Soon, I’ll be starting an advising position in the Career Center. Previously I was a student worker at a university and remembered intense it was for those working full time. Granted, at that school it wasn’t exactly organized and the work load was intense due to lack of staffing?

I’m just curious to know of peoples experience working at a Community College and would like some advice about going into higher ed in general. Especially, when it comes to making more money in the field.

So I just started working in financial aid at a community college and my boss is letting me order some organization things for my desk area. Currently there’s this huge paper holder (like 24 spaces) and we’re really wanting to get rid of it, but I do need something to replace it. We do have papers that we keep on hand (and a lot of them). Looking for something small with labels.

How do y’all keep papers organized?

How do y’all keep from burning out? This is my first time as an admissions counselor and I’m completely drained. I feel like I have nothing to give. Between extremely rude students, the long days, the extreme pressure to get as many enrollments possible, I cry at my desk every day. I’m remote and I like the benefits of having a job that is stable, but I don’t get to travel, I don’t have any real connections with the students and they make it completely impossible. How do y’all get over this?

Curious if anyone can provide insight into potential reasons that people with similar titles and responsibilities, but in different offices within a division or a different division entirely, take home vastly different salaries.

Yes, I know there are across-the-board raises and longevity pay, etc. But from a budgetary standpoint, why would someone with “Coordinator” in their title in Student Affairs have a lower starting salary than a coordinator in a student success office (for example).

Please explain it to me like I’m in kindergarten.

Hello everyone. I’m hoping to get some insight and advice. I am feeling torn between two masters programs that I got admitted to. The first one is in my hometown and it is student affairs and college counseling. The second is out of my hometown and is in counseling but with an emphasis in career counseling. Thjs program is a clinically embedded program that allows their graduates to pursue LPCC licensure. Whereas my hometown program is non clinical. As a pyschology major, I was initially unsure what I wanted to do. But as I gained more relevant experience in student services, it really sparked my interest and passion to serve students, understanding how challenging college can be. I have always had an interest in doing therapy though and possibly working with particular demographics. I like the program out of town because I can stay in student affairs (given it’s an emphasis on career counseling) or I can go clinical if I pursue licensure. The drawback is that the program out of town is three years and will cost me more (factoring housing and what not) and my hometown program will cost less and I live at home with my family. The thing that I also consider is my earning potential at the end of both programs, one that is non clinical and only within student affairs, and the other that can lead to both. I would really like some insight or opinion on what might be the best choice. And if there are any factors I’m not considering.

What is the best generic job title for someone working in a University Hostel under students affairs department. Please, kindly help out. Thanks for your prompt response.

Hey all. Due to some reasons I can’t go into a lot or specific details, but will give as much as I can.

A few months ago I was terminated. I had already been job searching prior because the place was toxic and my supervisor was part of the culture. Legal is now involved on my behalf.

I am still applying for the same types of jobs and the same region as before the termination. Before being let go I was hearing back nearly every school for at least a first round. Now I’m not hearing anything, even when it’s months after a position has closed.

My former supervisor and their cohort of people at their level are very connected in the field and region, and im starting to wondering if I’m being blackballed.

I’m struggling to understand why I’m not getting callbacks now. I’ve had professionals look over my materials and everything (paperwork wise) is strong. I know I can get nervous in interviews, but that wouldn’t impact initial contact.

I just don’t know what to do.

I have been tasked with revamping the student newsletter for my university but I am honestly at a loss of what to do. In the past, it's been an email newsletter that students never really opened or looked at, plus a few posts on the university's instagram story (which is still happening and working well). Does anyone have any clever newsletter-like things that they do that they've had success with? I just feel like students aren't checking their emails (especially from a university entity) and I am not sure how else to reach students. TIA!

I have a job interview coming up for a private corporate housing company that manages on campus student housing. I’ve only ever worked for schools directly. Has anyone here interviewed with a private firm before? Can you share what their process looks like? I’m wondering if it as long and exhausting as higher education processes; long waiting, multiple interviews that end in a day long on campus.

TIA.

I'm currently looking into alcohol/cannabis/rx drug education options to use for online conduct sanctions.

We've looked at some different options and none fit well with our needs. We are a small rural school and costs (as always) are a concern. We have demo'ed with ScreenU, Vector (AlcoholEdu), 3rd Millennium, and Alcohol101+. Are there other options out there you all uses besides these systems and BASICS/CASICS? Alcohol101+ is great, but only covers alcohol and we are looking for those additional substances also.

Hello! I wanted to come on here to ask for advice on I should move going forward in the situation I’m in. I have my bachelors in English w/ a concentration in creative writing. I applied to go get my masters in student affairs but unfortunately I was not matched with a job site for an internship.

I tried applying for other positions but they were either filled or post graduates decided to stay. The most advice I got was to try and gain experience at university/colleges. I’m just hesitant to try due to the fact that I don’t have much experience in higher education, the most I do have is being a peer mentor for an after school program. The whole experience has honestly been a bit disappointing simply due to the fact that I actually thought I had it in the bag. Even when asking for criticism I was told I was a strong candidate, I’m just feeling a little discouraged.

Should I still give it a try or look through for a different avenue?

Hello everyone! I am currently a first-year social studies teacher looking to apply my skills outside of the classroom and enter the realm of higher education. Particularly, I am interested in possible job opportunities as an academic or admissions advisor. I have a couple of questions for those of you out there experienced with the field, and was hoping you could answer!

1. I noticed that several of these positions ask you to be willing to work weekends and evenings. How often do either of these occur?

2. I am very interested in traveling (I LOVE 12+ hour drives) and I noticed that this is a big thing in admissions. How often do you have to travel, and are you reimbursed for it.

3. While I am content with taking a entry-level salary in my position (~$60,000 in my area), I would a career that offers potential promotions either within the system or by applying those skills somewhere else. Is this field good for that?

Thank you all in advance!

I lost my temper with a member of student government. This was after they repeatedly ignored my instructions, kept trying to get different answers from others on my team, and then went behind my back to contact counsel’s office for an ‘emergency review’ of a contract for an off campus party, after they proposed to hire me or my assistant for a cheap hourly rate to staff their party for them. I angrily called them into my office and told them I was furious. They whined and raised their voice with me and I raised my voice and told them that their behavior was foolish and would get them in trouble in the ‘real world’ and demanded a written apology. I immediately felt so foolish and ashamed that I didn’t keep my cool. I clearly frightened the student as she cried. I apologized and explained why I was so frustrated and we ended the meeting on seemingly OK terms.

Feeling disrespected was no reason for me to flip my lid. I’m so embarrassed and ashamed.

Update: student went to the boss. I explained what happened and they told me it’s fine, whatever I learn they hope it leads to me staying as long as possible. Student wasn’t satisfied that I didn’t get in ‘trouble’ and went to another lower level boss, smh. I definitely learned from the experience. 1) It’s ok to make a mistake and 2) some people just can’t hear you or (anyone else) so Let.It.Go.

Hello! I've been thinking about going back to grad school for student affairs. I had initially looked into it right out of college, however life took me on a weird journey post COVID and now I'm revisiting it.

I currently work in admissions at a cosmetology school, and I've previously served as an AmeriCorps member in a higher Ed office. Through researching different schools I came across online programs. I know these are meant for people working in the field already so they still get the hands on practice and experience.

I'm mostly reaching out for input on if my current work/work history would lend well to an online program, or if I would better benefit from an in person program. I don't want to start an online program if it won't benefit me, but most in person programs have just begun wrapping up interviews/applications.

Since I began college I have had a hard time picking with career path to take, but now that I’m getting ready to finish my bachelors I am interested in working in higher ed/ student affairs. I’ve had many jobs on my college campus working in academic offices, student leadership and residence life, so I already have some experience working in student success and I enjoy it. I will be pursuing a masters degree in the fall, and I know that you don’t always need a masters for higher ed jobs but I do see myself going for a phd in education to become a dean or president down the line. Because I see this (currently) as my end goal, would it be best for me to get an MBA or an MPA? I don’t want to get a masters in higher ed because knowing myself I will want to branch out to different fields and might not want to work in higher ed forever. Even though I can’t nail down a specific career my main goal is to be an advocate and a representative for others, wherever that is possible. Sorry for the long post lol, but does anyone with an MBA or MPA have any advice?

ok so idk anyone else to ask so i guess ill come here. i graduated with my BA in psychology and i really want to be a college advisor. i was reading that getting my master's would be a waste of time and money since it doesn't really guarantee much.

i want to know where exactly should i start now? where do i apply or what job opportunities should i look for specifically? im only 23 and sadly do not have experience in like... anything )): but i reallyy want some guidance or advice so if u know anything or have this career path please help !! thank u!

Hello all! I have been working in higher Ed in many different rolls for 10 years now. Mostly student employment, graduate assistantships, and part time classified positions. Ive only been full time for three years as an academic advisor and now as a coordinator of an academic coaching program.

I wouldn’t say I’m fully burnt out right now, but I know this work is not sustainable for my mental health. So, I’m thinking ahead 3-4 years and thinking about completing another masters in clinical and mental counseling. Visualizing I will be working for myself, taking clients virtually, having more control over my schedule, working with people directly, and less accountability of an entire program riding on my shoulders!

Anyone have experience working as a therapist, but also have experience working in higher education to provide any perspective?

Hey All,

I hope you are doing well. I was reaching out to ask about the extensions on campus portion of many interviews. I have been thankful to make it to the final round in a few different process, that being said, in every process I’ve been asked to do a 6 to 8 hour on campus process for entry level positions. Through all of these it feels like the same exact interview/ sets of questions with 5 different groups of stakeholders (some being barely related to the position). This at times can be frustrating because it takes entire days away from my current position and can lead to a university not offering with this time commitment. So overall my question is why does higher ed tend to go this route with interviews and is there a reason student affairs / higher ed interviews feel a need for this process to follow this order instead of a more traditional format (say 3 3 hour interviews)? If someone could give me a better understanding it would be very helpful!!

Hi folks,

I'm likely going to be pursuing part time PhD or EdD (self funded) in Ontario (fall 2024). Are there awards, scholarship or bursary options that can be explored for someone working full-time?

Hi all,

I'm going to refrain from sharing certain information to protect the privacy of all parties involved. Hopefully, the information I do provide is sufficient. I'm currently pursing a masters degree from a reputed university in London. Last week, someone from a consultancy reached out to me on LinkedIn and asked if I'd be interested in being an admissions consultant for someone else looking to get into the same course. They're offering to pay me $1500 for 15 hours of my time, which sounds too good to be true.

I researched the company and they seem legit with a website and fairly active (but not popular) social media pages. I also got on a call with the person who reached out to me and they said they'll send a contract for me to sign sometime next week.

This sounds too good to be true and I'm wondering if there's a likelihood that this could be a scam. I have several questions. Why me? How did they choose to reach out to me, instead of the several other students currently pursuing the same course? What credibility do they have that I'm going to be a good consultant? I have zero professional experience with it.

How do I go about this? Right now, I'm thinking the worst that can happen is that I lose 15 hours of time, which I'm fine with considering I might actually help someone with their admissions process.

Any help will be appreciated.

I'm currently facing a tough decision and could use some advice. I have two months to decide between pursuing a PhD in Sociology (Soc) or Higher Education Leadership and Policy (HELP) at Howard University. Both programs offer similar funding, faculty-student dynamics, and incoming cohorts. However, my research interests lie at the intersection of both fields, focusing on the role of culturally responsive education models in carceral settings.

I'm passionate about teaching, managing collegiate community partnerships, and delving into education policy. I want to make an impact in these areas and contribute to positive changes in our education systems.

Could anyone share insights or experiences with either program? Which program would you recommend for someone interested in addressing societal issues, social justice, and education policy within higher education institutions and carceral settings?

For context, I was an advisor for 3.5 years prior to my current role. I am currently more of a retention specialist. I have been here for close to a year and a half, and I think it’s my time to move on. Realistically, I’d like to go back to advising. I feel a bit of guilt because I plan to make this move officially by August, if all goes well.

I feel guilty for a couple of reasons. One, I don’t know if to mention I am looking for a new position. As we know, higher ed is a small world, so I think it be easy to catch on if I were looking. Second, it be going back to an advising position. As I mentioned, I was an advisor and loved it, but I felt I needed a change. That being said, I truly miss the work I use to do. My boss has insinuated that it be a step back, but as someone who would like to lead an advising department in the future, I think that’s where I should be. Third, is the planning. We are planning upcoming terms, and a lot of it does revolve around some of the work I do.

That being said, I do work in a good department, good school, and have a great team. I just don’t feel at home anymore, if that makes sense. It goes without saying that I don’t plan to take a pay cut, and the position would have to be convinient for me as well. I am wondering how people have handled situations like this before.

Any tips would be appreciated.

Do you think the emphasis on volunteerism and professional development in higher education jobs is excessive? It seems like it's become more of a mandatory aspect rather than an occasional commitment. Many individuals end up dedicating more time to volunteer work unrelated to their immediate job responsibilities than their actual job. Additionally, at my workplace, the criteria for permanent placement and tenure regarding "community involvement" are vague, with no clear expectations set. Yet, there's a constant pressure to volunteer, and failure to do so is often perceived as neglecting one's duties. This situation feels like the exploitation of labor. I come from the private sector where it was often fround upon to volunteer or work outside of projected hours due to HR and Legal.

I want to give a presentation during an interview for a residence director role about my experiences . Would this help my chances getting this role?

Hello fellow job-havers,

I'm using a throwaway for extra anonymity, just in case. I'm currently working at a large R1 university, but I'm wanting to jump ship. Long story short, I just don't like this job. I did like it at first, and I do like some aspects of it, but it's just not for me long term. My supervisors (and coworkers) know that I've been in a weird transition period with thoughts of returning to grad school, but I haven't yet told them I've decided to go back full time. Truth is, there's a million reasons why I don't want to work this job anymore. My only issue is....

Other people in similar roles are generally expected to stay on for about 2 years. I wasn't given any bonuses or anything, so there's no official 2 year commitment, but I feel so bad for leaving after only a few months. I know that my students, supervisor, and coworkers will understand, but I am just nervous for the response I'll get. I will certainly be bringing this up with my therapist, but I would feel better getting advice from others who are actually in this field and know what's up.

Hi there!

So I am at a point in my life where I want change. I've been a line cook for a couple of years and have been looking back at my time at college where I was an RA for 2 1/2 years, the president of the student activities board, and other things. Before COVID, I decided that I wanted to be a Resident Director or even a student activites advisor. I tried to go into the field but only had one school offer me a campus interview before the shutdown. I sadly didn't go back before I got my Bachelors in Culinary Science, thought that was what I wanted to do with my life, but have now decided to pursue ResLife four years later.

I am worried that my degree won't help me get a job in this field. I was I could get some advice and made a path to look towards to help me out.

Thank you all!

Hi,

I am interested in breaking into the Disability Services field and wondering if anyone in the field would be willing to answer some of my questions:

- How do you handle conflict when professors challenge accommodations?

- What are the rewards and challenges of your position?

- What advice do you have for someone with K-12 experience trying to break into this field?

- What interview questions should I prepare for?

Hi y’all,

I’m currently a second year in grad school in the process of interviewing for my first jobs. There’s only one other graduate assistant at my institution, and we’ve been sharing updates on our hiring process since we’re not looking at any similar positions. I am a bit confused because they haven’t seemed to be getting any response from their applications. We both have assistantships in Residence Life, and they also previously worked in a different student engagement office. They are looking to shift into DEI and programming. I’ve always been planning on staying in Residence Life, and I’ve gotten several first and second round interviews in the last few months, while they haven’t heard back from a single school. I know a lot of schools have their own timelines with hiring, but it just seems very strange, since I feel like they’re incredibly qualified and some of the schools they’ve applied to are smaller. Is DEI/student engagement just a more competitive office than I initially thought? Do any of y’all have advice that I can offer to my colleague?

I am a distanced education student and my school mistakenly gave me military funds over a course of several terms that has now amounted to over 4k (I called to find out what was happening with financial aid as something seemed off and this is what was discovered after they investigated). When I started they told me to accept all awards so they could be applied to my terms and so I did. this is my first time doing distanced education so I was following the advice of the financial aid department. Fast forward to now, the school is saying I am responsible for paying that back. So, they are taking the majority of my disbursements now to pay the 4k back. So they are taking $500 and I was supposed to recieve around $300. I just got my newest disbursement and it was just under $200. When I emailed I was told they changed the tuition rates (which I feel should have also been found at the same time as the original issue) and so that is why it's much less. When the discovery was made it frustrated me because I had been in contact with financial aid and my advisors since the beginning since distanced education is something very new to me so I was making sure on a regular basis prior that everything was okay and handled accordingly. I asked if this had happened to any other students and they said yes but not to this extent. I just need to know if they can take from my disbursements to do this or websites that give some clarity on issues like this. I haven't been able to find anything and the information on the FSA website is a little confusing to me. I don't plan on leaving the school as it is for my bachelors degree for a career I desperately want, and have made good grades for almost a year now to the point of being on the honor society and deans list. Maybe this has happened t someone here before and they can give me advice on how they handled it. For the record, I use my disbursement to pay for a computer I needed as they said my original wouldn't be able to hold the load of school assignments and the internet that I use to attend as well as part of the electricity bill so the disbursement helps a ton.

I applied to and got into a masters program at the school but am really interested in getting a job to offset the tuition (private school) and would kind of like to get a response on that before putting down a deposit. Is a week too short to follow up with HR? I have 2 years experience working in an admissions-type role and just don't want my application to get lost.