Student Ambassadors
Meet the Spring 2021 Student Ambassadors
Meet your Spring 2021 Student Ambassadors. The role of these student leaders is to be the voice to Westcliff University; helping build and strengthen the campus community. The ambassadors will represent the university at various events such as social events, outreach events, sports functions, conduct campus tours and sessions for open dialogue.
The ambassadors provide a conduit between the department faculty and staff to communicate directly with students. We encourage current and future students to connect with our ambassadors as it is one of the best ways to learn about Westcliff University and their experiences. Share your interests, suggestions, and ideas with them at studentambassadors@westcliff.edu so that Westcliff University can best serve your needs as life-long learners, athletes, and entrepreneurs.
Name: Bianca Nelson
Program of Study: Bachelor of Business Administration
Country of Origin: United States of America
Fun Fact: I have been playing basketball since I was 4. In my freshman year of high school, I played on the freshman, JV, Varsity, and a travel ball team.
Why Westcliff: Westcliff University offered me an opportunity to not only further my education but to continue my athletic journey.
Name: Ekaterina Shcherbakova
Program of Study: Doctor of Business Administration
Country of Origin: Russia
Fun Fact: I love learning languages. I speak English, Russian, Spanish, and German, and Python.
Why Westcliff: I decided to pursue a DBA degree that would allow me to continue conducting research and at the same time would help to deepen my knowledge of business operations and management practices.
Name: Firas Marrash
Program of Study: Master of Business Administration
Country of Origin: Lebanon
Fun Fact: I am a morning person. I’m outgoing and always open to new experiences. I love going to the beach, I cook a lot and like to try new recipes, and I love classic cars.
Why Westcliff: I found the specialized affordable Master’s program I was looking for, in a location that is very convenient for me.
Name: Moji Bamidele-Sadiq
Program of Study: Doctor of Business Administration
Country of Origin: Nigeria
Fun Fact: I’m working on starting my non-profit organization to help poor widows in Nigeria.
Why Westcliff: Opportunity for global exposure in a diverse and inclusive academic environment.
Name: Akshay Dehadray
Program of Study: Doctor of Business Administration
Country of Origin: India
Fun Fact: I love to make new connections. In my free time, I love to work out (hypertrophy and strength template being my favorites) and cook healthy vegetarian recipes
Why Westcliff: I wanted to pursue a DBA after MBA, but I also wanted to work full time while doing so. Westcliff University was the only university that provided that option to me.
Name: Razann Kotarche
Program of Study: Bachelor of Arts in Education
Country of Origin: United States of America
Fun Fact: I can play 6 instruments: Violin, clarinet, piano, cello, and french horn. I also can read treble, bass, and alto clef.
Why Westcliff: I chose Westcliff because of the small campus environment. I enjoy the small campus environment because I can talk to the professors and ask questions freely in class, unlike a giant class. I also chose Westcliff to continue my Water polo and Swim career while continuing my education.
Name: Deepa Diddee
Program of Study: Doctor of Business Administration
Country of Origin: India
Fun Fact: I love Muay Thai, and I have bruises and aching muscles to prove it. A couple of years back, I was introduced to Muay Thai (Thai Boxing) through a health and fitness program at my company. The first few weeks of the training was filled with injuries, bruises and muscle strains but that did not stop me from my training. I was more determined and excited; it was one of the coolest sports/martial arts that makes you empowered and gives the kick to feel alive.
Why Westcliff: Westcliff University has been at the forefront in providing quality education but more importantly in equipping students with skills, experience, and confidence necessary for personal and professional development. The invaluable training in employable skills, flexible learning options, and the diversity, inclusion and belonging it fosters among the students help connect, network, and broaden the awareness and empathy are immensely useful in the modern world. It opens a world of opportunity for students to begin, grow and be the next generation leaders and contributors to the society. I find Westcliff to be a natural choice for these reasons.
Ambassadors rotate every semester. If you are interested in applying to becoming a student ambassador next semester, learn more about the program and how to apply:
Student Ambassadors Program
The Student Ambassador Program is a leadership program that offers Westcliff University students an opportunity to represent and promote Westcliff to prospective students, their families, and other guests. Student Ambassadors will be able to help educate visitors about the campus life, history, traditions, and achievements of the university. Ambassadors are to showcase Westcliff University in supporting the Student Affairs department, conducting campus tours, supporting outreach and recruitment events, New Student Orientation, social events, and athletic events.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Represent the university at social events and sports functions both on and off-campus
- Conduct campus tours for new students and guests, serve as VIP handlers, participate as special event facilitators
- Be a spokesperson to represent Westcliff University when potential students request for testimonials/referrals
- Support recruitment at community college and high school outreach events
- Attend regularly scheduled Student Ambassador meetings and the required trainings once per month
- Attend New Student Orientation and support new students, staff, and faculty
- Help welcome new students to Westcliff University
- Participate in Westcliff University media days
Student Ambassador Eligibility Criteria
- Must have successfully completed at least six (6) units at Westcliff University prior to applying
- Must be enrolled in and successfully complete six (6) units per semester at WU
- Must have and maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA for Undergraduate and 3.0 GPA for Graduate at WU while in the program
- Must be a student in good standing and not on Academic Warning, Probation, or Disciplinary Probation
- Must commit to working a full academic year
Student Ambassador Time Commitments
- Must work a minimum of 20 hours per semester
- Must be available to attend all training sessions throughout the semester
- Must commit to working a full academic year beginning Fall through Spring and Summer
Student Ambassador desired Skills/Characteristics
- Enthusiasm to positively represent Westcliff University
- Knowledge of Westcliff University programs and services
- Excellent communication skills in one-on-one and group setting
- Organizational and time management skills
- Dependable, outgoing, and enthusiastic
- Ability to work with diverse groups
- Possess the ability to listen, problem-solve, and react quickly
Compensation
Student Ambassadors are paid a stipend at the end of each semester that they are in the program. Ambassadors will earn $250 per semester.
Instructions for Applying
Applications are open year-round. Recruitment for Student Ambassadors takes place every summer. Students must be available to commit to a full academic year beginning in the summer and through the fall and spring. To be considered, students must submit an application.
The application process consists of the following:
- Completed Student Ambassador application
- Available for an interview
- A letter of recommendation from faculty or staff member at Westcliff
- Consideration of your availability and work plan