Job Description Summary
Study Abroad Advisor
The Study Abroad Advisor guides students to align study abroad with their academic plans and professional goals. The Advisor oversees a portfolio of assigned study abroad programs and partner institutions, guides students through the study abroad process from inquiry to re-entry, and serves as the liaison to the partners in the portfolio. The advisor liaises with many campus faculty and staff stakeholders to ensure students thrive in study abroad experiences. The Study Abroad Advisor reports to the Executive Director.
The Cronin Office of International Education
The department oversees more than 600 Bentley undergraduate and graduate students abroad on academic year, semester, summer, and intensive faculty-led international courses annually. The mission of International Education at Bentley is to provide students with academically rigorous and culturally rich international experiences, preparing them for socially responsible leadership in an increasingly interconnected world.
Bentley is consistently ranked for undergraduate participation in study abroad, according to the Institute for International Education’s annual Open Doors report. The department consists of team members who value positive attitudes, outstanding advising, continual learning and improvement, collaboration as well as individual autonomy and initiative, and a sense of humor.
Essential Duties
Advising
- Promote study abroad to Bentley students through outreach. Host information sessions and tables; represent the department at campus events
- Develop a strong understanding of the academic structure of Bentley majors to effectively advise students to integrate study abroad into their curriculum to achieve their academic, professional, and personal goals
- Guide students to select appropriate programs and identify and apply for funding opportunities
- Review student applications, interview applicants, and determine acceptance decisions and program placements
- Create and deliver predeparture session content, independently and in collaboration with colleagues
- Advise students on course planning through curriculum interpretation at Bentley and partner institutions
- Manage course approval process; maintain accurate and timely course equivalency database
- Advise students on entry visa requirements; keep up to date on Consulate requirements and coordinate batch visa application processes
- Address disciplinary, emotional, or physical concerns with individual students to support preparedness
- Advise students experiencing adjustment difficulties (homesickness, housing concerns, course expectations, etc.).
- Resolve challenges that arise with students, parents, faculty and staff; manage communications and resolution with guidance of Executive Director
- Keep abreast of current events in assigned portfolio region to anticipate and respond to emergencies.
- Keep meticulous advising notes and records in office and campus systems
Program Management
- Serve as primary liaison to assigned partner institutions/affiliate organizations. Build professional relationships with partners for mutual benefit.
- Coordinate student enrollment and course registration according to each program’s requirements and deadlines
- Coordinate timely and accurate payments for tuition, housing, fees, etc.
- Ensure accurate and timely credit transfer process
- Build expertise in partner attributes and strengths to inform quality student advising and further potential for international partnership
- Problem solve challenges with partner institutions while building long-term relationships
- Create, maintain, and enhance partner agreement records.
- Monitor student success and identify needs for program and process improvements
- Monitor program evaluations and identify areas to address
- Maintain and enhance assigned brochure pages and webpages
- involvement in changes and trends in the field of international education
- Other projects as assigned
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree and two years' work experience.
- Sensitivity to cultural differences; familiarity with intercultural learning, cross cultural communication, and student development
- Experience in international education or student advising
- Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and access
- Clear and concise verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to communicate effectively with various constituencies diplomatically and professionally
- Superb attention to detail, initiative, and resourcefulness
- Excellent organization, time management, and prioritization. Ability to manage multiple projects and competing deadlines
- Excellent judgment and ability to anticipate and address issues proactively
- Willingness to work both independently and contribute as part of a team
- Strong presentation skills
- Fluency in English
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools
Preferred Qualifications
- Significant experience studying, living, working, or volunteering abroad
- Professional experience in a role that involves advising, mentoring, counseling, conducting orientations or other student services
- Master’s or professional degree in related field, or knowledge of theory and practice in areas such as student development, cultural adjustment, identity development, experiential learning, and intercultural communication
- Proficiency with Terra Dotta software
Work Environment
- Typical office setting with extensive sitting and computer work
- Some work and/or travel may occur outside of normal business hours for minimal evening or weekend responsibilities
Bentley University requires references checks and may conduct other pre-employment screening.
DIVERSITY STATEMENT
Bentley University strives to create a campus community that welcomes the exchange of ideas, and fosters a culture that values differences and views them as a strength in our community.
Bentley University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, building strength through diversity. The University is committed to building a community of talented students, faculty and staff who reflect the diversity of global business. We strongly encourage applications from persons from underrepresented groups, individuals with disabilities, covered veterans and those with diverse experiences and backgrounds.
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