The Upper School Academic Advisor for 9th and 10th-grade students is responsible for guiding students in developing a robust academic portfolio tailored to their individual interests and strengths. The advisor will support students in identifying opportunities such as publishing academic and research papers, securing internships, engaging in volunteer work, and making connections with college professors. The goal is to provide personalized guidance that helps students build a competitive and comprehensive profile, preparing them for future academic and career success.

Key Responsibilities:

Academic Profile Development:

• Assist students in creating a personalized academic plan that aligns with their goals, interests, and strengths.
• Advise students on selecting appropriate courses to enhance their high school transcript.
• Regularly review and provide feedback on students' academic progress and portfolios, recommending improvements.

Research and Publication Support:

• Help students identify potential research topics for academic projects or papers.
• Guide students through the process of writing, editing, and submitting papers for publication in academic journals or contests.
• Offer resources for research opportunities, workshops, and relevant academic conferences.

Internship and Volunteer Opportunities:

• Identify and help secure local, national, and international internships and volunteer programs that align with students’ academic and career interests.
• Work with students to create resumes, cover letters, and other application materials for internships and volunteer opportunities.
• Develop and maintain relationships with organizations, businesses, and non-profits to open doors for students.

College and University Connections:

• Assist students in building relationships with college professors, researchers, and industry professionals.
• Facilitate opportunities for students to participate in college-level courses, research labs, or mentorship programs.
• Organize guest lectures, workshops, and networking events with higher education professionals.

Individualized Student Guidance:

• Provide personalized counseling and mentorship to help students define and achieve their academic and career aspirations.
• Meet regularly with students to evaluate progress, set academic goals, and offer ongoing support.
• Offer guidance on standardized test preparation, extracurricular activities, and leadership development.

Advisory Training and Collaboration:

• Train and collaborate with student advisors, who manage groups of 10-12 students each, to ensure consistency in advising and the development of strong student portfolios.
• Provide ongoing training and resources to advisors to support their advocacy for students and ensure they are equipped to help students build competitive academic portfolios.
• Work closely with advisors to monitor student progress, share best practices, and maintain a cohesive advisory structure across all student groups.

Parent and Faculty Collaboration:

• Maintain regular communication with parents and faculty to ensure a cohesive and supportive approach to student development.
• Work closely with teachers to monitor students’ academic performance and address any areas of concern.

Workshops and Group Sessions:

• Plan and conduct group workshops on research skills, publication opportunities, resume building, and internship application processes.
• Organize college and career seminars and networking events to help students prepare for future opportunities.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in education, counseling, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Experience in academic advising, college counseling, or working with high school students in an educational capacity and with publishing to research journals
• Knowledge of academic advising, college admissions processes, and career development strategies.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build professional relationships with students, faculty, parents, and external partners.

Skills and Competencies:

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to mentor and guide students effectively toward achieving their academic and personal goals.
• Familiarity with research methodologies, publishing platforms, and internship programs.
• Ability to manage student records and academic profiles.
• Enthusiasm for supporting students’ academic and personal growth.

About Saddle River Day School

Saddle River Day School, located in the hills of Saddle River, New Jersey, was founded in 1957. Its student body of over 450 boys and girls is drawn from communities across New Jersey and New York. The school includes a Lower School, Middle School and Upper School and offers classes from PreK3-12. Saddle River Day School is a non-profit, non-discriminatory, co-educational, college-preparatory independent day school accredited by the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools and the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Over 85% of the faculty hold advanced degrees.

Connections working at Saddle River Day School