At the Judy Genshaft Honors College, Honors ambassadors play a pivotal role in connecting the college to the broader University of South Florida community. A dynamic team comprised of over 25 Honors student employees, Honors ambassadors serve as liaisons for guest services and building operations, ensuring a positive experience for everyone who interacts with the college.
“I really love the structure it's given me and my life,” said former Honors ambassador Gabby Carroll in a recent episode of The Honor Roll Podcast. “It helps me with planning out my assignments and I meet new people. I think, honestly, if I had not been an Honors ambassador, I would not have known as many people as I know now.”
Honors ambassadors are more than just team members; they are the welcoming faces that greet visitors, including current students, USF faculty and staff, prospective students, alumni, and others.
“My favorite part is definitely getting to meet new people,” said Kinsey Roth, a rising Honors senior studying accounting and finance. “It forces me to talk to other students, which is so cool because I get to meet so many people from so many different places. I'm an out-of-state student, so it's interesting to meet other out-of-state and international students. And since Honors includes everyone from all majors across the university, you just get to meet lots of different people and learn more about them.”
An integral part of making sure the stunning Judy Genshaft Honors College building runs smoothly, Honors ambassador responsibilities include providing a positive first impression, supporting inquiries from visitors and potential students, monitoring incoming phone calls and messages, maintaining an organized and welcoming front desk environment, and assisting with building operations and special events.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH
The role of an Honors ambassador is also an excellent opportunity for students to develop valuable professional skills. By engaging with a diverse range of people and handling various tasks, ambassadors gain experience in customer service, communication, and leadership. This hands-on experience is not only beneficial for their future careers but also helps them grow personally and professionally in an inclusive and collaborative environment.
“Along with meeting people, you get very close with the faculty,” said current Honors ambassador Aakash Vijeesh. “Before I started working as an Honors ambassador, I knew just my professors and that was about it. But since I started working here, I'm pretty familiar with all the faculty and what they do. It's a lot more comfortable being an Honors student knowing that I know everyone, and it's less of a foreign environment.”
Along with the opportunity to network with faculty and staff, the role offers increased engagement opportunities for Honors ambassadors to take advantage of all the Honors College has to offer.
“As an Honors ambassador, we get a completely different view of the college,” said Vijeesh.
“A lot of people don’t know we have these tools and opportunities for students to be more creative and more involved,” agreed Carroll. “Whenever I was giving a tour, I loved mentioning things like the podcast studio and music room. People are always shocked to find out that we have more than just classes.”
Of course, a supportive atmosphere and flexible schedule that allows Honors students to thrive academically is another perk of the job.
“This is a great first job that puts you in contact with a lot of great people that are really willing to help you,” added Roth.
For students interested in becoming an Honors Ambassador, the application process for fall 2024 is open now. Students can visit the Honors College website to learn more and apply.
WHAT CURRENT STUDENTs LOVE ABOUT BEING AN HONORS AMBASSADOR
My favorite part of being an Honors ambassador is interacting with faculty, staff, advisors, current students, and prospective students and assisting with any needs they may have. – Sophia Nobles
Helping people find their way around the building and answering any questions about this great college. – Kiley Kennedy
My favorite thing about working as an Honors ambassador is being able to interact and directly engage with the Honors community. – Tanmayee Kanagala
My favorite thing is working with other students in the Honors College. It’s nice meeting them. – May Birch
My favorite thing working as an Honors ambassador would be the welcoming and warm community of fellow students and staff. The friendly atmosphere allows me to stay relaxed and look forward to coming into work. – Sanjeev Varma
Getting to meet new people everyday. – Ethan Joseph