Being a part of the School of Accounting & Finance (SAF) Outreach and Ambassador Program (SOAP) was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had at the University of Waterloo. As a SOAP ambassador, my role was to connect with prospective students and help them get a genuine feel for what life at SAF and the university is really like - beyond just academics.
One of the best parts of being a SOAP ambassador was interacting with prospective students who were feeling the exact same uncertainty I once had. Whether it was answering questions about co-op, classes, student life, or balancing extracurriculars, I loved being able to share honest insights and reassure students that it’s okay not to have everything figured out yet. It felt meaningful knowing that a quick conversation or message could help someone feel more confident about their decision.
The SOAP program also pushed me to grow personally and professionally. Communicating with students from different backgrounds taught me how to listen actively, tailor my responses, and explain my experiences in a clear and relatable way. These skills have been incredibly useful in my leadership roles, interviews, and co-op experiences.
Beyond the responsibilities, being a SOAP ambassador was genuinely fun. It allowed me to reflect on how far I’ve come since my first year at university and appreciate the supportive community within SAF. It also gave me the chance to represent a program that values collaboration, leadership, and student engagement.
Overall, my experience as a SOAP ambassador reinforced why I chose SAF in the first place - the strong sense of community and the people who are always willing to help each other succeed. If you enjoy connecting with others and sharing your journey, SOAP is an amazing way to give back while gaining valuable skills along the way.