Area 31 Ambassadors Prepare to Share Their Stories

Area 31 Career Center’s student Ambassadors recently gathered for orientation with a shared goal: learning how to bring their programs to life for prospective students, families and community members.

Orientation began with a personal connection. Students were asked to consider why they chose their program, what makes it meaningful to them and what they would want someone else to know about the experience. Those reflections provided a starting point for sharing Area 31’s opportunities through a student’s perspective.

Through message mapping, Ambassadors worked on organizing their ideas into a clear main message, three talking points and supporting details. They also began developing an elevator speech: a brief introduction explaining what their program offers, who might enjoy it and why it could be a good fit. Working with other Ambassadors from their program gave students an opportunity to compare ideas and find different ways to tell their stories.

The training also emphasizes how a message is delivered. Speaking clearly, using an appropriate pace and volume, and
paying attention to body language are all part of preparing for conversations with visitors. Ambassadors are learning to consider their audience, recognizing that a middle school student exploring career options may have different questions than a parent or an industry partner.

This year, Early College Counselor Gretchen Knock is taking over coordination of the Ambassador program as Adam Pearish, who has organized the program for several years, transitions to his responsibilities as Work-Based Learning Coordinator.

For Ambassadors, that responsibility is also an opportunity to grow. As they prepare to answer questions, share their
experiences and represent their classmates, they are practicing communication and leadership skills that will serve them well beyond Area 31.