In my first year in the Sustainability and Financial Management (SFM) program at the School of Accounting and Finance (SAF), I was looking for a way to get involved and meet people beyond my classes. That’s what initially drew me to the SAF Outreach and Ambassador Program (SOAP) Ambassador role. At the time, I saw it as a fun way to connect with the community, but it quickly became one of the most meaningful parts of my undergraduate experience.
As a SOAP Ambassador, I’ve had the opportunity to volunteer at open houses, speak on student panels, support DECA students and connect with prospective students and their families. What I find most rewarding about this role is sharing my experiences of co-op, academics and even student life in the hopes that it helps others picture themselves at SAF.
Continuing this role as part of the Fellowship Program has made the experience even more meaningful. It has pushed me to grow not only as a communicator but also as a leader and mentor for current and prospective students. Being in a role where others seek my guidance has strengthened my confidence and made me more intentional in how I share my experience at SAF.
Through the Fellowship Program, I’ve been matched with a wonderful mentor who has helped me think more intentionally about my academic and professional goals. What started as a mentorship has grown into a genuine friendship, which has made our conversations even more open and impactful. Through these conversations, I’ve been introduced to ideas and paths I hadn’t previously considered, including research and even the possibility of pursuing a PhD. Because of this, I’ve learned that my path doesn’t have to be linear and that exploring different interests is an important part of growth.
If I could give one piece of advice to a first-year student, it would be to take that first step and get involved, even if you’re unsure where it might lead. You don’t need to have everything figured out; programs like SOAP and the Fellowship Program can help you grow, meet people and discover your interests along the way.
Looking back, what started as a simple way to get involved has evolved into an experience that has helped improve my confidence and shaped my career goals. Being a SOAP Ambassador through the Fellowship Program has allowed me to give back to the SAF community, build long-lasting connections, develop meaningful relationships with faculty and grow in ways that have supported both my personal and professional development.
Take that first step and get involved, even if you’re unsure where it might lead. You don’t need to have everything figured out.