Overview  

The Bear Ambassador Program in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions provides a paid experience for WashU students to assist with daily campus informational programming. The ambassador program provides a mixture of key responsibilities that work with prospective students and families, and offers exposure to the various functions of admissions at a highly selective institution. This position will operate fully in-person as university policy and CDC guidelines allow. 

Key responsibilities

  • Giving in-person and virtual student-led campus tours to campus visitors 
  • Managing breakout rooms and the Q&A function of Zoom sessions 
  • Handling the daily check-in process for visiting guests in the Sumers Welcome Center and other visit areas on campus 
  • Facilitating in-person and virtual Bear Chats with prospective students 
  • Engaging with prospective students electronically via postcards, email, Welcome to College, Zoom, etc.  
  • Providing support for special virtual events, such as panels, information sessions, Webinars, etc. 
  • Assisting with special in-person events, such as special visit days, group visits, luncheons, and overnight programs 
  • Managing the mock residential hall space 
  • Other administrative tasks as assigned 

Required skills/characteristics

  • Bear Ambassadors must be a full-time undergraduate student from the Classes of 2026, 2027, 2028
  • Good academic standing (minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA) and good judicial standing with the university (your application gives us permission to check your standing) 
  • Enthusiasm about the university and what it offers students 
  • All interested applicants MUST attend a mandatory information session to learn how to navigate the interview process. The interview will consist of two parts: 1) A Mini Tour and 2) Formal Q&A. 

Desired skills/characteristics

  • Strong written and oral communication skills 
  • Comfortable with public speaking in both small and large groups 
  • Commitment to providing the highest level of customer service to every prospective visitor and their guest(s) 
  • Self-starter who takes initiative and is willing to jump-in and assist however is needed 
  • We value a diverse workplace and encourage LGBTQIA+ individuals, members of racial or ethnic underrepresented backgrounds, and others from diverse or historically marginalized groups to apply 

Hours

  • The ambassador position is part-time (4-6 hours per week) with some weekends required. Hours worked will depend on availability and staffing needs. 
  • The Undergraduate Admissions Office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30am-5pm. With occasional programs on early mornings, evenings, Saturdays, and Sunday. Ambassadors should expect to work their shifts between Monday-Friday with the occasional Saturday or Sunday as needed. Non-paid vacation time is available. 
  • All ambassadors are required to attend mandatory training that will occur early in the spring semester of 2025 and late August of 2025. Meals and on-campus housing will be provided free of cost to all Bear Ambassadors for the duration of training. 

Compensation

Ambassadors will be compensated at a rate of $13.75 per hour. Federal Work-Study is possible through this position. 

Application process

Apply via Handshake and attach a resume, which should include major(s)/minor(s), cumulative GPA, relevant skills/experience, and involvement. 

By applying, students give the Admissions Office permission to access university standing and academic record. 

Questions?

Please reach out to Jennie Jean-Jacques and Jessica Napier at BearAmbassadors@email.washu.edu