A Study In Student Leadership: Life of a Student Ambassador
By Brooke Foster
Online learning by Tippapatt from Getty Images
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Connections have become a large part of our daily routine. It’s what makes us human. The connections we make throughout life (whether it’s making a post on social media or talking to someone on the bus) help to shape us into who we are. Connections are also one of the best ways to help spread the word. In a day and age where everything is a tap or click away, the rules of communication are constantly changing. It can be difficult to know where to start -- especially when you have something to say. Sometimes all you need is a friendly face to help you out.
In the summer of 2020, NorthStar Academy introduced a new opportunity for students to get involved in leadership. This program, otherwise known as the Student Ambassadors Program (or SAP), was created to help students connect with prospective families considering joining NSA. The program is made up of two separate groups: the Social Media and Public Relations (PR) teams. What is it that these groups do? The Public Relations team works on connecting with incoming students, assisting them when it comes to learning the ins-and-outs of the various platforms used by NorthStar Academy. The Ambassador program’s main method of outreach is through their Social Media team. As their title suggests, through the use of social media and clever communication, members of the Social Media team bring attention to the unique and diverse learning experiences at NorthStar Academy.
The current members of the Student Ambassador Program
We recently sat down with some of the Student Ambassadors, asking them about their experience with the program. When asked about why they applied for the Student Ambassador Program, the answer was rather unanimous: to help families learn about the full NorthStar Academy experience. Sam Stevens, a member of the Public Relation team, summed up the experience perfectly: “I enjoy interacting with people and getting to know them, and being able to use my skill set to promote the school seemed like an awesome opportunity. Also, anything I can do to help a new student have a smooth transition is a valuable investment of time.”
Fellow Public Relations team member, Amazone Herbreteau echoed this statement, sharing how she wants to help students who may have been in a similar situation to her first year. “I remember having many questions before choosing NSA and would love to help students understand what NSA is all about and all the benefits to being a homeschooler. It can seem scary but being able to have another student's opinion before signing up could really help make the transition smoother.”
While the Student Ambassador Program focuses mainly on teaching prospective families about the NorthStar experience, the ambassadors found they were also learning more along the way. Brooke Noska, a member of the Social Media team, says her favorite part about the program is “being able to help out at NSA! I have learned so much about serving others, and I also love being able to help with social media promotions.” Sam remarks how being an Ambassador allowed him to strengthen his connection with classmates: “Being an ambassador gives me an excuse to drop in on Teams and interact with several different parts of the student body.”
Finally, we couldn’t help but ask the Student Ambassadors what words of advice they had for prospective NorthStar Academy families. Just what is it should students expect when they start their first day at an online virtual academy?
Chana, a member of the Public Relations team, brought attention to the people of NSA. “As our motto says, we are made up of real people. Parents- know that the teachers don't just look at your child's grade or time of submission. They see them as a real person, made in the image of God, who they get to help grow. Students, know that you will be accepted here. No matter what your background, insecurities, or even religious beliefs, at NorthStar, you will find friends who can relate to you, encourage you, and learn from your differences.”
Another member of the Social Media team said they would tell prospective students to keep in mind how NSA is a unique experience. “NSA is not your typical online school. I’ve attended other online schools, which had an okay curriculum and okay teachers. NorthStar goes above and beyond in every category!”
Brooke Foster is going into her third year with NorthStar Academy. She is currently serving as Student Council President for the 20-21 school year. In her free time, Brooke enjoys reading, writing, singing, and listening to the latest Broadway soundtracks. In the future, Brooke hopes to be able to use her skills to give a voice to those in need.