My experience as a student ambassador

As I reflect on my time at university, I am grateful for all the opportunities afforded to me throughout my studies. I’ve had the opportunity to expand my horizons, both physically and academically, and gained invaluable work experience as a Student Ambassador for Bangor University and Bangor University International College.

I embarked on my journey to the UK in early 2020, flying from Islamabad, Pakistan, and landing at my new academic home at Bangor University in North Wales. With a prestigious and well-renowned reputation Bangor but has also helped me to build skill sets that will benefit my future. I wanted to study Business and Management because Bangor University has an excellent reputation in this field, but more than that, my studies have introduced me to business and trading as a cultural mechanism from the dawn of our civilisation. I want to build my business career equipped with the wisdom and trading culture of our collective history but also have the capacity to blaze my own trail.

I chose to study overseas to explore the diverse opportunities of international education and to learn the personal and professional skills that will benefit my career. As part of these opportunities, I’ve been able to work as a student ambassador for Oxford International Education Group (OIEG). Being a student ambassador has allowed me to represent my culture and engage with people from around the world. I’ve had many opportunities to promote OIEG and my International College, to help current and prospective students, partners, and colleagues to truly engage with the university by sharing my experiences.

Through being an international ambassador for OIEG, I’ve learned many things and discovered a lot about myself. It has required me to get involved in many extra-circular activities, events and projects that have grown my academic and professional skillset. The development of soft skills such as communication, listening, public speaking and self-confidence will benefit me for many years to come. The chance to regularly hone my skills will also help me in my future career and give me confidence when applying for work.

Although being an international ambassador is a voluntary occupation, it’s provided me the chance to work and network with professionals in many industries. I’ve built relationships and connections with businesses, employers, and my fellow students, who will become the launching pad for my first professional network. Being an ambassador has opened so many doors, and I know will continue to do so in the future.

Finally, it’s been absolutely fantastic to represent my country, culture, international college and university throughout my time at Bangor. If there are students out there considering ways to kickstart their careers, then being an International Student Ambassador is a fantastic job. It’s an amazing way to build an international network, gain great work experience and build the personal skillsets that will put you at the front of the list for employers.