To thrive as a Director of Academic Advising, you need extensive experience in academic advising, a deep understanding of higher education policies, and typically a master's degree in counseling, education, or a related field. Familiarity with student information systems (such as Banner or PeopleSoft), data analytics tools, and FERPA compliance is important. Outstanding leadership, communication, and conflict resolution skills help you effectively guide advising teams and support diverse student populations. These qualifications ensure you can develop robust advising strategies, lead teams successfully, and foster student success across the institution.