Advice for Applying to the International Student and Scholar Advisor Position at Northeastern University

Are you passionate about supporting international students and scholars in their journey to thrive academically, personally, and professionally? If you have a background in international education, knowledge of immigration regulations, and a desire to join a globally connected institution like Northeastern University, this opportunity may be perfect for you. Let’s break down the job description and determine how you can approach your application from an international education perspective.

Getting Started: Research Northeastern University

Northeastern University is renowned for its experiential education model and global reach, with over 13 campuses worldwide. Understanding the university’s mission to integrate academic excellence, cultural diversity, and global collaboration will help you align your application with its goals. Visit the Northeastern Office of Global Services website to familiarize yourself with the resources available to international students-which will be a core part of your role. Consider emphasizing how this global and multicultural scope excites you and connects to your career goals in your application.

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Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter

To stand out to the hiring team:

• Highlight International Education Experience: Showcase any prior roles where you’ve supported international students or scholars. If you’ve worked with F-1 or J-1 non-immigrant status, include specific achievements such as streamlining processes, improving retention rates, or creating effective orientation programs tailored to international audiences.
• Showcase SEVIS Expertise: Since experience with the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is required, detail the ways you’ve used it, whether for maintaining compliance, generating reports, or training others on its use. Use data to quantify your impact whenever possible.
• Feature Key Job Skills: Adapt your resume to highlight the required qualifications, such as knowledge of F-1 and J-1 regulations, your ability to multitask and manage high caseloads, and your strong intercultural communication skills. Include software proficiencies in tools like Microsoft Office, SUNAPSIS, or similar platforms.
• Include Global and Intercultural Experiences: This role values intercultural understanding, so be sure to include any study abroad, work abroad, or international experiences you’ve had-including language skills. These can give you an edge in connecting with students and scholars from diverse backgrounds.

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Prepare for the Interview

If you’re invited to interview, use the opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm for the role:

• Understand the Responsibilities: Be ready to discuss how you would manage student advising, immigration compliance, and OGS collaborations. Show that you’re up-to-date on federal immigration regulations and have strategies for addressing issues such as employment authorization or acculturation challenges.
• Use Real-World Examples: During the interview, provide examples of challenges you’ve encountered in advising international students and how you resolved them. This could involve helping a student troubleshoot a SEVIS record, guiding a scholar through visa processes, or implementing an orientation program.
• Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: Highlight your ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment while collaborating with a larger team. Share examples of how you’ve balanced multiple tasks while maintaining attention to detail and compliance with institutional or government policies.

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Additional Advice for International Education Professionals

If you’re applying from an international education background, here are some tips to make your application even more compelling:

1. Tailor Your Application to the Role’s Global Context

As Northeastern’s global network continues to expand, emphasize what excites you about working with a university that values international mobility and global engagement. Highlight how your expertise can contribute to the institution’s initiatives to enrich the international student experience.

1. Show Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Emphasize your ability to engage with a diverse student population, including your capacity to build connections across cultural differences. Share specific examples of how you’ve helped foster a more inclusive environment for international students and scholars in previous roles.

1. Understand the Role of a DSO/ARO

If you’ve worked as or with a Designated School Official (DSO) or Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO), emphasize your experience with regulatory reporting, federal compliance, and liaising with U.S. government agencies such as DHS, SEVP, USCIS, and DOS.

1. Leverage Global Perspectives in Problem-Solving

Share how your intercultural experience has equipped you to understand and address the unique needs of students navigating life in the U.S. Highlight creative solutions you’ve developed to help students overcome barriers, such as obtaining Social Security Numbers, applying for driver’s licenses, or adjusting to a new academic environment.

1. Demonstrate a Growth Mindset

Be sure to convey your willingness to continuously learn and grow, whether it’s staying updated on immigration policies, adapting to new technology, or exploring new ways to enhance the international student experience.

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Additional Resources to Prepare Your Application

• Explore the SEVIS Resource Center: Refresh your knowledge of SEVIS compliance and reporting by visiting the SEVIS website and reviewing updates on F-1/J-1 regulations.
• Professional Networks: If you’re not already a member, consider joining NAFSA: Association of International Educators to access resources, connect with peers, and gain insights into best practices in international student advising.
• University Policies: Familiarize yourself with Northeastern’s academic structures, policies, and programming to demonstrate your preparedness for working within this dynamic institution.

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Why Northeastern University?

Northeastern stands out for its dedication to fostering academic excellence and global citizenship. As a university committed to innovation and diversity, it offers unique professional development opportunities for its staff. By joining Northeastern, you’ll be part of a community that’s reshaping the future of education on a global scale.

Ready to Apply?

Be attentive to the application instructions outlined in the job posting. Submit your résumé, cover letter, and any supporting materials via the Northeastern Careers Portal. Tailor your application to articulate how your qualifications, international experience, and passion align with the responsibilities of this role.

Good luck-you could be the next key contributor empowering Northeastern’s vibrant international community!