Skip to page content

Student Ambassadors

Who We Are

The College of Education Student Ambassadors act as official hosts and representatives of the College. Ambassadors have the opportunity to:

  • Meet with prospective students
  • Facilitate orientation activities
  • Give building tours
  • Support outreach and recruitment initiatives
  • Provide strong student support at events such as open houses, welcome-back events, convocations, and other recognition ceremonies.

It is important for the senior leadership of the College of Education to make decisions, when appropriate, based on student input and feedback. A unique experience for students, ambassadors are often invited to share their student perspectives with the dean’s office on important issues and give input for new initiatives for college improvements. Students may contact the ambassadors with an issue or idea.

Email us if you have questions or are interested in being involved with the student ambassador program. Applications open every January, and interviews take place during the Spring.

Mission Statement

The College of Education Student Ambassadors act as official hosts and representatives of the College. Ambassadors have the opportunity to:

  • Meet with prospective students
  • Facilitate orientation activities
  • Give building tours
  • Support outreach and recruitment initiatives
  • Provide strong student support at events such as open houses, welcome-back events, convocations, and other recognition ceremonies.

It is important for the senior leadership of the College of Education to make decisions, when appropriate, based on student input and feedback. A unique experience for students, ambassadors are often invited to share their student perspectives with the dean’s office on important issues and give input for new initiatives for college improvements. Students may contact the ambassadors with an issue or idea.

Email us if you have questions or are interested in being involved with the student ambassador program. Applications open every January, and interviews take place during the Spring.

Join the Ambassador Program

Apply to be a Mary Frances Early College of Education Student Ambassador!

Student ambassadors act as official hosts and representatives of the College of Education. Ambassadors have the opportunity to meet with prospective students, facilitate orientation activities, give building tours, and create college-wide programs!

Applications will be open Friday, December 8th through Sunday, January 21st at 11:59 p.m., no exceptions

Application Requirements

  • Must be a College of Education admitted or intended major (1st years are strongly encouraged to apply)
  • Must be an undergraduate student (exceptions made for Double Dawgs)
  • Must be able to commit one (1) academic year to the Ambassador Program
  • Must have a 3.0 or higher cumulative GPA

Application Materials

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Additional writing prompts

Apply Now

Doctoral, Master’s, and Educational Specialist students interested in the Ambassador program can look out for the inaugural graduate class.

Contact advisor Kayla McKinney if you have any questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can intended majors who haven’t yet been accepted into the college apply?
Yes! - We highly encourage 1st and 2nd years to apply to the program as intended majors.
What is the time commitment of an Ambassador?
Ambassadors volunteer their time to the college on a weekly basis. Between events, tours, and meetings, Ambassadors can be expected to give 2-4 hours per week to the program.
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter is a 1-page document paired with your resume that provides additional information about skills and experiences related to your application. It is used to emphasize your qualifications and overall want of the role.

Students can reach out to Career Consultant Julie Jaeger for support with writing a cover letter or visit the Career Center’s website

Is preference given to teacher-prep students?
NO! - the Mary Frances Early College of Education is proud to serve students seeking careers in communication science, behavioral science, health, and sports as well as teaching/education. We seek to host programs for all our students.
Do I need a letter of recommendation?
No - this application does not require a letter of recommendation.
Can I apply if I have an MFECOE minor?
Only students seeking a degree under an MFECOE major are eligible to apply and serve in the program.
Can I apply as a graduate student?
Currently, only MFECOE undergraduate students are eligible to apply, with exceptions made for Double Dawgs. Graduate students can look out for the inaugural graduate student ambassador class coming soon.

Information Sessions

Three optional Information Sessions will feature a panel of current student ambassadors and a presentation regarding Ambassador requirements and expectations. Interested applicants are highly encouraged to attend.

These information sessions are listed below…

Upcoming Dates

Request Ambassadors for an Event

MFECOE faculty and staff members can request student ambassador volunteers at their college-sponsored events! Requests must be submitted at least 3 weeks prior to the event date.

Submit An Online Request

Student Ambassador Scholarship Fund

Amy Lee

As a student at the UGA College of Education, Amy Lee embodied passion, caring, and selflessness. Her plan as a special education major was to enrich the lives of others through education and therapy. Those she met in her time in the College—whether as a Student Ambassador, as a counselor for the local nonprofit Extra Special People, or through volunteer work with the UGA Wesley Foundation and Clarke County Mentor Program—saw firsthand that her passion extended far beyond a classroom.

Amy’s death in August 2018 shook the College of Education community. But our staff, faculty, and students, particularly her fellow Student Ambassadors, wanted to honor her energy and passion. Help us commemorate her generosity and love of serving others by supporting the Amy Katherine Lee Student Ambassador Scholarship Fund.

Donate today

Meet the Team

Chiqui Benton

Chiqui is a fourth-year English education major with an English minor from Atlanta, Georgia. Her favorite thing about the College is the people as everyone she runs into is so genuine and helpful! She also loves the vast opportunities the College provides. She loves the ambassador program because of the bonds she has created with other ambassadors and learning new things about the College. For incoming students, she advises them to never be afraid to try something new and to lean on others in times of need!

Maria Birozes

Maria is a second-year communication sciences and disorders major with an American Sign Language minor from Suwanee, Georgia. She loves that the College has a close-knit community and always wants its students to succeed in every way. Being an ambassador has made Maria more aware of the different majors offered within the College and gives her an opportunity to connect with students with similar future aspirations. She would tell incoming students not to stress too much about college and the future because the University has so many opportunities and programs to offer!

Lauren Black

Lauren is from Perry, Georgia and is a third-year elementary education major with a TESOL endorsement. She loves how the College creates a tight-knit community that pushes her to be the best version of herself! Through the ambassador program, she enjoys sharing her passion for education with other students while learning more about the College itself. For new students, she encourages everyone to not be afraid and put yourself out there to try something new!

Kylie Budge

Kylie is a third-year student from Cumming, Georgia. She is a communication sciences and disorders major with a Spanish minor. She loves that the College of Education fosters a community of students that support and uplift each other. Being an ambassador allows her to make a difference around the campus and spread her passion for the University. She advises new students to stay positive and try new things!

Sarah Burkey

From Conyers, Georgia, Sarah is a fourth-year student majoring in communication sciences and disorders with minors in American Sign Language and business. Sarah loves that the College of Education is made up of smaller groups and organizations so that everyone can find a place where they belong. As an ambassador, she likes that she can help make decisions that enhance the campus community. She wants to encourage new students to explore their interests and passions!

Emmy Burnley

Emmy Burnley is a third-year student from Lilburn, Georgia majoring in special education with a minor in American Sign Language. In the College of Education, Emmy loves the supportive staff as well as the amazing students. She likes that as an ambassador she gets to serve as a bridge between faculty and staff. Her advice to new students is don’t be afraid to put yourself out there!

Claudia Carlton

From Monroe, Georgia, Claudia is a fourth-year student majoring in communication sciences and disorders. She loves that everyone in the College of Education is kind and willing to help others. As an ambassador, she loves meeting new people and learning more about what makes the College special. For new students, her advice is to give yourself grace!

Jennifer Casas

Jennifer is a fourth-year student from Marietta, Georgia majoring in elementary education with an ESOL endorsement. In the College of Education, she loves all of the new people that she has met. As an ambassador, she loves connecting with people outside of her major and helping incoming students feel welcome. Her advice to new students is to always let your voice be heard by joining organizations and sharing your experiences!

Emily Casey

From Monroe, Georgia, Emily is a fourth-year student majoring in elementary education with a minor in human development and family science and an ESOL endorsement. She loves the variety of opportunities offered by the College of Education. As an ambassador, she loves meeting new people and being able to work fun events. For incoming students, her advice is to try something new!

Dabirichi Chukwuezi

Dabirichi is a third-year student from Austell, Georgia majoring in communication sciences and disorders with a registered behavioral technician certificate. She loves that the College of Education is inclusive and feels like a family. As an ambassador, she loves being able to interact with staff on a deeper level. Her advice to new students is to embrace the college experience!

Emily Collins

From Woodstock, Georgia, Emily is a second-year student majoring in elementary education. She loves the opportunities the College of Education gives as well as the friendly faculty and staff. As an ambassador, she loves to show students how much she appreciates the College. For incoming students, her advice is don’t be afraid to talk to administration because they love to get to know students!

Kaylyn Contreras

Kaylyn is a third-year student from Hawkinsville, Georgia majoring in elementary education with a minor in human development and family science. She loves the support and sense of community that the College of Education offers. She also loves that the College commemorates Mary Frances Early. As an ambassador, she loves being able to represent the College and friends she has made along the way. Her advice to new students is to get involved on campus!

Ellie Crosland

From Athens, Georgia, Ellie is a third-year student majoring in communication sciences and disorders with a minor in linguistics. She loves that the environment in the College of Education is welcoming and pushes everyone to reach their best potential. As an ambassador, she loves that she can connect with prospective students, current students, and staff. Her advice for incoming students is to put yourself out there and try new things!

Emmie David

Emmie is a fourth-year student from Statesboro, Georgia majoring in communication sciences and disorders with a certificate in disability studies. She loves the close community found in the College of Education. As an ambassador, she loves getting to know new people. Her advice to new students is not to be afraid to ask for help.

Braden DeLamater

Braden is a fourth-year student from Athens, Georgia majoring in social studies education with a minor in history. He loves the close community in the College of Education and the variety of majors it offers. He advises new students to explore their passions and pick a major that aligns with what they are passionate about!

Olante Douglas

From Buford, Georgia, Olante is a third-year student majoring in elementary education with an ESOL endorsement. He loves that the College of Education builds a community within all of the majors. As an ambassador, he loves being more involved with the College. His advice to new students is to stay motivated and celebrate success!

Amanda Foy

Amanda is a third-year student from Atlanta, Georgia majoring in exercise and sport science with a minor in Spanish. She loves that the College of Education creates a smaller, more intimate community at the University. As an ambassador, she loves that the program is very inclusive. Her advice to incoming students is to join clubs and meet new people!

Kayleigh Hammond

From Dallas, Georgia, Kayleigh is a second-year student majoring in communication sciences and disorders. She loves the resources and opportunities that the College of Education provides for its students. As an ambassador, she loves getting to know students with the same passions as her. Her advice to new students is to take advantage of every opportunity!

Mackenzie Harden

Mackenzie is a fourth-year student majoring in exercise and sport science and is from Macon, Georgia. Her favorite things about the College of Education are the passionate teachers and faculty and that the College provides a tight-knit community that continuously supports and encourages her. Mackenzie loves being an ambassador because she is able to share her knowledge about the College, the University, and her own experiences with incoming students to help them feel prepared! For incoming students, she encourages them to get involved and find organizations that they are passionate about to create a positive college experience!

Chloe Hendrix

Chloe is a fourth-year student from Taylorsville, Georgia majoring in exercise and sport science with a minor in human development and family science. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is the positive atmosphere it provides for all of the students! As an ambassador, she loves the community that is formed within the program as everyone is inviting and very encouraging to one another. She advises new students to take advantage of all opportunities that are put in your path; say “yes” more, take chances, and cherish the memories that follow those experiences!

Hannah Holeman

From Monroe, Georgia, Hannah is a fourth-year student studying communication sciences and disorders. Her favorite thing about the College is the sense of community it provides for students as the College has endless initiatives to get involved and connected to other students. For the ambassadors program, she loves to introduce her major to prospective students and brighten others’ days through tabling activities! For incoming students, she suggests taking time to figure out what you are passionate about and engage yourself in things that spark your interest!

Emily Idom

Emily, a third-year student from Dalton, Georgia, studies exercise and sport science. She loves that the College of Education is inclusive of all majors and gets students involved with all types of organizations! As an ambassador, she loves the networking the program provides and its sense of community. She advises incoming students to meet others within your college!

Kristain Johnson

Kristain is a fourth-year student from Winder, Georgia studying elementary education with a minor in social work. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is the welcoming community and she loves how the College celebrates and supports its students! She loves being an ambassador because she is able to meet people outside of her major. For incoming students, she encourages them to be willing to try new things!

Katie Kim

Katie is a third-year student from Duluth, Georgia studying elementary education. Katie’s favorite things about the College of Education are the resources from the weekly Connection emails and the cohort system for her major! Her favorite thing about being an ambassador is being able to make connections with different majors and cohorts. Her advice for new students is to try to push yourself to do something even if you are scared!

Jessica King

From Clyo, Georgia, Jessica is a second-year student majoring in English education with an English minor. She loves how the College is centered around providing the best possible experience to each student! She says that her favorite thing about the ambassador program is seeing other ambassadors’ passion for the College and their professions because it reminds her of exciting futures ahead! She encourages new students not to be afraid to try new things, that way they can meet new people and have new experiences!

Audrey Kittila

From Milton, Georgia, Audrey is a fourth-year student majoring in communication sciences and disorders. She loves that the College of Education emphasizes working to make all students feel at home and like a member of the family! For the ambassador program, she enjoys being able to support other students. For incoming students, she advises them to find their niche and engage with the University and the College of Education!

Annabelle Lambert

Annabelle is a fourth-year student majoring in elementary education from Villa Rica, Georgia. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is the connections made between the students and staff. Annabelle loves being an ambassador because it allows her to get more involved with the College and meet other people outside of her classes! She recommends new students get involved as much as they can and take each opportunity that presents itself!

Marissa Langley

Marissa is a third-year student from Woodstock, Georgia majoring in elementary education with an ESOL certificate. She likes that the College has a cohort system for her major! Her favorite part of ambassadors is the family-like bond members can create. For new students, she advises them to hang out with friends outside of class to get to know them better!

Allie Lawson

Allie is from Silver Spring, Maryland and is a third-year student majoring in communication sciences and disorders with a minor in human development and family science. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is that it offers a wide variety of opportunities for all majors within the College! She loves being an ambassador because she is able to meet new people while making connections with faculty, staff, and alumni. For new students, she recommends stepping out of their comfort zone and trying new things because you never know what to expect once you get involved!

Ana Hernadez Lozano

From Carrollton, Georgia, Ana is a third-year student majoring in elementary education with a communication studies minor and TESOL endorsement. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is that the cohorts give her a sense of community and support. She loves being an ambassador because it is an honor for her to show other Latinx individuals that they belong and are needed in the field of education. Her advice to incoming students is to be confident in yourself and what you have to offer!

Sofia Magana

Sofia is from Peachtree Corners, Georgia and is a fourth-year student majoring in special education with certificates in ESOL and dyslexia. She loves that the College of Education is a diverse community with many opportunities. As an ambassador, she loves that she is able to engage with more students outside of her major. Her advice to new students is to take advantage of all the resources and opportunities given to you!

Janet Mendoza

From Gainesville, Georgia, Janet is a fourth-year student majoring in communication sciences and disorders with a minor in American Sign Language. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is the welcoming environment and the history behind the name of the school. She loves being an ambassador because of the community and networking that she is able to do within the community. Her advice to incoming students is to get plugged in and meet others within the College!

Olivia Morana

Olivia is from Dunwoody, Georgia and a fifth-year student majoring in communication sciences and disorders with a minor in American Sign Language. In the College of Education, she loves being able to represent one of the oldest institutions in America. As an ambassador, she loves meeting new people. She would advise new students to take advantage of everything the University has to offer and not be afraid to take chances!

Kaia Murphy

From Alpharetta, Georgia, Kaia is a third-year student majoring in exercise and sport science with a minor in personal health and well-being. She loves that the College of Education is a community full of welcoming, inspiring people. As an ambassador, she appreciates that it has granted her even more opportunities. Her advice to incoming students is to not get overwhelmed with school and understand that you are not alone!

Rachel Murray

Rachel is a third-year student from Cumming, Georgia majoring in exercise and sport science with a certificate in personal health and well-being. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is the wonderful community that shares a passion for serving others. She loves being an ambassador because she is able to be a voice for other students while also serving the University community. Her advice to new students is to try new things that you would be scared to try!

Lauren Pace

From Dallas, Georgia, Lauren is a third-year student majoring in middle grades education. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is how she is able to get to know students better through cohorts. As an ambassador, she loves being able to share her passion for education with other students. Her advice to incoming students is to enjoy the classes you take!

Kira Picinich

Kira is a third-year student from Oradell, New Jersey double majoring in sport management and marketing. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is the welcoming environment. She loves being an ambassador because she enjoys representing such an amazing school! Her advice to new students is to take the leap in trying new things and meeting new people.

Worth Pickens

From St. Simons Island, Georgia, Worth is a fourth-year student majoring in sport management with a minor in business and a certificate in legal studies. He loves the College of Education because it is a second family for him. As an ambassador, he loves the new opportunities that it has awarded him. His advice to new students is to break out of your shell and try new things!

Michelle Pickett

Michelle is a second-year student from Jasper, Georgia majoring in mathematics education with a minor in mathematics. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is how close-knit the entire community is, especially within her major. She loves being an ambassador because she enjoys representing the College and helping it to be a better place. Her advice to incoming students is to get involved in as many things as you can!

Alex Roth

From Alpharetta, Georgia, Alex is a fourth-year student majoring in communication sciences and disorders. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is the ample opportunities it has awarded her. She loves being an ambassador because of the tight-knit community. Her advice to new students is to try new experiences, especially in relation to the profession you would like to go into!

Chloe Saxton

Chloe is a third-year student from Macon, Georgia majoring in communication sciences and disorders with a minor in American Sign Language. She loves the College of Education because it is full of bright, passionate individuals who have a heart for helping others! As an ambassador, she enjoys being part of the behind-the-scenes goings-on in the College; it helps her stay connected. Her advice to incoming students is to take a class, be in a club, or add a minor outside of your field!

Kara Scoggins

From Buford, Georgia, Kara is a fourth-year student majoring in communication sciences and disorders with certificates in disability studies and learning, design, and technology. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is that it unites a wide range of students with a common love for serving others. She loves being an ambassador because it has given her the chance to connect with like-minded peers that support her in her college journey. Her advice to new students is to not be afraid to get involved and also apply for leadership positions!

Abby Shainberg

Abby is a fourth-year student from Memphis, Tennessee majoring in communication sciences and disorders with a certificate in disability studies. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is that the environment fosters growth in all of the students. She loves being an ambassador because she is able to bridge the gap between allied profession majors and teacher preparation majors. Her advice to new students is to not be afraid to meet new people!

Kate Shemwell

From Alpharetta, Georgia, Kate is a third-year student majoring in exercise and sport science with a minor in Spanish. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is the warm staff and students. She loves being an ambassador because it gives her the chance to connect with people she may not have known before. Her advice to incoming students is that balance is the key to success!

Ethan Sinon

Ethan is a third-year student from Powder Springs, Georgia majoring in social studies education with a minor in TESOL. He loves the College of Education because it is very inclusive and provides students with many opportunities to be the best teachers possible. As an ambassador, he loves being able to help individuals find their way through college. His advice to new students is don’t take things so seriously!

Katie Sklaire

From Bethesda, Maryland, Katie is a second-year student majoring in elementary education. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is that it is easy to get to know professors and peers. She loves being an ambassador because she is able to introduce future students to everything the College has to offer. Her advice to incoming students is to be open to talking to a diverse array of people, especially in your classes!

Patti Tropauer

Patti is a fourth-year student from Roswell, Georgia majoring in exercise and sport science with a minor in Spanish and a disability studies certificate. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is the friendly professors and staff. As an ambassador, she loves connecting with people who have different majors from her own. Her advice to new students is to get involved as much as possible!

Megan Turner

From McDonough, Georgia, Megan is a fourth-year student double majoring in communication sciences and disorders and Spanish. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is that it is a welcoming place and it provides students opportunities to expand their professional development skills. As an ambassador, she loves that she learns about a lot of new resources that the College offers. Her advice to incoming students is to join an organization in the College and don’t be afraid to get to know the ambassadors!

Kinsey Verbrugge

Kinsey is a fourth-year student from Blacksburg, Virginia majoring in exercise and sport science. She loves that the College of Education hosts a wide range of events and opportunities for students to be engaged. As an ambassador, she loves meeting new people outside of her major. Her advice to new students is to get involved and have an open mind!

Mackenzie Wilson

From Dallas, Georgia, Mackenzie is a fifth-year student majoring in elementary education with a minor in English. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is that it is a welcoming environment even with her being a transfer student! She loves being an ambassador because she loves serving her community and school. Her advice to incoming students is to focus on your studies and make connections with your peers!

Anna Wynne

Anna is a fourth-year student from Marietta, Georgia majoring in social studies education with a minor in history. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is that all of the students are committed to learning. She loves being an ambassador because it allows her to get to know other students outside of her major. Her advice to new students is to choose a major that allows you to explore things you are passionate about!

Regan Zakrewski

From McDonough, Georgia, Regan is a fourth-year student majoring in elementary education. Her favorite thing about the College of Education is the emphasis that the College puts on social justice and equity. She loves being an ambassador because she is able to make wonderful connections; she also met the most amazing mentors, professors, and classmates through the program. Her advice to incoming students is to follow your passions and give yourself grace while in college!

Contact Info

Contact advisor Kayla McKinney if you have any questions.
© University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602
706‑542‑3000