Q&A from Karen, Becky and Olivia

What was the application process?

Olivia: The application process was incredibly straightforward. It involved an online written application and an online interview. I was quickly notified that I was being offered the role, and was invited to an extremely comprehensive training day, explaining our specific roles, how we would be paid, how we can sign up for different shifts, and any other possible query we could ever have! We also completed online trainings in our own time – the wealth of resources provided to us is truly fantastic.

What do you actually do when you are on the job?

Karen: There is no typical day. You see, the university is huge, with many departments, so the tasks as a student ambassador can vary greatly depending on the department you're assigned to. For example, I once spent 4 hours seated while I registered people for an Open day; one day, my job was to set up banners. Once, I got paid to be on an online meeting and answer questions; the other day, I did a tour for a lovely Malaysian family, so there is no specific answer on how your day looks.

Becky:  I started off working at the open days but from there I’ve done everything from campus tours to online student panels to blogs. It’s all relatively easy but rewarding work. Open days may consist of setting up the day and signposting prospective students and guests throughout the day; student panels allow prospective students to ask questions to current students about many different topics to help with their journey to university; I write monthly blog posts for the School of Social and Political Science; and I respond to messages from prospective students on a site called Unibuddy.

But I’ve found that the role I’ve enjoyed the most is campus tours, having the opportunity to show off our beautiful campus, whilst sharing my experiences here and talking to people who could one day be studying here! I also love being able to work outside (especially on sunny days). I have also had the opportunity to take part in other events such as YourEd, where young widening participation students from local schools come to the University to see what life here is like.

Do you need previous experience in a similar role?

Karen: I wouldn't say so. I think the most important thing is your attitude, disposition, and good vibes. The university provides the necessary training, so just focus on having the willingness and a service-oriented mindset to speak to a lot of people about the university! Share the things you like about the university. It's more about having a cheerleader mindset than previous experience.

Let's talk money! Is the payment good?

Karen: I can't say how much the university will pay for the position because it depends on when you read this blog. However, it allows you to have some nice treats at the end of the month! It's pocket money that will let you enjoy a bit more of the Edinburgh experience (at least for me because, as an international student, I cannot work more than 20 hours).

Becky:  Out of all the jobs I’ve had as a student, I have made the most as a student ambassador as the hourly wage is higher than national minimum wage. You also get paid the same rate for all the training that is required for the job!

How easy is it to get shifts?

Becky: You apply for shifts as they become available on the Student Ambassador Organiser, an online portal that shows available shifts and is also how you claim your pay. As there are lots of student ambassadors you don’t always get all of the shifts you applied for (especially if you applied for everything) but the managers will try to make sure hours are distributed evenly.

You are guaranteed a minimum of 10 hours work each year, but I can safely say that there were some points in the year where I worked that in a week and other times where I only worked a shift or two over a whole month. When we say it’s flexible, we really mean it!

Is there a uniform?

Becky: You get to sport the red t-shirt or hoodie with the University logo on it that you might have seen if you attended an open day. So not only is the work fun but you also get to be comfy whilst you’re doing it.

What do you like the most about being a student ambassador?

Karen: Oh, hands down, my favourite part is getting to chat with students and parents during open days. It's like stepping back into that special time in my life and reliving the excitement all over again! I absolutely love being part of someone else's story, offering guidance, and sharing information they might not know about. It's a rewarding feeling to help them navigate through the university journey and make their dreams come true. Being a student ambassador lets me connect with others and be a small part of their amazing adventure, and that's something truly special to me.

Olivia:  I myself worked a variety of part-time jobs during my undergraduate degree – however, I can honestly say that being a Student Ambassador with the University of Edinburgh is the best part-time job that I have had! It is appropriately designed to fit around your studies and commitments, meaning that you can choose when you work. However, this also means that you can choose what kind of shifts to work on, based on your interests as well as your schedule.

Of course, it is also a great opportunity to earn some extra money as a student, particularly in the midst of the current cost of living crisis. But beyond that, it is a wonderful experience to be able to add to a CV. I myself feel vastly more confident in communicating with others, and I also know that I have gained great experience in being a very flexible worker, in being able to turn my hand to different roles at the drop of a hat.