FAQs
How do I become an Adviser for the NCAC?
Though the exact procedures for hiring and placing new NCAC advisers differ from program to program, all programs generally send out calls for new advisers in late winter or early spring of the academic year. Prospective advisers are asked to submit a resume, cover letter, and essay explaining their desire to become an NCAC adviser. The program director invites selected candidates to interview and, after meeting with a hiring committee, the new advisers are chosen. Through collaboration with administrators and guidance counselors at partner high schools and community colleges, program directors then place new advisers in high schools or community colleges to which they are well suited. For more information about how to become an NCAC adviser, please contact the program director for your institution and/or state.
Do I need to be a student or alumni from one of the NCAC Partner Institutions in order to become an adviser?
In general, yes. Under some circumstances, advisers may be appointed who are non-traditional students, or who may have graduated from other institutions. If you would like to be considered for an NCAC adviser position, but will not graduate from an NCAC Partner Institution, please contact the program director for your state.
Are there openings for advisers at my institution?
Because the NCAC is currently expanding rapidly on the state level, new NCAC adviser opportunities are available relative to the number of new partner schools each year. Though growth is not uniform across all states, there may very well be new opportunities at your Partner Institution. To find out, contact your state's program director.
What is the salary for advisers? Are there benefits?
NCAC salary rates and benefits are highly competitive when compared to other service-oriented non-profit organizations that employee recent college graduates.
What traits, abilities, and experiences does the NCAC look for when hiring new advisers?
Advisers must be genuinely committed to serving underrepresented students and able to work well with diverse populations. In addition, NCAC seeks advisers who are friendly, approachable, self-motivated, creative, enthusiastic, and passionate about higher education.
How long does service as an adviser for the NCAC last?
In general, we ask that NCAC advisers serve for two full school years. However, this practice varies according to each Partner Institution.
Is there an NCAC Member Institution in my state?
The NCAC is expanding at a fairly rapid rate. Currently, we have Partner Institutions in the following states:
- Alabama (University of Alabama)
- California (UC Berkeley)
- Georgia (University of Georgia)
- Illinois (University of Illinois, Springfield & Chicago)
- Maryland (Loyola College)
- Massachusetts (Tufts University/Massachussetts Campus Compact)
- Missouri (University of Missouri, Columbia)
- North Carolina (UNC-Chapel Hill)
- Pennsylvania (Franklin and Marshall College and Penn State University)
- Rhode Island (Brown University)
- Utah (University of Utah)
- Virginia (University of Virginia)
How can my college or university become the NCAC Partner Institution for my state?
We are constantly looking to reach the needs of students across the nation and potentially in Canada. If you would like to start an NCAC program at your institution, please feel free to contact our Executive Director, Dr. Nicole Hurd.
How can I arrange for my high school or community college to be served by the NCAC?
If you would like for your high school or community college to become an NCAC partner school, please contact the program director for your state.
Spotlight on Service
Paulin Cheatham was a part of the College Guide Program at the University of Virginia. While serving with the program, he had the opportunity to work intimately with students and their families, in helping them reach their goal of attending college.
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