Becoming a Student Ambassador

This article was written by Sustainable Product Design BA(Hons) student Rhiannon.

For the past four years, I have had the privilege of working as a Student Ambassador at Falmouth University.

My journey began as a Junior Ambassador in my first year, and eventually this led to roles as a Digital and Equity Ambassador, and a Senior Ambassador. Each role has not only enriched my university experience, but also equipped me with a diverse set of skills that I carry with pride. Reflecting on my early days at Falmouth, I vividly remember the Student Ambassadors who guided me during my initial campus visits. Their passion and knowledge had a significant impact on my decision to join Falmouth University. Inspired by them, I wanted to be that person for prospective students, helping them navigate their choices and fostering a sense of belonging at the university.

One of the most appealing aspects of being a Student Ambassador is the job's flexibility. The ability to choose my hours and balance work with my studies was unparalleled compared to other part-time jobs. The range of tasks— from conducting campus tours and participating in UCAS events across the country, to the graduation ceremonies, made every day unique and exciting.

My role allowed me to be involved in numerous events: Open Days and Campus Tours, which were crucial in developing my confidence and communication skills; graduation events, where participating in these celebrations was incredibly rewarding, especially when working alongside notable figures like Dawn French; and teaching and running workshops for young children through the National Saturday Club, which provided a fulfilling way to give back to the community.

As I transitioned to a Senior Ambassador, I embraced more leadership responsibilities. This role demanded guiding and supporting my team by applying the insights and skills I had gained as a Junior Ambassador. This progression was complemented by additional training, such as fire warden and first aid certification, which not only boosted my CV but also reassured by ability in the role. Specialising as a Digital Ambassador involved writing blog posts and participating in video projects, which aligned perfectly with my career aspirations in the design industry and honed my creativity and technical skills.

As an Equity Ambassador, running workshops and participating in the National Saturday Club were particularly fulfilling, allowing me to support children facing barriers to higher education, helping them develop their design skills and confidence. One of the most rewarding aspects of being a Student Ambassador has been the relationships I've built. I’ve made some of my closest friends and even met my partner through the ambassador scheme.