Global Learning Ambassadors
Each year, a new cohort of Global Learning Ambassadors joins UCalgary International! Ambassadors are current students with diverse international experiences who are passionate about sharing global learning opportunities with the UCalgary community.
The Ambassadors team takes on a variety of roles during the fall & winter semesters, such as:
- Providing peer advising and directing students to information about global learning programs, application processes, eligibility, funding, and more
- Managing the front desk of UCalgary International to assist students visiting the office
- Promoting global learning opportunities on social media @UCalgaryAbroad, and in-person with print materials & classroom presentations
- Participating in a training program to develop their cultural competency skills and cross-cultural communication & leadership skills
- Sharing their own international experiences with other interested students and the broader
UCalgary community
Drop-in Advising
Come speak with a Global Learning Ambassador about your international opportunities! Ambassadors are UCalgary students who are trained to answer general questions about programs, application processes, etc. Many of them have studied abroad in the past and/or are international students themselves, so they are a great resource to learn about the student experience abroad.
2024-2025 Ambassadors
Degree: International Relations
“During my time in Russia, I visited St. Petersburg, a city filled with history. It allowed me to immerse myself in the history of the Russian Empire. I saw the Alexander and Catherine Palaces, where the tour guides were passionate about their storytelling. I was able to see the spot where the great poet Alexander Pushkin was killed during his duel, and I also visited the grave of the famous composer Tchaikovsky. All of this was greatly fascinating to me. St. Petersburg is also known as Russia’s capital of culture, so I would definitely like to go back and explore it more.”
Aisha hasn’t done a UCalgary Global Learning program yet, but has lots of travel experience!
Degree: Education and Second Languages
Some of my favourite moments happened while studying abroad. Especially unexpectedly, for example at local festivals or celebrations. The highlight of my Group Study in Spain is going up in a very fast Ferris Wheel overlooking the older part of Santiago de Compostela with friends.
Amanda attended the Spanish Language & Culture Group Study Program!
Degree: Environmental Science
"One of the things I have learned studying abroad is that there is a whole other world out there - one that is full of adventures, history and culture. My favourite memory of Copenhagen was being able to overcome my fear of biking in a busy street with a sea full of bikers during rush hour and hanging out with friends at the harbour, sharing stories until sundown."
Anthony did an exchange program at the University of Copenhagen!
Degree: Law & Society and Sociology
“I've had the pleasure to experience so many unforgettable moments during my time abroad. One that stands out is getting to know a Taiwanese friend who brought me to Taiwan to stay with her after the semester ended at NUS (Singapore). Together, we explored Taipei's night markets, ate some of the most delicious food I've ever had, and saw some of the most impressive skylines on earth. She gave me an insight into life beyond Canada. Her warmth and the beauty of Taiwan left a lasting impression on me. Being abroad has unlocked my desire to continue to learn and appreciate the diversity and richness of cultures all around the planet.”
Billy did an exchange program at the National University of Singapore!
Degree: Natural Science (Geology & Biology)
“Picture this, you’re in the middle of class in the Bahamas, a.k.a. snorkeling, checking out the coral reefs, the way the light beams look cutting through the deep water and the stingrays rippling along below you. How is this even school? Your snorkel buddy is right beside you and you take turns pointing at all the amazing creatures you see. Then, you notice a couple of large barracudas deep down near the bottom, no need to panic they are far away. Oh but no, right then they look up and see you and start swimming up towards you, sharp pointy teeth jutting out the sides of their narrow jaws. You get your snorkel buddy’s attention and you both get quite terrified. Holding hands and swimming away while keeping a close eye on them. They are about 20 feet away now and still coming. You start to feel a bit like Marlin and Coral in finding Nemo. You contemplate how you’re going to defend yourself from these razor torpedos, when finally by some miracle they turn around and start descending back to the deep. Later, among the whole group you tell your professor about your narrow escape from sure death. To which he teaches you a valuable lesson; when barracudas swim towards you, you swim right at them and they will retreat. Great après knowledge to put in your pocket, and that snorkel buddy, well our brush with Mr. & Mrs. Huge teeth solidified our friendship for life.”
Candice attended the Bahamas Tropical Geology Group Study Program and the Hawai’i Volcanism Group Study Program!
Degree: Neuroscience and Education
“I loved my solo trip to the Forbidden City in Beijing – a dream since childhood. The best part was arriving very early in the morning feeling like I had the entire place to myself, and indulging in traditional pastries at the café within the palace's walls. Amid the solitude, I found an unexpected sense of tranquillity. The time spent alone allowed me to grow comfortable with my own company and embrace my true self.”
Cecilia went on exchange to Tsinghua University and the National University of Singapore!
Degree: Communication and Media Studies
“The chance to thoroughly immerse myself in another culture and discover more about its customs, history, and language(s) was a highlight of my global learning experience. It gave me the chance to speak to people and learn about their points of view, which cultivated in me an appreciation for different cultures and empathy that I still possess today.”
Christina attended an Anthropology Group Study Program in Japan!
Degree: Global Development Studies
“Visiting Japan was one of my best decisions. Navigating the unfamiliar culture was challenging, but I found comfort in the discomfort of adapting. Exploring with like-minded people, experiencing onsens, Ainu culture, and heritage sites made the journey unforgettable. I'm now eager for more adventures and growth!”
David attended an Anthropology Group Study Program in Japan!
Degree: Neuroscience
“My favourite memories are travelling on the weekends and during the three week mid-semester break around the UK and to mainland Europe!”
Doris went on exchange to the University of Manchester!
Degree: Computer Science
“Reverse culture shocks are always my favourite Global Learning memories. Coming back from Japan, I have forgotten how not everywhere else is it sharply punctual, especially in public transit services. Coming back from Germany, I keep forgetting that not everywhere else is a 35-minute walk considered a piece of cake by everyone. The best thing is, every time you come back home from living abroad, it is all up-to-you whether or not to keep the habits you've learned there; and most of the time, these habits are game-changing for your lifestyle. So, have a ponder.”
Gabriel attended the Senshu Summer Exchange program in Japan, and also did a DAAD research internship in Germany!
Degree: International Relations & Political Science
“My favorite aspect of global learning is the meaningful encounters I have with people from diverse backgrounds. I absolutely love listening to their stories, learning about their cultures, and sharing my own experiences. During my online exchange with Korea University, I gained a deeper understanding of the Korean language and culture, which has inspired me to travel to Korea someday.”
Guia attended an Online Exchange from Korea University!
Degree: Cellular, Molecular and Microbial Biology
“I spent a semester abroad studying at Waseda University in Tokyo, Japan! My most unforgettable memory was driving around Honshu with some friends I had met by chance, in a rented car, on some dangerously narrow and unkempt mountainous roads. The fear and conversations made this trip oddly meaningful.”
Isabel went on exchange to Waseda University, and also competed in the Global Community Challenge YYC!
Degree: Art History
“I went to Ireland as part of the Group Study Program and it was interesting to interact with locals and learn more about the country's history (yes I am a history major!) The Group Study program enabled me to understand more about how its culture shapes people. I would love to join more group study programs or exchange in the future!”
Jacqueline attended the History of Ireland Group Study Program!
Degree: General Business & Psychology
“One of my favourite memories is meeting people from all over the world while traveling abroad. I made so many new friends and got to explore not just Singapore but also other countries with them. It was amazing to share adventures and see new places together. Along the way, I learned a lot about problem-solving and rolling with the punches. It was a great way to pick up new skills and adapt to whatever came our way.”
Jamie attended the Nanyang Summer Exchange program in Singapore!
Degree: Communication, Media & Film
“The best thing about this experience is getting involved in a different culture while meeting other people. This has broaden my perspective giving me a better understanding of the world. I just love having the opportunity to learn new things everyday through different experiences and stories from others. I've certainly experienced huge personal growth.”
Jetli is an international student currently on exchange at UCalgary, who comes from Universidad de Externado!
Degree: Kinesiology
“One of my favorite memories abroad was seeing a kangaroo for the first time and being very excited. All the friends I was with were from Australia and see them on a regular basis so when they were teasing me about how excited I was. We still talk about that moment.”
Krista went on exchange to the National University of Singapore and the University of South Australia!
Degree: Anthropology
“My favourite memories that I made in Japan were always with the rest of the group, like walking from place to place while joking and making small talk with each other. I will always remember how we all came to that trip with the same passion and energy, and will never forget all of the cultural experiences we went through for the first time together, like wearing kimono!”
Kristina attended the Japanese Language & Culture Group Study Program – this year it’s being offered online!
Degree: Urban Studies
“Travelling across Southeast Asia was the experience of a lifetime! Experiencing so much culture and getting to share in so many experiences with a huge variety of people was an absolute joy.”
Lana attended the Southeast Asia Environmental & Urban Sustainability Group Study Program!
Degree: Biological Sciences
“Seeing all the tropical vegetation and animals was one of the highlights of my trip to Panama. There was always something new to discover, whether it was the unusual Socratea trees, the poison dart frogs, the howler monkeys, or plenty of other flora and fauna! They were unlike anything I had ever seen in Calgary, and I would love to return someday to continue my exploration!”
Lexi attended the Panama Primatology Group Study Program!
Degree: Communication and Media Studies
“My favourite memories studying in Australia were taking road trips along the east coast! Camping under stars, hiking up mountains, and swimming in the ocean allowed me to experience the natural wonders of Australia.”
Lidia went on exchange to the University of Wollongong!
Degree: Communication and Media Studies
“Living in Amsterdam for a semester abroad was incredible as someone who loves art and museums. I got a card that gave me access to basically all the big museums in the Netherlands so I made it my mission to go to at least one museum a week! I think I went to the Van Gogh Museum at least 5 times.”
Mariana went on exchange to the University of Amsterdam!
Degree: Biomedical Engineering
“The highlights of my abroad experience in Liverpool were the people that I became close to during my time there, and the ability to spontaneously travel throughout the UK and Europe. My appreciation for my peers extended beyond our time together, as I was deeply impacted by their absence for the final weeks of my program after which many of my closest friends had already left Liverpool. As a result, I had the opportunity to experience solo travel, exploring more of England and making a trip over to Belgium, and I learned a lot about myself in the process.”
Markus attended the Liverpool Summer Research Program!
Degree: Neuroscience (Masters)
“My favourite Global Learning memory from my Group Study Program was exploring the city of Sulmona in Abruzzo, Italy and becoming more comfortable in a new environment. This experience helped me step out of my comfort zone, become more independent, and learn to navigate cross-cultural communication!”
Martina attended the Religious Studies in Italy Group Study Program!
Degree: Linguistics & Language
“My favorite experience abroad was getting to know so many people from all around the world, and hearing stories about their different experiences and perspectives.”
Megan went on exchange at Senshu University in Japan!
Degree: Anthropology
“My favourite memory of Panama Primatology was the thrill of pursuing the howler monkeys in the jungle while we collected data. The experience teaches patience because sometimes the monkeys disappear behind the dense foliage, or you lose track of the troop. Coming out of your comfort zone is important in order to immerse yourself in the adventure.”
Neilius attended the Maya Archaeology Group Study Program and Panama Primatology Group Study Program!
Degree: International Relations
“My favourite memory has to do with the friends I made throughout my exchange. They all got together behind my back and planned me a surprise birthday party! It made me appreciate all of the friendships I had made so far, and helped me feel more at home :) ”
Nicole went on exchange to Sciences Po Aix in France!
Degree: Finance and Economics
“My favourite memories from my exchange involved fully embracing Amsterdam’s weather! Sunny days (though limited in supply) were reserved for picnics in the park and walks through the city; meanwhile, rainy days made for the best backdrop for exploring one of the many museums! Through this all, I learned that you don’t need to always follow a strict plan – allow yourself to enjoy the days as they come, even if you have to adjust your calendar to enjoy the sun.”
Nim went on exchange to the University of Amsterdam!
Degree: Exercise & Health Physiology
“My favourite memory studying in Australia was doing sunrise yoga every morning with all my friends and getting to dip in the ocean afterwards. I learned that I can always find my group of people despite all being from different places in the world. I have made lifelong friendships from my experience abroad!”
Paige went on exchange to Flinders University!
Degree: Biological Sciences (Genetics)
“My time spent studying abroad in Japan was absolutely incredible. One of the greatest parts about my trip was just the moments of unwinding with other students during the evening. Whether it be a unique Izakaya or the local bar, being able to try delicious foreign foods and drinks with both local and international friends made great memories out of the simplest of times.”
Parker went on exchange to Kansai Gaidai University!
Degree: Computer Science
“My international experiences taught me how to thrive in an unfamiliar environment, building plenty of new friendships and learning how to appreciate quiet moments while living alone. Living abroad, I was surprised to learn how much of our life in Calgary is defined by our culture, and how similar and different our experiences are from students elsewhere who take their own cultures for granted. Global Learning allowed me a unique opportunity to augment and deepen my perspectives on life and study.”
Ryan went on exchange to the University of Auckland in New Zealand!
Degree: Cellular, Molecular & Microbial Biology
“One of my highlights during my group study experience was teaching English to a Japanese 5th-grade class. It was a unique experience that allowed me to apply my Japanese language skills, and share Canadian culture with the class. It was very fun to teach alongside people in the group study. During this time, I learned that Japan had many of its social virtues integrated into its education system which explains why Japan is such a respectful country. Overall, participating in the group study pushed me out of my comfort zone, learned a lot about Japanese society, and allowed me to make new friendships with Japanese students and other UofC students!”
Ryland attended the Japanese Language & Culture Group Study Program – this year it’s being offered online!
Degree: Law & Society
“Some of my most cherished memories from studying abroad include movie nights with my flatmates, exploring vibrant markets in Manchester, and traveling around Europe and North Africa, where everything was so accessible and affordable. I also gained valuable life skills like cooking and doing laundry, while learning to appreciate different cultures and stepping out of my comfort zone.”
Sara went on exchange to the University of Manchester!
Degree: Communication and Media Studies
“I love the experience of planning a trip! Making the most of my time by designing an intensive travel plan! And the best part is being challenged to learn new things about a different culture! It's so rewarding to be comfortable and independent in a place that isn't 'home'.”
Serene hasn’t done a UCalgary Global Learning program yet, but has lots of travel experience!
Degree: Communication & Media Studies
“My favorite memory from a Global Learning Program was landing in Tokyo for the first time with my newfound friends! I still remember all of the excitement that I had felt when I had first stepped foot in Japan!!”
Shani attended the Japanese Language & Culture Group Study Program – this year it’s being offered online!
Being an Ambassador is a great way to develop your leadership qualities and work on skills such as public speaking & community building. It also connects you with like-minded students and helps you build your international network! Your volunteer hours will be tracked, and can be used as professional experience or a reference on your resume.
Applications for the 2025-2026 Ambassadors Team are expected to open in early summer 2025. See below for more info about the positions available and what to expect if you apply.
Global Learning Ambassadors play a valuable role in supporting student advising, Global Learning promotions & events, and special projects throughout the year. They commit 2-4 volunteer hours per week (minimum 20 hours per semester).
Who is eligible to be an Ambassador?
- Must be a current UCalgary student in good academic standing
- Both degree-seeking students and non-degree-seeking students (e.g. exchange or visiting students attending UCalgary) are welcome to apply
- Prior international experience is a benefit; students who have participated in a UCalgary global learning program (travel-based or online) may be given priority
Please read the Ambassador job description (PDF) before you apply. This description has details such as expectations of the role, benefits/learning outcomes, and the time commitment, including all scheduled meetings for the year which you are expected to attend.
Ambassador Team Leads take on extra responsibilities and leadership roles, both among the Ambassadors team and the broader UCalgary International office. They commit on average 10 volunteer hours per week (130 hours per semester) and will receive an honorarium each semester. While two or three Team Leads are selected and work collaboratively throughout the year, each one will be given a specific portfolio and expected to take initiative on certain projects.
Who is eligible to be a Team Lead?
- Must be a UCalgary degree-seeking student in good academic standing
- Prior international experience is a benefit; students who have participated in a UCalgary global learning program (travel-based or online) may be given priority
- Returning applicants (e.g. applicants who were Ambassadors in a previous year) may be given priority
Please read the Team Lead job description (PDF) before you apply. This description has details such as expectations of the role, benefits/learning outcomes, and the time commitment, including all scheduled meetings for the year which you are expected to attend.