Aggie Ambassadors are the smiling faces that make the UC Davis College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences feel instantly welcoming.
What began as a small student outreach effort nearly 30 years ago has grown into a tight-knit community that many students describe as their home on campus. Part mentor, part campus hype squad, ambassadors help others discover our campus. At the same time, they’re building connections and gaining skills that can help them find their place in the professional world.
“It’s a program that builds leadership skills, builds community and builds interest and excitement about our college,” said Susan Ebeler, associate dean of Undergraduate Academic Programs. “It’s a magical thing to have all the pieces come together to create something that is so impactful.”
Leadership, community and outreach are at the heart of the program. The student-led group represents CA&ES at recruitment and outreach events on campus and across California and the country, including State FFA, World Ag Expo and Field Day. They greet prospective students, answer questions, share their experiences and offer a glimpse of what life as an Aggie can really be.
With Aggie Ambassadors, I found community. If I hadn’t joined, I would probably still be this shy person in my little bubble.” -Juliet
“They gain more confidence with public speaking, develop their own leadership skills and make friends,” said Corrine Hawes, CA&ES student leadership program coordinator. “There really is something that everyone can take away from the program.”
Students have opportunities to take on specialized officer roles in communications, event planning and more. They hear from faculty and industry professionals through workshops and take field trips to agricultural facilities. Social activities give students a chance to have fun and build friendships while learning. Through all the activities, Aggie Ambassadors are working on their communication skills, teamwork and problem solving.
Wearing the blue and gold is part of being an Aggie Ambassador, but the community, connections and hands-on learning are what make the experience so special.
I’ve always wanted to be a veterinarian, ever since I was a little girl. Aggie Ambassadors allowed me to connect with professors and explore career paths. Aggie Ambassadors provides those opportunities to find connections.” -Emily
Partner With Us
Aggie Ambassadors needs your support to continue to grow and offer CA&ES students a place where they can build community, develop leadership skills, and continue to act as ambassadors for UC Davis at both on and off campus events. Since one of the pillars is community, we strive to include every student and recently we’ve outgrown the capacity of our classroom due to overwhelming interest.
This popular student organization is coordinated by one full-time staff member and eight to ten student volunteers but to keep up with current student demand, we need financial support.
To learn more about giving opportunities and find an option that aligns with your interests, please connect with Jen Thayer, Director of Development and External Relations, at 530-754-1752.