DavisConnects Advisor for Law, Government, and Policy Professions

Job Description
Department:
Career Advising
Pay Rate Type:
Salary
Employee Type:
Job Summary:DavisConnects
Full-Time, Exempt, Salaried, Administrative Staff Appointment

DAVISCONNECTS :

Complementing its focus on a classical, broad-based liberal education that requires deep inquiry, hones critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and encourages curiosity and lifelong learning, Colby now integrates a set of universally available experiences into the academic program. Several opportunities will allow students to connect their education to the world and the great challenges of the 21st century while preparing them for future success in graduate schools and careers. DavisConnects guarantees a global experience for all students, making Colby the first leading liberal arts college to provide funding for every student to spend time abroad. Ultimately, Colby will connect every student to a facilitated and funded set of internship and research experiences, establishing Colby as a leader in global education and offering all Colby students an exceptional and unique set of opportunities that will deepen their education and improve their life outcomes.

THE POSITION :

Colby College is seeking a primary advisor for students and alumni interested in Law, Government & Policy professions, as part of a comprehensive student advising model integrating research, internships, and global experiences into their Colby student experience. The DavisConnects advisor will have a demonstrated interest or previous experience in Law, Government & Policy, partnering with directors and faculty and alumni who have expertise in Law, Government and Policy to help students prepare a roadmap to career development that includes both academic preparation and relevant pre-professional career training. The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic and visionary culture to advise students and graduates who express interest in exploring, preparing for, and pursuing higher education and careers in all levels of government (state, local, national, etc.), law, and the full range of public policy opportunities in the public and private sectors. We encourage inquiries from candidates who will contribute to the diversity of our College, including its cultural and ethnic diversity.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES :

• Primary advisor to students and alumni interested in areas of government, law, and policy professions, helping them assess interests, explore opportunities, and refine a plan leading to post-graduate success
• Provide coordination for law school applications
• Partner with key members of the Colby community (alumni/parents/volunteers) and other DavisConnects team members and partners to enhance subject matter expertise, to facilitate advising opportunities for Colby students, as well as to access job and internship opportunities in the law, government, and policy professions
• Serve as the lead organizer for the annual DavisConnects/Goldfarb Center for Public Affairs Hill-to-Hill career trek and facilitated internship program, and Law Day-type programs
• Advise first-year students as a member of the DavisConnects advising team
• Oversee all pre-law advising and programs, incorporating the most up-to-date knowledge of law school admissions requirements and application best practices
• Collect and analyze data, and track trends of Colby graduates pursuing law school
• Facilitate workshops and manage programs for target populations to include industry focused alumni panels, off-campus treks ( off-campus opportunities to explore career industries across the U.S.) and topical workshops
• Advise and critique on related law, government, and policy professions’ application materials and personal credentials, as well as facilitate mock interviewing and networking opportunities
• Advocate for underrepresented groups and diversity in government, law, and policy professions
• Assist students preparing for graduate school in law, government and policy
• Collaborate with the employer engagement team to cultivate national and international student research and internship opportunities in law, government, and policy
• Build and nurture relationships with academic departments, student groups, and other campus entities
• Work with Division of College Advancement colleagues to leverage contacts for the purpose of enhancing student programming and experiential opportunities
• Build advantageous relationships with related graduate and law school programs in the U.S. and abroad, as well as institutions and corporations leading to opportunities and programs benefitting students interested in the areas of law, government, and policy
• Develop ongoing knowledge of current industry trends and identify areas of opportunity growth for students and young alumni
• Serve as a representative for DavisConnects at various campus events including Admissions and Alumni events
• Perform additional duties as assigned; duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice

QUALIFICATIONS :

• Bachelor’s degree or the equivalent in education and experience; advanced coursework a plus
• Minimum of 3 years in advising and/or progressive responsibility in student advising in a liberal arts college setting; experience or demonstrated interest in a related professional field preferred
• Working knowledge of behavioral techniques for student interview preparation
• Strong interest or working knowledge of the requirements of law, government and policy graduate programs, application systems and procedures, and the selection criteria employed particularly by law schools, or experience in the law field preferred
• Ability to interact effectively with multiple constituents including students, faculty, alumni, parents, and employers
• Experience organizing, marketing, and executing events preferred
• Commitment to working with a diverse student population at a top liberal arts college
• Experience working with or advising diverse groups or students appreciated
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills combined with a professional demeanor
• Highly organized with extreme attentiveness to detail related to managing multiple tasks and projects simultaneously
• Proficiency in database systems as well as Google/Microsoft suites

• Valid driver’s license required and must meet the College’s Fleet Safety Policy requirements

KEY RELATIONSHIPS :

Reporting to the director of advising and working closely with other advising team members, this position will engage a variety of campus constituents, as well as the Colby Network to provide a best-in-class advising experience and student growth opportunities. This position also has significant interaction with all DavisConnects staff and academic department faculty.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS :

General open office and campus environment. Position involves sitting, although frequent movement is necessary. Computer usage involving repetitive hand/wrist motion is also necessary. Weekend and evening hours required. Some travel is required.

TO APPLY :

Interested candidates should apply electronically by clicking the "Apply" button on the Colby Careers website. Please submit a letter of interest including salary requirements, resume, and the contact information of three professional references. Materials should be addressed to:

DavisConnects Advisor for Law, Government & Policy Professions - Search Committee
Office of Human Resources
Colby College
5500 Mayflower Hill
Waterville, ME 04901-8855