STUDENT AMBASSADORS: LEADERSHIP IN ACTION

By Shea Standish

As a Student Ambassador , my role is to represent Washington Adventist University to the world. I’ve had the opportunity to tell others about my experience at WAU, learn about their lives and interests, and help them take advantage of the amazing opportunities I’ve found here. Every student ambassador has the opportunity to travel state-to-state, speaking to academy students and college hopefuls about their experiences at WAU. Whether you’re a singer, a speaker or a musician, there’s always an opportunity for you to use your talents to inspire others.

interdisciplinary studies and experiential learning, I was hooked; so, I decided to apply as a Political Studies and Honors Interdisciplinary major. Now, in my junior year, I don’t think I could have made a better decision. I’ve grown not only intellectually, but in character and confidence. I’ve learned to express myself in ways I never thought possible and had experiences I never imagined. My involvement in the Honors College has uniquely prepared me for a place of leadership, and as a student ambassador, I have the chance to share those experiences and help others gain the voice that I have.

When I first heard that the student ambassador position was available, I couldn’t sign up fast enough! Having the opportunity to tell others about the remarkable experiences I’ve had at WAU, learn about their lives and interests, and help them take advantage of the amazing opportunities we offer has been just as fulfilling and exciting as I thought it would be.

When I came to the university as an incoming freshman, one of the first things I heard about was the Honors College. Once I learned about its focus on

I’ve been a student ambassador for two years now, and during those years, I’ve had many experiences with many different people. Out of all of them, one, in particular, stood out to me. My first assignment as a student ambassador was traveling across state lines to New York for a camp meeting. I’d never been to a camp meeting before, but as we set up a booth next to the youth tent in the scorching sun and listened to gospel music being sung at the top of everyone’s lungs, I decided that I definitely enjoyed them. We stood there for hours, and I spoke to every person who came within shouting distance. When it came time to pack up, I didn’t want to leave. The atmosphere was electrifying, and the ability to speak with other young people — most of whom hadn’t even considered college beforeand — showing them the opportunity that we have, was incredible. I couldn’t get enough!

Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to meet young people from all around the world, who come to WAU looking for a place that will lift them up as they grow and learn, and a community that will embrace them and help them on their journey through life. I can always say with pride that the place they are looking for is Washington Adventist University.