Graceland University seeks a passionate and data-driven International Admissions Advisor who will play a pivotal role in recruiting students to the University’s Lamoni, Iowa and Independence, Missouri, campuses. As part of this team, you will help to shape the future of the university by driving recruitment initiatives, building a diverse student body, and contributing to our vibrant, life-changing community. We are seeking applicants with a consultative approach to our prospective students, who have the ability to meet challenges head-on and creatively problem-solve for solutions, who have a results-driven mindset, and who are aligned with our commitment to building a culture of radical belonging for our undergraduate campus. This is a full-time position located in Lamoni, Iowa.
Key Responsibilities:
Drive Strategic Enrollment Goals:
Implement recruitment strategies in alignment with the Blue, Gold, and Bold strategic priorities.
Contribute to enrollment growth by focusing on target demographics and regions identified in the university’s strategic plan, with a commitment to increasing diversity and academic excellence.
Use data analytics and reporting tools to continuously monitor progress toward enrollment goals, adjusting recruitment tactics as needed to meet or exceed objectives.
Serve as Designated School Official (DSO) for Visa Issuance through the Student & Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS):
Perform SEVIS record maintenance, updates, and reporting to ensure compliance.
Review and analyze submitted documents to ensure accuracy, authentication, completeness, and adherence to specifications and compliance standards, including soliciting missing information and uploading required documentation.
Collect all documentation from prospective students required to create and process I-20 issuance.
Articulate the international student process to prospective students and families including I-20 issuance, visa application process, transcript evaluation, English proficiency, insurance requirements and pre-arrival information.
Maintain compliance according to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services and the Department of Homeland Security standards and regulations.
Utilize CRM (Slate) Effectively:
Manage prospective student data using Slate CRM, ensuring accurate tracking of leads, applications, and conversions.
Develop and execute campaigns using Slate’s tools, such as email marketing, event management, and communication workflows.
Analyze data from Slate to identify trends and inform decision-making, using performance metrics to report regularly on progress.
Achieve Measurable Objectives:
Set and achieve measurable enrollment targets for student recruitment, including application numbers, completed I-20 documents, and conversion rates.
Collaborate with the Vice President for Admissions and the Executive Director of Admissions to define KPIs such as inquiry-to-application conversion rates, application completion percentages, and yield rates.
Regularly review personal performance against established metrics to ensure goals are met or exceeded, with a focus on improving each recruitment cycle.
Represent Graceland and Engage Prospective Students:
Represent Graceland University at college fairs, visits, events, and virtual meetings. Up to 50% travel is required, including some weekends.
Cultivate relationships with international recruiting partners and prospective students, fostering connections that build the university’s reputation and drive enrollment.
Plan and host on-campus recruitment events such as open houses, campus tours, and admitted student days to give prospects a firsthand experience of Graceland’s vibrant community.
Collaborate and Work Effectively Across the University:
Partner with key internal stakeholders, including the director of the intercultural office, academic departments, and student services, to ensure a cohesive and welcoming experience for prospective international students.
Leverage cross-departmental insights to tailor recruitment strategies and ensure alignment with university-wide initiatives, enhancing the student experience from recruitment through to matriculation.
Have a Passion for Changing Lives:
Articulate the life-changing benefits of a Graceland education to prospective students and their families, with a focus on community, leadership, and holistic development.
Foster a welcoming, supportive environment that embraces Graceland’s core values of inclusivity, service, and personal growth.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) & Metrics:
Monthly and quarterly tracking of inquiry-to-enrollment conversion rates.
Year-over-year growth in new student enrollment.
Achievement of diversity goals in the student population.
Performance against regional recruitment goals.
Effectiveness of recruitment events, measured by attendance and post-event application activity.
Slate utilization, including CRM database health, lead nurturing, and response rates.
Benefits:
Competitive salary and benefits package.
Flexible schedule and work hours
Professional development opportunities to enhance skills in data analysis, recruitment strategy, and CRM management.
The opportunity to make a lasting impact by bringing students into a dynamic educational community that fosters growth and lifelong success.
How to Apply: Submit your resume and cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience as they relate to the role of International Admissions Advisor (formerly Counselor) and why you are the best fit for this new role and new team. Provide examples of times when you have overcome adversity and found success in your education or career.
Bachelor’s degree required
1-3 years of experience in admissions, sales, or a related field, with a demonstrated ability to meet and exceed performance metrics
Permanent Resident or US Citizen to fulfill responsibilities as a Designated School Official (DSO)
Preferred: experience with international recruitment and/or immigration processes, CRM platforms, preferably Slate, and strong data analysis skills
Willingness to work outside standard business hours due to time zone differences
Valid driver’s license
Proven track record of strong organizational skills, attention to details, and achieving measurable results in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
Ability to communicate cross culturally to establish strong rapport and build relationships with prospective students and their parents/guardians from diverse backgrounds as well as internal university stakeholders
Founded in 1895 with support from the Community of Christ, Graceland University is a private, four-year liberal arts university offering classes in Lamoni, Iowa, and Independence, Missouri, as well as across the country and the world through accredited online programs. Recognized by the Princeton Review as a “Best in the Midwest” from 2012 to 2020, at Graceland, we pride ourselves on providing a high-quality education to a diverse group of students who share a commitment to our values of learning, wholeness and community.