Student ambassadors are a vital part of the admissions process at Southeast Community College who give tours to students considering making SCC their college of choice.
They are trained to be able to answer any questions asked of college life as well as the different programs offered.
The Student Ambassador Program is a work-study program that not only helps pay for the students’ education, but also helps them work on public speaking skills, leadership skills and teaches them to think on their feet.
The Student ambassadors usually work three or four days a week and their time in the admissions office is scheduled around their class schedule.
According to Pat Frakes, the student ambassador supervisor, tours are given during the late morning or early afternoon hours. Student ambassadors have to have time during those hours, since this is the most common time for prospective students to take tours.
When asked about some benefits to students involved in the Student Ambassador Program, Frakes said that there are a number of skills learned while on the job.
For example, they have the opportunity to work on public speaking skills when student group tours come in by giving presentations. Frakes said they also learn how to talk to a tremendously diverse population, from people both with and without education as well as cultural groups and prospective students who speak English as a second language.
Frakes added, “We’ve had Student Ambassadors for a number of years now, and we feel that they do a great job.”
To be a student ambassador, students must be eligible for college work study. When students apply, they are required to fill out a handwritten application and have a criminal background check done. They also need to have a flexible schedule, public speaking skills and customer service skills.