Summary of Student Ambassador Program:
The University has established a volunteer student ambassador program as part of its prospective student outreach program. This program provides selected current UniSA students with the opportunity to participate in university representational activities. Student Ambassadors need to be confident, have good communication skills and demonstrate initiative. It is also imperative that you are enthusiastic, positive and honest about your UniSA experiences.
The aims of the ambassador program are to:- Provide a valuable marketing/communications related development opportunity for current students
- Provide an opportunity for secondary school and other prospective students to have direct contact with successful role models
- To assist the university in managing the increasing demand for representation in a variety of forums
Who are Student Ambassadors?
Student Ambassadors are undergraduate students who are usually in their second or third year of study. They are confident, have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, are flexible, pro-active and able to present themselves well. They need to have a positive but realistic approach to University life and be willing to work as a member of a team. Students Ambassadors will be required to promote the University and should offer appropriate and unbiased advice, so that prospective students are aware of the choices open to them. Student Ambassadors should share their own experiences but should always bear in mind that each student will have a different reason for wanting to go to a particular university, whether it is because of the course, location or recommendation.
Role of Student Ambassadors
- Work with young people to encourage, motivate and inspire them to commence, continue and complete their studies successfully.
- Actively participating in Open Days, information evenings, school visits and other events as requested by the Division or the DSR Team.
- Meeting and helping visitors to the university, for example parents and students.
- Provide students and parents with an insight into university life and study based on their own experiences.
- Provide students and parents with information on application and admission processes, the range of UniSA's programs and student services available.
Student ambassadors can be expected to provide this information at:
- Open Days
- Secondary school career evenings and expos
- Preference information events
- Nominated campus tours for prospective students
- Division / School based events and information evenings
Level of student involvement
- The Student Ambassador program is available to second and latter year students who are achieving satisfactory progress
- As a Student Ambassador, it is not expected that any one student ambassador should participate in the scheme for more than 30 volunteer hours per calendar year
- No student ambassador is expected to continue in the program for more than three years
- Student Ambassadors are not expected to attend any recruitment event or activity without the supervision of their coordinator (where the Divisional coordinator is not able to be present, a member of the Domestic Student Recruitment team may be able to supervise -this arrangement must be requested in advance and approved by the Manager, Domestic Student Recruitment)
- A student ambassador cannot undertake the duties normally required of a paid staff member
The Student Ambassador Obligations
- It is expected that a Student Ambassadors will be able to commit to the program for the entire year
- Student Ambassadors will be required to attend training workshops, professional development opportunities and meetings scheduled by the Division or the Domestic Student Recruitment Team for the Student Ambassador Program
- If selected, it is required that Ambassadors work approximately 5 events over the duration of their role in a calendar year
- Student Ambassadors must not have a disciplinary record or be currently under charges within the University judicial system
- Student ambassadors may be approached for assistance with other university activities and events
- Student Ambassadors must make a commitment to the mission of the University and the Student Ambassador Program and possess the following personal qualities: Desire to learn, Enthusiasm, Leadership, Responsibility, Dependability, Maturity, Initiative, Dedication, and Punctuality.
Reward and recognition
- As part of the program, student ambassadors will be provided with:
- University clothing and merchandise as is available and appropriate to the role
- The opportunity to participate in divisional and university wide marketing meetings as relevant
- Professional development opportunities such as a seminar on presentation and representational skills
- A certificate of recognition from the Vice Chancellor (or the relevant Pro Vice Chancellor)
- Recognition of their contribution to the Student Ambassadors Program on their academic transcript. (in negotiation)
What are the benefits of being a Student Ambassador?
- Gain valuable experience in public speaking and professional communication, which are sought after skills by many employers.
- Meet new people and build your network of contacts.
- Demonstrate your willingness to actively seek personal and professional development opportunities and take on a volunteer role, both traits sought after by many employers.
- Access professional development training in a variety of areas.
- Receive training to equip you for the Student Ambassador role.
- Receive a Certificate of Involvement and Letter of Recognition to add to your CV
- This is a volunteer position but opportunities for further paid casual employment within the University could arise as a result of the program.