As Covid19 is changing the way universities admit new students, opportunities for student networking, community building, and peer support are more important now than they have ever been. For new Maynooth University international entrants starting out in September 2020, student volunteers (ambassadors, mentors, buddies, recent graduates/alumni etc.) are central to ensuring a smooth transition.

At Maynooth University 18 current student ambassadors and 7 alumni are actively supporting the current incoming international student cohort for September 2020. Via the Maynooth University CampusConnect app, they provide support, friendship, and guidance by contributing to a range of groups and themes such as subject areas, nationalities, accommodation, orientation, travelling to campus etc.

For Pauline Di Girolamo (pictured below), who works in the non-EU recruitment section in the International Office at Maynooth University, these student volunteers play a critically important role in her day to day management and support of incoming international offer holders.

There is of course a lot to consider in managing and developing this type of community support network. Important considerations include level of commitment, support, training, feedback, ensuring minimal impact on studies or work and all the while ensuring the experience a positive one for all.

Despite all this, for Pauline the rewards are worth the effort, and feedback from new students and those who volunteer suggests that there is value across the whole community, not just one part.

“Thank you Pauline and the MU International office team for giving us voices and making it even easier for international students like me to be connected” (Bharvi Dhall- Current PHD candidate and international student ambassador at Maynooth University)

As Pauline and co. in the international office are preparing to reward some of their most active and supportive student volunteers, we thought it an ideal opportunity to find out a little more.

1. For you, what is a student ambassador?

A student ambassador is a current/past student of Maynooth University chosen to represent the university for prospective students. They are responsible for helping them prepare in terms of their studies, adapting to student life and integrating in the MU community. The ambassador is expected to give honest and constructive feedback about their student experience, offering realistic expectations for the new students and helping them prepare for their studies, adapting to student life and integrating into the MU community.

2. How important are international ambassadors to what you do at Maynooth University and why?

At MU we want to make sure we offer support to our students, before, during and after their experience. The ‘before’ part is essential, as it will be a factor that influences their decision for the students to come to MU for their studies. We recognise that for students, contact with someone of their age enables easier communication, as they can feel comfortable and as ‘equals.’

Ambassadors are a different and authentic voice, and an excellent addition to the support already offered by the university.

3. What would you say are the characteristics of a good international ambassador?

Here at Maynooth, we value individuals who are passionate, enthusiastic and willing to interact with the students. We look for someone who is approachable, and happy to share their experiences.

4. One of your ambassadors Bharvi is being recognised for her contribution? Can you tell us a bit about this? 

Bharvi is a MU full degree Indian student who completed an MSc Data Science and Analytics and has now started a PHD in Data Science. She is an ambassador working with the CampusConnect application, and she manages a group dedicated to the Data Science PHD students, but is equally involved in other groups. She has been answering many queries that students have related to her academic department, the pre-arrival process (visas, accommodation, etc) and general student life at MU. She has offered a lot of 1-to-1 support which has been really effective and appreciated by the students too.

5. Why was she selected for recognition?

As a PHD student, Bharvi has been very busy during the past academic year but she still devoted time to supporting students on CampusConnect.  She has been proactive, interacting with a high volume of people, always remaining patient and positive. We have decided to reward her hard work by offering her a gift voucher on the behalf of the MU International Office. We also want to recognise the efforts of all the other ambassadors active on the platform throughout the year. They have been very dedicated and have provided an amazing level of support to the prospective students.

6. Why would you recommend someone to become a student ambassador?

I believe it is a very fulfilling role. Acting as an ambassador gives students a chance to develop their leadership and communication skills. It will be an asset to highlight in their CV when looking for a job in the future. It also allows students to become more active and involved in the MU community (i.e. meeting new students and staff, etc).If you are a current student thinking of becoming an ambassador, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to have a chat! You can join at any time; it doesn’t have to be at the beginning of the academic year. The workload is totally catered to what you can take on, we understand as students, you juggle a lot of responsibilities. We are just happy and grateful for people to contribute in any way they can.

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