Student Financial Services Office Assistant (Summer '25 900080)

As a Student Financial Services Office Assistant, your key responsibilities will include answering phone calls related to financial aid, greeting visitors in a professional manner, maintaining confidentiality according to FERPA regulations, processing mail, and managing appointment schedules for office staff. You'll also assist with filing and special projects, ensuring that the SFS department runs efficiently.

To be considered for the Student Financial Services Office Assistant position, candidates must demonstrate strong reliability and a commitment to excellent customer service. Being detail-oriented, well-organized, and able to articulate financial processes clearly is essential. Candidates should work well independently and be able to handle time-sensitive tasks while maintaining professionalism.

The training process for the Student Financial Services Office Assistant role includes a comprehensive two-week orientation focused on SFS policies and procedures. This initial training is essential to prepare you for phone and in-person interactions, and ongoing training will occur throughout the academic year to keep you updated and informed.

Yes, Student Financial Services Office Assistants can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year. There are exceptions during specific school breaks, such as February recess and Spring recess, where you may work up to 40 hours per week. It's important for student employees to stay within these limits to comply with regulations.

International students can apply for the Student Financial Services Office Assistant position; however, they must adhere to specific visa regulations. They are limited to working on-campus positions only and must not exceed 20 hours per week during the academic year unless there is a full school break where they can work more hours.

In your answer, emphasize your organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to maintain confidentiality. Provide examples of how you've effectively managed multiple tasks in high-pressure situations, which aligns well with the responsibilities of the role.

When answering this question, share your approach to conflict resolution, emphasizing patience and effective communication. Provide an example where you successfully de-escalated a situation, highlighting your commitment to customer service and professionalism.

Use this question to showcase your adaptability and eagerness to learn. Share a specific instance where you rapidly acquired new knowledge or skills, particularly emphasizing any experiences that relate to financial processes or office environments.

Here, reflect on your passion for helping others and your interest in financial services. Discuss how this role aligns with your career goals and how you see the impact of SFS work on students' lives.

Explain your method for prioritizing tasks, such as using lists or digital tools to stay organized. Provide concrete examples that demonstrate your ability to manage time-sensitive projects effectively while maintaining quality.

Discuss the importance of confidentiality, especially in handling sensitive information in the financial services sector. Explain how you ensure compliance with FERPA regulations and give examples of maintaining privacy in past roles.

When answering, illustrate your customer service skills by explaining how you would patiently listen to their concerns and provide clear, concise information to guide them through the steps they need to take.

Highlight relevant skills such as proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially calendar management, and familiarity with document coding systems. Discuss your capability with technology as a vital element for smooth office operations.

Share an experience where collaboration was key, emphasizing your role, how you communicated with team members, and the positive outcome of the teamwork. This will reflect your ability to work well in the Student Financial Services environment.

Discuss your organizational strategies such as utilizing planners, digital tools, or filing systems. Offer specific examples of how these methods have helped you manage busy periods and maintain efficiency in your work.