Financial Literacy Coordinator

The mission of The University of Bridgeport is to promote academic excellence, personal responsibility, and commitment to service. Distinctive curricula in an international, culturally diverse supportive learning environment prepare graduates for life and leadership in an increasingly interconnected world.

Position Description Summary/Purpose:

A Financial Aid Literacy Counselor is responsible for assisting students in navigating the financial aid process, understanding available resources, and making informed decisions about their financial responsibilities. This grant funded position plays a vital role in empowering students to make informed financial decisions during their academic journey and beyond. The goal is to support students in achieving financial well-being and success.

Essential Job Functions/Primary Responsibilities:

(The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.)

• Student Counseling through one-on-one financial counseling sessions for students to address their individual financial concerns and goals. Assist students in developing personalized financial plans based on their academic and career goals.
• Budgeting and Financial Planning support for students by creating and maintaining budgets to effectively manage their expenses during their academic journey.
• Offer practical tips and tools for budgeting, saving, and financial planning. Guide students in creating and maintaining budgets to effectively manage their expenses during their academic journey. Offer practical tips and tools for budgeting, saving, and financial planning. Guide students in creating and maintaining budgets to effectively manage their expenses during their academic journey. Offer practical tips and tools for budgeting, saving, and financial planning.
• Provide information on student loan options, terms, and repayment plans. Conduct loan counseling sessions to help students understand the implications of borrowing and manage their student loan debt responsibly.
• Resource referral for students by connecting them with relevant resources, including scholarships, grants, and financial assistance programs and by providing information on external financial literacy resources and tools.
• Conducts all work in a safe manner and all work safety practices are followed.

Other Functions:

• Establish Financial Literacy Workshops and Seminars for specific student groups, such as first-year students, international students, or those entering specific academic programs.
• Policy Compliance through staying informed about federal, state and institutional financial aid policies and regulations.
• Assists other financial aid department staff as needed to promote a team effort. Assist students in navigating the financial aid application process, including completing forms such as the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Explain financial aid eligibility criteria, award letters, and other related topics.
• Collaborate with other offices such as Bursar, Advancement, and Admissions offices. Work closely with academic advisors, career counselors, and other campus departments to address the intersection of academic and financial goals. Collaborate with student organizations to promote financial literacy initiatives.
• Maintain accurate records of student interactions, counseling sessions, and workshop attendance. Generate reports on the impact and effectiveness of financial literacy programs.
• Continuous Professional Development by staying updated on changes in financial aid policies, regulations and best practices.
• Performs similar or related work as required, directed or as situation dictates.