About the Department
The Admissions Counselor is an entry-level position in the Office of Admissions that oversees a general caseload of applications, and plays a critical role in guiding prospective students from inquiry to enrollment, shaping a holistic and personalized admissions experience for qualified students who would benefit from matriculation at the Pratt Institute. The position works closely with the Director of Admissions to design and deliver a wide range of recruitment and enrollment services.
As an essential member of the admissions team, the Admissions Counselor will manage a specific applicant pool, build relationships with students, families, and key stakeholders, conduct portfolio reviews, ensure seamless communication throughout the admissions process, and represent Pratt Institute at a wide range of events on campus and on digital platforms. The Counselor will maintain in-depth knowledge of the curriculum, facilities, faculty and alumni for each program. The ideal candidate is personable, self-motivated, and culturally sensitive, with an appreciation for the arts and strong organizational skills. The role requires a solution-oriented mindset, adaptability, and ability to learn data management, admissions systems, and educational trends.
Position Duties
- Student Advising, Support, and Relationship Building:
- Provide personalized, proactive guidance to prospective students throughout the admissions process
- Serve as the primary point of contact fielding communication to and from students, parents, and educators via phone, text, and email
- Answer questions and help prospective students understand eligibility requirements, admission policies, and their path to enrollment
- Maintain a strong understanding and accurate account of information about the academic programs, student services, financial aid processes, and the Pratt community
- Maintain multiple points of contact with students throughout the enrollment process to foster a sense of community and trust
- Participate in the decision-making process through advocating for students in the applicant pool, and by collaborating with admissions leadership
- Assist deposited applicants with the process of enrollment and the completion of required forms
- Serve as a liaison for the student with offices across campus including: student financial services, residential life, academic advisement, health services, academic support services, and the registrar
- Develop cultural awareness to advise students with empathy and understanding cultural nuances
- Application Management:
- Manage and process student applications with keen attention to detail
- Review application materials, credentials, and portfolios to determine eligibility for admission and scholarship in collaboration with admissions leadership
- Maintain proficiency in global educational systems to accurately evaluate international and domestic documentation
- Utilize CRM systems and databases to track student interactions and application statuses
- Maintain accurate and current inquiry and applicant records in Admissions databases and CRM
- Analyze data to make informed decisions on recruitment strategies and applicant pool management
- Stay current on industry trends and best practices of the profession of college admission counseling
- Recruitment:
- Propose and execute recruitment plans based on internal and external data and trends, representing the institution at college fairs, high schools, and community events, in-person and/or virtual in alignment with the Institute’s strategic goals
- Adjust travel plans as needed to meet recruitment goals and changes in regional needs
- Occasional domestic and international travel may be required
- Develop and maintain close working relationships with key secondary school constituents
- Event Planning, execution, and media engagement:
- Assist in the planning and execution of on-campus and virtual events, such as open houses, portfolio reviews, information sessions, admitted student days, etc.
- Collaborate with the social media team to ensure prospective students are engaged through various platforms
- Participate in promoting events, deadlines, and general admissions information
- Speak publicly, mingle, and engage with individuals and groups during in-person and virtual events, campus tours, and meetings
- Assist with office-wide projects as assigned, including but not limited to the yearly admissions gallery show
- Professional Development:
- Commit to consistent training to stay proficient in the institute’s degree programs, admissions requirements, policies, and technology systems
- Keep up to date with industry trends and best practices to remain competitive in the higher education space
- Support the training and mentoring of student ambassadors
- Other duties as assigned by supervisor
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree from a four-year accredited institution
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Proficient in or willingness to learn various databases and CRM systems
- Ability to think critically, analyze information, and make actionable recommendations
- Willingness and ability to contribute to a positive work environment fostering appropriate level of candor, respect, team collaboration, solutions-first focus
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time-management skills
- Self-motivated with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Cultural sensitivity and ability to engage with diverse populations
- Appreciation for the arts and curiosity to understand the institution's mission and creative disciplines. Interest in supporting the goals of higher education and the mission of Pratt Institute
- Ability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally
- Valid driver’s license
- Ability to support occasional evening and weekend events
Preferred Qualifications
- Valid passport
- Good sense of humor
**For consideration, please submit your resume and cover letter. If moved forward in the interview process, professional references will be requested.
Other Qualifications
Note: This role requires flexibility in travel, work hours, and tasks based on the dynamic nature of student recruitment and admissions events.