International Student Advisor - Kamloops, Canada - Thompson Rivers University

Description

DUTIES

1. Provides first point of contact for information for all international students regarding issues related to cultural adjustment, study and work visas, health and mental care, medical insurance, and other aspects related to adjusting to living and studying in Canada.
2. Provides referrals to appropriate TRU and external services/stakeholders as necessary.
3. Act upon the emergencies related to the students at any time within Canada (including criminal offenses, hospitalizations, accidents and death).
4. Managing virtual communication channels and front desk support.
5. Corresponds with students, parents and overseas agents prior to departure; meets incoming students; introduces host families/students.
6. Assists with recruitment and promotional activities, educational fairs and other marketing related events.
7. Provides assistance for on and off campus housing and accommodation needs.
8. Identifies, visits, evaluates and approves homestay families and locations; matches students with host families; corresponds with host families and students.
9. Creates, assembles and provides information packages to students.
10. Provides liaison, support, advice and information between international students and their families, international, government and community agencies, homestay families, and University departments.
11. Provides translation and interpretation services on behalf of the students, their families and agents. Marketing and recruitment documents translation as required.
12. Assists international students with registration and timetabling.
13. Monitors students' progress; addresses any student concerns.
14. Organizes and presents workshops, informational sessions, special events including orientation, follow up orientation, graduation, language/cultural sessions and social events.
15. Immigration related support services including workshops and information sessions on a regular basis.

REPORTS TO
Associate Director, International Student Services and Study Abroad

EDUCATION:

• Completion of an undergraduate degree or four years of post-secondary education

EXPERIENCE:

• Four (4) years' related experience including a minimum of two years work experience in a client-centred, multi-cultural environment and a minimum of two years working or studying in a foreign country where the specified language is the primary language of communication

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE OR ABILITIES RELATED TO THE JOB

• Fluency with a foreign language (to be specified)
• Strong cross-cultural communications skills
• Understanding of the Canadian post-secondary education system and environment
• Regulated International Student Immigration Advisor (RISIA) qualification (preferred)
• Understanding of cultural adjustment issues
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs, social media and digital platforms
• Ability to perform electronic data entry
• Valid Class 5 BC Drivers License
• Ability to deal courteously and tactfully with students, staff and members of the general public
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
• Ability to operate related equipment
• Flexibility to work on weekends and after hours

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Working in close proximity with students, parents, host families, stakeholders and overseas clients in office and public settings
• Local and international travel