To hire someone for an admission adviser's position at an university or college, most hiring managers look for a bachelor's degree as a minimum requirement. While there is no specific required area of study, a bachelor of science in educational studies is preferred in many institutions. Duties may vary according to the academic institution, but the main responsibilities include recruiting and advising students, analyzing data and assisting in the yearly enrollment process.
Recruitment
Admissions advisers recruit students for enrollment at universities and colleges through organizing and attending events on and off campus. These recruitment sessions are often assigned to targeted groups, including transfers, nonresidents or students interested in applying to specific academic programs. The role of the adviser is to provide prospective students with answers to questions about the school and admission procedures, providing promotional material and encouraging them to set up a session to further discuss interest in the school. Advisers may have to work long hours and travel across the country during the peak of recruitment season.
Creating Promotional Material
To attract prospective students, admissions advisers are often responsible for creating promotional material, including updating the website, designing fliers and brochures and distributing the material to the targeted audience. Many institutions include admissions advisers in marketing strategy meetings and use their assistance when recruiting current students to take part in promotional videos and providing brief testimonials for the school.
Collecting and Analyzing Enrollment Data
Depending on the school's admission process, an admissions adviser has to collect and analyze enrollment data. If the school has ongoing admissions, this process will occur throughout the year. However, if the school only has fall admissions, advisers may face a busy season once a year. Admissions advisers have to work with the department to come up with an effective system to gather, analyze and distribute incoming data, such as applications transcripts and personal statements. Advisers must be organized, tenacious and efficient to guarantee a smooth admission season.
Academic Advising
While admission advisers are mainly responsible for enrolling students into programs, they may also have to advise students by providing guidance in strengthening their application. For example, an adviser can point out weakness in an application to the prospective student, such as low GRE scores or lack of field experience. Advisers must be personable, knowledgeable and well-versed in computer applications, such as Microsoft Office and the student information software of the respective school, such as CampusVue or Banner.
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Writer Bio
Cooper Veeris holds a bachelor's degree in English from Fordham University and lives in New York City. In addition to contributing regularly to various websites as a writer, she has experience teaching different populations and age groups including early childhood, junior high and high school students, and adults living with mental illnesses.