Welcome back!  Now that you've returned from a wonderful study-abroad experience, you might be wondering what to do with your enthusiasm for all things international. There are plenty of ways that you can share what you've learned with the rest of your community here in St. Mary's.  Read on for ideas about what to do next...

International Ambassador
A Volunteer Position with the Office of International Education

What is an International Ambassador?
An International Ambassador is an experienced St. Mary's College student who assists international students new to the United States or just new to St. Mary's College in getting to know life here at the College.

They also act as peer mentors to SMCM students seeking information about various study-abroad programs. They might participate in study-abroad information sessions, international education programs, International Education Week activities, or volunteer in the International Education Office to assist other students in researching study-abroad opportunities.

Why Become an International Ambassador?
Because new students (international or otherwise) need a trusting, friendly face on campus to help them in their first weeks and especially during the first semester. Because experienced students have a wealth of information to share. Because it is always better to give than to receive. [Remember the Grinch's heart grew ten times its size.] Because you will learn about yourself, and perhaps about another culture. Because one can never have too many friends. And finally, because it is the St. Mary's Way.

What are the Responsibilities of an International Ambassador?
Ambassadors that are paired with international students should contact them by email, letter, or phone and welcome them to the College. They might assist the Office of International Education if the student needs to be picked up at the airport. They might visit them when they arrive to make sure that they have the things they need for their dorm room, townhouse, or apartment. (Ambassadors need not purchase things for the student, but direct them and assist them in purchasing the things they need.)

During the first couple of weeks of the semester, International Ambassadors help orient the new students to the campus and its resources, assist them with the registration process if needed, help them to find their advisor, find out how the studnet can make and receive phone calls from home, purchase stamps, and in general make them feel welcome.

During the first semester, Ambassadors might invite their student to participate in different organizations or to attend different events (on campus or otherwise), and make sure that the student registers for the next semester. Ambassadors might also inquire about the student's holiday plans. (If the student is from overseas, they might not be able to go home.) Perhaps the student wants to see other parts of the United States. Ambassadors might help them formulate their travel plans.

Ambassadors might plan, and participate in, weekend trips from time to time, to provide opportunities for the international students to get off campus and see other parts of the United States.

Most Importantly
Some students may make friends with their roommate, housemates, or other students in their dorm, but International Ambassadors should be there if they do not-- not as artificial (institutionally-assigned) friends, but as someone the new student can rely and call upon.

Peer Mentor Responsibilities
International Ambassadors interested in sharing their international education experiences with other SMCM students can participate in activities such as study-abroad information sessions, international education programs, and International Education Week activities. They may also assist students who are researching study-abroad opportunities by spending a few hours in the International Education Office guiding SMCM students through the vast amount of information on study-abroad programs. Participation would be coordinated with the Office of International Education.

Ok, I'm Interested, What's Next?
Fill out the application and submit it to the Office of International Education. You may also call the IE Office at x4202 to discuss your interest!