Benefits
Cultivate strong, transferable skills in leadership, writing, presentation, and communication
Build a robust professional and academic network that extends beyond graduation
Establish direct pathways to mentorship, faculty relationships, and deeper involvement in both student life and higher education
Make a meaningful and lasting impact within the College and broader community
Student Ambassador Responsibilities
- Serve as an active representative of the College of Education at all assigned events
- Support prospective, current, and former students by sharing resources and providing peer guidance
- Lead guided tours of Norman Hall and provide context about the College’s history and mission
- Represent the COE with professionalism and enthusiasm at university-wide functions
- Maintain an informed understanding of the College’s academic programs, student services, and strategic initiatives
- Actively engage in community-building among fellow Ambassadors and campus stakeholders
Conduct
Ambassadors are expected to:
- Conduct themselves with professionalism, integrity, and maturity when representing the College
- Demonstrate respect, punctuality, and accountability in all duties
- Treat all faculty, staff, students, alumni, guests, and fellow Ambassadors with dignity and respect
- Respond to communication in a timely manner and maintain ongoing contact with the Ambassador Liaison
- Work with college leadership to ensure events and tours are accessible and reflective of our student community
Requirements
- Sign-up for and participate in at least 2 COE events per semester (summer semester excluded)
- Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA until graduation
- Be articulate, outgoing, and enthusiastic at events and when speaking with faculty/guests
- Notify the Ambassador Liaison or event coordinator of any unanticipated absences or tardiness before an event
- If unable to attend an event, ambassadors must:
- Notify the Ambassador Liaison as soon as possible,
- Find a fellow Ambassador as a replacement if necessary, and
- Communicate with the Liaison if you are unable to find someone to take your place.
- Attend all monthly Ambassador meetings in-person or virtually via Zoom.
- There will be 1 meeting per month every school year– once offered in-person and once offered virtually. Additional meetings may be called as deemed necessary by the Ambassador Liaison.
- If unable to attend the in-person OR virtual meeting, it is the responsibility of each Ambassador to contact the Ambassador Liaison. Failure to do so will result in diminished points. Sustained absences will result in revocation from the Ambassador Program.
Point System
The Ambassador Liaison will oversee a point-based system designed to track individual involvement and recognize active participation throughout the semester. This system will be used to award graduation cords, pins, certificates, and other incentives that celebrate commitment and contributions to the College of Education.
Each Ambassador will have an entry in a master spreadsheet where their name, attended events, and corresponding point values are recorded. The Liaison is responsible for maintaining this spreadsheet and manually updating it as participation occurs. Ambassadors will have regular access to view the tracking spreadsheet to monitor their own progress and report any discrepancies to ensure accuracy.
Point values will be assigned based on the type, time commitment, and impact of each event or responsibility (e.g., tabling, tours, presentations, socials, monthly meetings). At the end of each semester, the Liaison will tally total points and coordinate with program leadership to distribute awards.
Attire
Ambassadors should arrive at events appearing presentable and prepared to represent the College. The standard uniform includes:
- Official College of Education Ambassador polo shirt and name tag (provided),
- Khaki slacks, shorts, and/or skirts (depending on the formality of the event), and
- Business professional dress (e.g., pantsuit, dress, suit, dress shoes) when explicitly requested for formal events.
- If professional attire is necessary, the Ambassadors will be notified in advance.
Selection Process
- Each prospective Ambassador will complete an online application by the date specified on the ambassador application website.
- The Ambassador Liaison and program leadership will review applications and may host an informal social to meet candidates.
- All applicants will be notified of the status of their application via their UFL email shortly after the deadline.
Testimonials
Gabriella Haire
MAE in Curriculum and Instruction
Student Ambassador: 2023-Present
“I became a Student Ambassador to connect with others and one of the biggest things I’ve learned is how far a simple smile can go. It opens doors, builds connections, and makes others feel seen and welcomed.”
Kaylee Bui
BA, Education Sciences emphasis in Educational Technology
Student Ambassador: 2024-Present
“I joined the ambassador program at the College of Education to step out of my comfort zone and learn new skills. This program gave me the opportunity to meet new people, build meaningful connections, and be part of a diverse community that promotes inclusivity. The experience created lasting memories that made my college life truly unforgettable”
Cosette Ganci
BA, Education Sciences
Student Ambassador: 2024-Present
“I chose to be an ambassador because I am so passionate about what the UF College of Education has to offer and guiding new COE students! I also feel it’s especially important for students of other majors to know their options within the COE such as the FL Teach minor. ”
Melissa Elmhorst
M.Ed., Student Personnel in Higher Education
Student Ambassador: 2024-Present
“I became an ambassador to better understand how stakeholders shape the College, contribute to building community, and make the most of networking opportunities with faculty and staff. This experience has shown me just how much authentic relationships can inspire personal growth and help move the College’s mission forward.”