Academic Advisor I

Job Summary/Basic Function:

Provide academic advising, supporting students in navigating degree programs, understanding policies, and meeting graduation requirements ​

Department Overview:

The School of Public Service at Boise State University is a dynamic academic college dedicated to preparing students for impactful careers in public service, policy, and governance. It leverages its proximity to government agencies and nonprofit organizations to provide students with experiential learning opportunities. The school offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as political science, public administration, criminal justice, and environmental studies. Its interdisciplinary approach fosters critical thinking, ethical leadership, and problem-solving skills, equipping students to address complex societal challenges. With a commitment to public engagement and research, the school serves as a hub for dialogue and innovation in public affairs, benefiting both students and the broader community.

Level Scope:

Fully competent and productive professional contributor who applies acquired job skills, policies, and procedures to complete substantive assignments/projects/tasks of moderate scope and complexity. Works independently with general supervision; exercises judgment within defined guidelines and practices to determine appropriate action. May provide guidance and assistance to entry-level professionals and/or support employees.

Essential Functions:

80% of the time, the Academic Advisor I will:

● Utilize university systems to engage with students, document all advising interactions, and maintain accurate, up-to-date advising notes.
● Conduct required advising and registration sessions for new and transfer students during orientation and enrollment periods.
● Guide students in selecting courses aligned with program requirements and academic goals to ensure timely progress toward graduation.
● Assist students in navigating academic challenges by referring them to appropriate resources and helping them understand university policies and procedures.
● Participate in university- and college-level advising and student support events, including recruitment and outreach activities such as Bronco Day and Discover Boise State.
● Provide individualized, student-centered advising that promotes autonomy, academic engagement, and well-informed decision-making.
● Offer holistic support to students that fosters their academic success, personal well-being, and sense of community.
● Monitor student academic progress and adjust degree plans as needed to reflect changing goals or circumstances.
● Build and maintain positive advising relationships, creating a welcoming and supportive environment that encourages student connection and trust.

15% of the time:

Unit-specific responsibilities:

Serve as a member of the SPS Connect team, contributing to initiatives that facilitate student connection and community-building. Promote Experiential and Career Learning to SPS students. Partner with SPS Ambassadors to leverage their influence and knowledge to enhance outreach and support for students within the SPS community. Participate in a collaborative advising model to provide comprehensive support to students, ensuring they have access to the resources and guidance needed to achieve their academic and personal goals.

● Assist advisees in the navigation of degree requirements, course selections, university policies and processes, academic planning tools, and campus resources as they progress towards graduation
● Provide a holistic and student-focused advising experience for current and prospective students that fosters and promotes student autonomy and self-authorship
● Advise students over phone, email, and in-person while following FERPA guidelines and documenting each interaction in advising notes
● Serve as an advising and curriculum resource for faculty, staff, and campus partners
● Foster a team model of advising where responsibilities and workload are shared
● Complete various retention and data centered projects for the SPS Connect

5% of the time:

Other duties as assigned. 

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

● Knowledge of academic advising best practices, student development theory, and university policies and procedures.
● Skill in using student information systems and advising platforms to document interactions and track progress.
● Ability to communicate effectively with diverse student populations, both individually and in groups.
● Ability to assess student needs and provide appropriate referrals to academic and support services.
● Strong interpersonal skills to build rapport and foster student engagement and trust.
● Analytical and problem-solving skills to sup