Academic Advice, Consulting, Editing, Educational Administration, Fellowship, Higher Education, Mentoring, Multitasking, Presentation/Verbal Skills, Problem Solving Skills, Project/Program Management, Scholarship, Strategic Planning, Team Player, Time Management, Training/Teaching, Writing Skills
The Assistant Director of the Center for Fellowship & Scholarship Advising (CFSA) oversees Syracuse University's programming, recruiting, and advising in order to maintain our competitive presence in national fellowships. The Assistant Director conceptualizes, develops and executes recruitment, outreach sessions, writing workshops, and advising sessions for key national fellowships, serving undergraduates, graduate students, and recent alumni. The Assistant Director also works with the Director of Experiential Learning and Engagement on strategic planning for CFSA, including assessment, data tracking, and communications plans. The Assistant Director will conduct outreach directly to academic departments and faculty, will liaise with national fellowship-granting organizations, and will represent Syracuse University in the National Association of Fellowship Advisors (NAFA).
Education and Experience
- Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred. 3-5 years of experience in fellowship advising, academic advising, teaching, or related higher education work.
- Experience with national scholarship or fellowship application processes preferred.
Skills and Knowledge
- Some experience working with students in higher education setting, ideally advising or teaching, is required. Extensive experience editing written materials.
- Some experience applying for or advising national scholarship applications preferred. Strong verbal and written communications skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with faculty from across the university, and to liaise effectively with representatives from national foundations.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines, to perform effectively with a fluctuating workload and to generate a range of problem-solving approaches.
Responsibilities
- Develop and provide the framework for fellowship recruitment, advising, and application processes for Syracuse University undergraduate, graduate students, and recent alumni, reporting to the Director of Experiential Learning. Conceptualize, schedule and publicize information sessions and writing workshops as needed. Conduct high-touch, one-on-one advising sessions with student applicants to help them craft compelling narratives and ensure strong written materials. Prepare finalists for award interviews by coaching them and organizing mock interviews with faculty and staff. Develop best practices and guidelines for approaching applications. Consult and advise faculty to develop strong letters of recommendation.
- Assist with the development, evaluation and assessment of CFSA outcomes, including by developing strategies for efficient data tracking. Ensure the CFSA website is thorough, accurate and vibrant, and that publicity materials are effective and regularly updated.
- Develop and maintain links with academic departments and other relevant campus units to effectively identify and serve students who would be strong candidates for fellowships. Engage faculty and staff in the recruitment of fellowship candidates and maintain awareness across campus of fellowship opportunities.
- Liaise with fellowship-granting foundations and entities. Maintain membership in the National Organization of Fellowship Advisors and attend and participate in professional development events.
- Coordinate end-of-year event for CFSA scholars and mentors.
Physical Requirements
Not Applicable
Tools/Equipment
Not Applicable
Application Instructions
In addition to completing an online application, please attach a resume and cover letter.