Study Abroad Ambassadors

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Mission

To forge positive relationships between domestic and foreign students, and facilitate intercultural learning in a fun atmosphere. To provide support and guidance to fellow peers while promoting education abroad opportunities.

Ambassador Experiences

All Study Abroad Alumni are encouaged to share their study abroad experience, regardless of whether or not you decide to become an ambassador. Check out our past student experiences page and email us if you have a story to share! Past Study Abroad Ambassador planned events have included a bbq for exchange students, a trip to six flags, a visit to a haunted house, lunch in the loop, a resume writing workshop exclusively for ambassadors and alumni, and more!

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Responsibilities

As an Study Abroad Ambassador your main role is that of a mentor for assigned incoming international students, providing them with firsthand knowledge of the university life, coursework, social networking, and student life in Missouri/USA. As their mentor, you will help them become more acclimated and involved on-campus. Sharing of your own personal experiences, fears, and accomplishments through your time abroad give you a chance to ‘relive’ your memories and help new students understand how to cope with and make the most of their experience at UMSL!

You will also be able to serve as a Peer Mentor by sharing your experiences with other UMSL students and offering preliminary advice to potential applicants.

Study Abroad Ambassadors also participate in both Promotional and Social events including the Study Abroad Fair every Fall.

PROMOTIONAL:

Participate in at least one study abroad promotional event throughout the semester. Some examples are helping to plan and work our Study Abroad Fair or Open Houses, participate on a Study Abroad panel or outgoing orientation, or participate in class visits with the Study Abroad Office.
Write a featured student article about your experience abroad for our student experiences page and service as a peer mentor for UMSL Students looking study abroad.

SOCIAL:

Attend and help plan one Ambassador Group social event throughout the semester with your exchange student.
Be a mentor and great resource for incoming exchange students and UMSL students looking to study abroad. You should meet with your exchange student within the first week of their arrival for an informal lunch or coffee meeting. It is also suggested that you make yourself available about once a month to meet up with your student and connect over coffee, a concert, or any other social event. It is also necessary that you provide your student with a way of keeping in contact with you as questions arise during their semester.

Benefits

In addition to meeting new, fun international and UMSL students, you will also gain:
Better Communication and public speaking skills
Excellent leadership and team building experiences
A chance to share enthusiasm for international education and overseas experiences
Greater self awareness/knowledge (values, interests, goals)
Good resume/CV addition

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Requirements

Be a study abroad returnee
Current student in good-standing or recent graduate
Have strong communication skills
Be enthusiastic about study abroad and international education
Assist in event planning with the assistance of other ambassadors and the Study Abroad staff

How to Apply

Ambassadors will be chosen for the program through an application and selection process. Ambassadors are expected to attend regularly scheduled meetings and assist in program organization. Download an application today and submit it to our office!

June 1 - Priority applications due
July 10 - Last chance to submit an application for the upcoming academic year

If you have specific questions about this program please contact the Ambassadors Program Coordinator, via e-mail at studyabroad@umsl.edu. This is an unpaid volunteer program.

Study Abroad Office