Accessibility statement

Being an ambassador

I'm Georgia and I have been an ambassador for almost three years now, since I applied in my first term at the University of York. I studied English Language and Linguistics as well as taking part in many societies and other part-time work/volunteering. I have worked so many different shifts, such as school visits, open and post offer visit days, events such as 'The big deal' with schools, graduation ceremonies, clearing phone lines, office and admin tasks, creating vlogs and blogs as well as being a residential ambassador (RA) on Next Step York summer residential and Shine Easter residential. 

A group of residential ambassadors enjoy an ice cream break on a trip to York city centre.

Working on the residentials was something I had to further apply and interview for and the in-person summer residential was one of the best weeks ever! It was super tiring, but I had so much fun running activities, supporting my group in academic sessions and making new friends.

I have learned so many new skills from all these different opportunities, as well as a lot of new information about universities in general as well as the University of York. 

Working as a student ambassador has helped me to feel much more part of the University community and I now pretty much know the campus inside out, despite not studying or living on Campus East! I have gained so much experience in areas I never even thought I would. I’ve worked in events, I've gained leadership experience after being in charge of groups of students, I now have experience in administration and receptionist duties, the list goes on! I have been able to tailor some shifts to my interests when creating materials such as posters, PowerPoints, vlogs and information sheets. I have really been able to bring out my creative side and do tasks that will aid me in my future career. 

I started out as a Student Ambassador thinking it was a really flexible part time job and a good way to make money (which it is) but I’ve learned it's so much more than that. It is one of the most enjoyable jobs I have ever had. It's a great way to socialise and make new friends, both the staff and student ambassadors are all such lovely people. It's also such a rewarding experience seeing the difference you can make to the lives of young people, or even just contributing to their enjoyable experiences when visiting the University. 

I would really encourage others to apply to be a Student Ambassador, as it has changed my whole university experience.

It is such a flexible job! You can fit it around all of your commitments, no matter how much or how little you do in your spare time. I would not have the depth of knowledge or the amount of friends I do now without it! I am truly sad to be leaving the University and all the colleagues I have worked with over the past three years. If I can offer any tips for the interview and application process, I would say be yourself, enjoy the experience and try to bring across your passions and personality.