Staff and faculty at the University of Niagara Falls Canada (UNF) pride themselves on doing their utmost to help students excel in their academic, social, and personal lives. At the end of the 2024 Fall Term, the Student Success Office (SSO) further demonstrated this by hiring a team of Student Ambassadors, whose responsibilities including leading campus tours, helping with inquiries at the Student Success Hub, and aiding in other student experience initiatives.
Mackenzie Lewis, Senior Student Life Facilitator and the team’s supervisor, explained that the Student Ambassador roles are intended to be mutually beneficial. While the larger student body will receive exceptional peer guidance, the Ambassadors themselves can develop essential leadership skills for their future careers.
“Creating student jobs is something that SSO has been thinking about since UNF’s beginning, said Lewis. “We wanted to give students the opportunity to work on campus and grow as professionals while they study.”
The students’ reasons for pursuing the role were personal as well as professional. Nischay Chaitanya remembers feeling an overwhelming sense of uncertainty during his initial days at UNF. Thanks to the kindness of staff members and meaningful relationships with his professors and classmates, he gained a sense of confidence that served as his main motivation for becoming a Student Ambassador.
“I hope to be a friendly and approachable figure who students can turn to for guidance and reassurance,” said Chaitanya. “I want them to know that UNF is a safe space where they can share their concerns, ask questions, and find solutions without being judged or dismissed.”
Moses Eshiet also credits UNF with his immense interpersonal growth. Through balancing his academic work, part-time jobs, and other responsibilities, he’s developed resilience and adaptability. However, it was his involvement in campus life, including volunteering as a peer leader during New Student Orientation, that truly invigorated his zeal for motivating and helping others. This, combined with his love of the university and its vision, are what ultimately inspired him to be a Student Ambassador.
“Sharing insights about UNF’s campus and academic opportunities aligns with my people-focused approach and desire to make a positive impact,” said Eshiet. “I also want to share my pride in this community by promoting its programs, values, and opportunities to prospective students and their families.”
For other members of the team, like Gian Donaire and Khushi Siwach, enrolling in UNF inspired them to challenge themselves and embrace different experiences. They hope to instill that desire in new students.
“I’ve learned that I can do more than I thought I could. For example, I’ve been a model for two of UNF’s photo and video shoots, and I’ve represented my classmates as a Program Representative. Now, I can help my peers as a Student Ambassador,” said Donaire. “I’m excited about helping new students clear any doubts they might have”
“I’ve faced challenges that pushed me out of my comfort zone, but those moments showed me how capable I am. I’ve also discovered a real passion for learning that’s not just about academic success. It’s also helped me grow as a person,” added Siwach.“My goal is to connect with students, share opportunities that can help them grow, and encourage them to make the most of their time here. By leading with authenticity and enthusiasm, I want to inspire others to step out of their own comfort zones and pursue their goals.”
Jane Jacob, who came to UNF after a career as a lawyer, has a deep appreciation for the university’s focus on collaborative learning and encouraging diverse perspectives. One of her goals since starting as a Student Ambassador is to further cultivate this sense of belonging, which also happens to align with her post-graduation goals.
“I am excited about the chance to work with the other Student Ambassadors and the university staff to create impactful programs and initiatives that enhance the student experience,” said Jacob. “This role allows me to be a part of something bigger than myself and contribute to an inclusive and supportive environment where students can thrive. Moreover, fostering a positive and inclusive environment within the university mirrors my aspiration to cultivate a positive and collaborative work culture in my future career.”
Although they’ve only held them since November, Lewis has watched the Student Ambassadors assume their roles with eagerness, professionalism, and a clear love for all things UNF. This instills in her nothing but optimism for what’s to come.
“SSO has hired five exceptional students to be UNF’s Student Ambassadors,” she said. “From assisting new students on campus to working with us to ensure a positive and welcoming campus environment, it’s been great to see how they have all stepped up as student leaders.”
