Kholud Ben Salim

How long have you been a student ambassador for?

Two years.

Why did you want to become a student ambassador?

I’m a mature student and have been studying at the University for five years. I wanted to become a student ambassador as I believed my experiences and knowledge would help new students.

What sort of work have you been involved with?

The work is really varied – from showing visitors around campus on open days, attending higher education exhibitions around the UK and providing administrative support. I’ve also taken part in photo and video shoots, focus groups and insight sessions to help the University learn more about students’ needs and preferences.

What’s the best part of your role as an ambassador?

The best part of my job is when I represent Teesside University at national events and across the region. It makes me feel very proud to be part of the University and to represent my course.

Ambassadors are positive role models, supporting the University at visit days, university experience days on campus and at local schools. As an ambassador you help to break down barriers and myths about university from prospective students from diverse backgrounds. For students who feel that university is out of their reach, meeting an inspirational student ambassador can help them realise that they can overcome challenges to attend university if that’s what they want to do.

What’s your favourite thing about Teesside?

The campus is compact and all in one area – you can walk to everything. The recent and ongoing developments on campus are brilliant.

What would you say to anyone thinking about applying to the ambassador programme?

Being a student ambassador gives you a great opportunity to add some practical work experience to your CV. You also meet lots of new people. Regular social events are organised to help you meet new ambassadors too. Many ambassadors end up as friends for life. The job is really well paid too.