The International Student Advisor is a key resource and primary contact for international students, providing comprehensive support and guidance in immigration-related matters and holistic support inside and outside the classroom through their academic experience at KGI. This position ensures institutional compliance with U.S. federal regulations governing international students, maintains accurate records, and offers detailed advising on visa statuses, employment authorizations, and student holistic well-being. The advisor will serve as a Designated School Official (DSO) for the F-1 visa program and work closely with various departments to address international students' academic, social, and administrative needs.
Keck Graduate Institute (KGI) was founded in 1997 as the first higher education institution in the United States dedicated exclusively to education and research related to the applied life sciences. KGI offers innovative postgraduate degrees and certificates that integrate life and health sciences, business, pharmacy, engineering, and genetics, focusing on industry projects, hands-on industry experiences, and team collaborations. KGI employs an entrepreneurial approach and industry connections that allow students to become leaders in healthcare and the applied life sciences.
Located in beautiful Claremont, California, KGI is a member of the Claremont Colleges, a consortium of five undergraduate liberal arts colleges, two graduate institutions, and The Claremont Colleges Services, which provides shared institutional support services. Each nationally recognized college has its own campus, students and faculty, and distinctive mission, and each offers top-notch curricula, small classes, distinguished professors, and personalized instruction. The Claremont Colleges consistently place at the top of national college rankings, including Forbes, Money and U.S. News and World Report, and the Princeton Review.
Education and Experience:
A Bachelor's degree is required, and a minimum of 2+ years of experience working in an institution of higher education, with at least one year of experience advising international students as a Designated School Official (DSO).
Essential Functions and Responsibilities: Individuals must possess knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the essential function of the position, or be able to explain or demonstrate how the essential functions may be performed, with or without, reasonable accommodations, using some other combination of skills and abilities.
Designated School Official (DSO) Responsibilities and Advising (60%):
Under the direction of the Director of Admissions;
Serve as the institution's DSO and ensure compliance with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) regulations.
Provide detailed and accurate advising to international students on F-1 visa regulations, ensuring compliance with federal immigration policies.
Communicate regularly with students, prospective students, and applicants via email, phone, and in-person meetings to address questions and provide guidance.
Provide advising and support in all admissions and recruitment activities related to international students.
Prepare and issue I-20, update and distribute documents, and ensure accurate student records.
Assist students with processes related to employment authorization, including Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT), and other applications.
Advise students on health insurance requirements, immunization requirements, institutional policies, and federal deadlines.
Conduct federally mandated government reporting by compiling and submitting data through SEVIS and other required systems.
Utilize CRM and SIS systems for tracking international students, updating records, and submitting reports.
Monitor alerts and notifications related to international students' immigration status and take appropriate actions as needed.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date student records, ensuring compliance with all SEVIS requirements.
Conduct audits and data reconciliation to ensure accuracy, resolve discrepancies and prepare for SEVP site visits.
Stay current on changes to SEVIS regulations and emerging trends related to international students in the U.S., ensuring the institution remains compliant with evolving federal policies.
International Student Programming (20%): Under the direction of the Director of Admissions;
Collaborate with academic departments and other campus departments to address the unique needs of international students and promote a culture of diversity and inclusion.
Support Student Affairs in the planning and implementing events, workshops, and orientation programs for international students.
Support Student Affairs in the retention efforts to support international students throughout their academic journey.
Manage calendar and communication plan for all international student activities and services to enhance student experience.
Assist with developing and documenting policies and procedures to improve services and support for international students.
Collaborate with Career Services to support international students in their process to secure internships/employment.
Serve as the KGI representative on the 7C ISCPC committee.
International Student Support (10%): Under the direction of the Dean of Students;
Facilitate opportunities for students with F1 Visa to secure employment on campus (including the 7Cs)
Serve as the primary support staff for international student wellness (including navigating and securing housing, food, etc.)
Promote acclimation resources available to incoming international students through KGI and within the community.
Actively connect with students to ensure international students' mental, emotional, relational, and physical wellness.
Respond to any wellness check submissions related to international students.
Other (10%): Under the direction of the Director of Admissions and Dean of Students;
Work on special projects and tasks assigned by the Director of Admissions, Dean of Students, or KGI leadership.
Participate in events and engage in activities to support the success of all KGI students, prospective students and applicants.
Other duties as assigned
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Individuals must possess knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the essential function of the position, or be able to explain or demonstrate how the essential functions may be performed, with or without, reasonable accommodations, using some other combination of skills and abilities.
Knowledge of SEVIS reporting requirements and F-1 immigration regulations.
Experience with data management and reporting in SEVIS.
Strong organizational and problem-solving skills with an ability to manage multiple tasks and projects.
Proficiency in using office technology, including Microsoft Office Suite, project management tools, and communication platforms.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Highly detail-oriented with the ability to maintain accuracy in a fast-paced environment.
Strong interpersonal skills, a positive, welcoming personality with demonstrated customer service experience.
Ability to maintain the highest level of confidentiality.
Ability to lift 20 pounds/participate in light set-up for recruitment and on-campus events.
Hours, Classification, and Status:
This is a regular, full-time, benefits-eligible, non-exempt position.
The regular hours of this position are Monday-Friday, 8:00 am-5:00 pm. Hours may vary due to the needs of the College or department.
Hourly rate range: $29.00 -$31.00. The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty, and training.
Special Requirements
Keck Graduate Institute has implemented a SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) and Influenza Vaccination Program for all employees and students. To comply with the policy, employees must submit proof of vaccination or an Institute-approved exception or deferral.
Physical and Mental Requirements
Ability to maintain good concentration level while dealing with interruptions; attention to details with emphasis on accuracy; capable of giving, receiving, and analyzing information, formulating work plans, and articulating goals and action plans. Sitting in a normal seated position for extended periods of time. Standing for extended periods of time. Reaching and extending hand(s) or arm(s) in any direction. Finger dexterity required to manipulate objects with fingers rather than the whole hand(s), or arm(s), for example, using a keyboard. Communication skills using the spoken word. Ability to see within normal parameters. Ability to hear within normal parameters. Ability to bend and stoop, for example, to file. Ability to move about. Ability to lift and carry short distances up to 20 lbs., for example to lift or move office supplies, files, and participate in light set-up for recruitment on and off campus events.
Ability to drive locally. Occasionally, will be required to stand for prolonged periods of time at activities/events on and off-campus.
To Apply:
A confidential review of applications, nominations, and expressions of interest will begin immediately and will continue until an appointment is made. To be ensured full consideration, please upload a letter of interest, resume, and three professional references. Minority candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
Equal Employment Opportunity Policy:
Keck Graduate Institute is an equal opportunity employer. It does not discriminate against qualified employees or applicants based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, marital status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable state or federal law. Equal employment opportunity will be extended to all persons in all terms and conditions of employment. KGI strongly encourages candidates from underrepresented groups to apply.
The Claremont Colleges, a consortium of five undergraduate liberal arts colleges, two graduate institutions, and Claremont University Consortium, which provides shared institutional support services, is reminiscent of the Oxford-Cambridge model. The undergraduate colleges include Pomona College, Scripps College, Claremont McKenna College, Harvey Mudd College, and Pitzer College. The two graduate institutions include Claremont Graduate University and Keck Graduate Institute.