Establish close relationship with SWAC students
•Provide support to the SWAC Board Teachers
•Assist SWAC students with academic advising
•Provide students with an overview of college options and opportunities
•Make contact with each candidate to discuss options and what the barriers they may have and supports to overcome them
•Meet with high school students about to graduate to discuss future pathways and pre-requisites
•Gather information and data and present to the SWAC teacher to assist and prepare students with the interview process
•Assist SWAC students with College applications
•Provide OCAS application vouchers to students applying to college
•Help potential students identify and overcome barriers, such as daily living issues, mental health issues, financial discussions, program specific inquiries, etc.
•Direct and connect students to community resources for external supports.
•Set up opportunities for SWAC students to be students for a day in college programs, or connect them with Program Coordinators/ Open Houses and recruitment days.

Qualifications:

•Three-year diploma or degree in Social Work, Social Sciences, or Child and Youth Care or a diploma and experience in a relevant or related field is required;
•Minimum of two years’ experience in a student services or social services setting, including experience working directly with students;
•Experience providing direct case management and student support services;
•Data management experience is an asset; excellent computer skills with a demonstrated knowledge of Microsoft Office products, specifically Excel and Outlook;
•Empathetic and interested in student learning and success;
•Demonstrated ability to initiate, plan, coordinate and evaluate workshops;
•Knowledge of college and community resources;
•Well-developed problem-solving and assessment skills required to troubleshoot, problem solve and provide solutions to a variety of situations;
•Ability to work independently as well as liaising with College staff and Board partners;
•Demonstrated excellent interpersonal and communication (oral and written) skills to interact effectively with staff, students, board partners and parents are all essential;
•Understanding of the postsecondary learning environment, programs and services.