Student Support Services Coordinator

Job Title: Student Support Services CoordinatorReporting Relationship:Director of Academic AffairsExpected Starting Date: Monday, July 14, 2025Job Status:Full timeApplication Deadline: The position is open until filledAbout UsLocated in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, and following the successful launch of The Africa Institute in 2018, Global Studies University was established in 2023 as a non-profit institution for higher education by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al-Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. Read more .About the PositionThe Student Support Services Coordinator will be responsible for ensuring that students at the (GSU) receive the necessary support and guidance throughout their academic journey. This role involves managing day-to-day student services, including orientation, advising, and aiding academic, emotional, and logistical challenges. The coordinator will work closely with students, faculty, and administrative staff to develop and deliver a variety of programs and initiatives that contribute to student success and well-being.Key ResponsibilitiesAdministrative Duties:Carries out all duties with a high degree of accuracy, attention and confidentialityMaintain accurate records of student interactions, support services, and outcomesEnsure all student service processes are followed in compliance with university policiesEstablishes, maintains and updates filing system and recordsHandles logistics of planned events, such as travel, accommodation, catering, bookingsAssists in the preparation of lectures, seminars, and eventsStudent Orientation and Integration:Should be able to handle correspondence, such as letters, reports, memos, in both Arabic and EnglishAct as a first point of contact for students, when requested, and should provide adequate supportInteract effectively and professionally with all students and faculty inquiries and requests.Assist in providing the necessary information about the institute’s programs and services,Coordinate and facilitate orientation programs for new students, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary information and resources for a successful academic and social transition.Provide guidance on campus resources, academic expectations, and cultural integration for both local and international students.Advising and Academic Support:Offer academic advising to students regarding academic policies, and academic resourcesWork closely with faculty and other academic departments to identify students in need of academic support and connect them with tutoring, workshops, and other resourcesWell-Being and Mental Health Support:Develop and implement student well-being programs focused on mental health, stress management, and emotional resilienceRefer students to counseling or psychological services as needed and follow up on their well-beingStudents Engagement and Development:Organize and manage extracurricular and co-curricular activities that foster personal growth, leadership, and community buildingCoordinate peer support programs, mentorship initiatives, and networking events to encourage students engagement and collaborationCultural and Social Support:Provide culturally sensitive support to students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring their needs and challenges are addressed in a manner that respects and celebrates their uniquenessFacilitate workshops and events that raise awareness of cultural diversity and inclusion on campusCollaboration and Communication:Collaborate with faculty, staff, and external partners to ensure a holistic support system for studentsAct as the liaison between students and the university administration on matters related to student services and well-beingCrisis Management:Provide immediate support and guidance to students in crisis situations, including health emergencies, personal challenges, or academic difficultiesWork with relevant campus resources to coordinate appropriate responses to student crisesBe available to respond to student emergencies and critical events outside of regular working hours, ensuring timely and effective support when neededRequired EducationA minimum of bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is required e.g. Business Administration or EducationProfessional Experience5-8 years of experience in student support services, academic advising, or student affairs, preferably in a higher education environment.Experience in events coordinationExperience in working in a diverse environmentThe ability to communicate in English and Arabic is essential; knowledge of national culture and traditions is highly desiredCompetencies and SkillsKnowledge of university programs and operations, including Administrative and Academic Affairs, is preferredStrong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to connect with students from diverse cultural and academic backgroundsAbility to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks simultaneouslyA compassionate, empathetic approach to student