First-Year Admissions Counselor

Shenandoah University - Winchester, VA

Full-time - Entry Level

Winchester, VA

Educational Services

About the position

Shenandoah University's Office of Admissions is seeking a dedicated First-Year Admissions Counselor to join our team. This full-time position is based on our main campus in Winchester, Virginia, and plays a crucial role in recruiting students to Shenandoah University. The Admissions Counselor will manage all activities necessary to attract prospective students within a designated territory, ensuring that individual and team enrollment goals are met. This role requires a deep understanding of the assigned territory and the ability to develop effective recruitment strategies while providing exceptional service to prospective students and their families throughout the recruitment, application, and enrollment processes. As the first point of contact for many prospective students, the Admissions Counselor must build strong relationships through professional and timely communication. This position serves as a liaison between prospective families and various university departments, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and teamwork. The counselor will be responsible for the general recruitment of all academic programs, requiring both independent work and teamwork to achieve success. The Admissions Counselor will analyze past recruitment data to assess the effectiveness of previous strategies and events, using this information to create and implement new recruitment plans for the upcoming season. This includes proposing adjustments to past strategies, developing outreach campaigns, and planning events that engage prospective students and their families. The counselor will also review applications, exercising discretion and judgment to identify the best-fit candidates for admission. Additionally, the role involves representing the university at off-campus recruitment events, coordinating campus visits, and conducting admissions presentations and tours. The counselor will manage a series of Saturday visits and maintain communication with prospective families, ensuring a smooth recruitment process.

Responsibilities

• Manage all activities necessary to recruit students within a designated territory to meet enrollment goals.
• Analyze past recruitment data to assess the effectiveness of strategies and events.
• Create, implement, and execute individual recruitment strategies for the upcoming season.
• Propose adjustments to prior years' recruitment strategies and event schedules.
• Develop special outreach campaigns and new events to engage prospective students and families.
• Review applications and determine best fit candidates for admission.
• Notify applicants of their admission decisions.
• Represent the university at off-campus recruitment events enthusiastically and professionally.
• Assist in planning and executing campus visits for prospective students and families.
• Conduct admissions presentations and campus tours for groups and individuals.
• Participate in on-campus recruitment events throughout the year.
• Independently manage a series of Saturday Visits during the fall and spring.
• Maintain student records and communicate with prospective families.
• Coordinate recruiting programs for special populations, such as Presidential Scholars and performing arts auditions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree is required.
• Outstanding interpersonal skills are essential.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred.
• Familiarity with Apple computers and Microsoft software, including Word and Excel.
• Experience with admissions technologies, including CRM Slate by Technolutions, preferred.
• Attention to detail and ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Ability to adapt to and utilize various technology applications appropriately.
• Basic understanding of data usage to accomplish goals.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and travel overnight for an average of 12-18 weeks per year.
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs. into and out of a vehicle.
• Valid driver's license with a good driving record and ability to pass a driving background check.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in higher education admissions or recruitment.
• Knowledge of Shenandoah University's academic programs and campus culture.