Animal Science appoints student ambassadors

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln animal science department appointed two new student ambassadors for the 2012-2013 academic year.

After in-depth interviews with department faculty and senior ambassadors, two students were selected out of a pool of four applicants:

– Ryan Grafel of Hastings, a senior animal science major

– Dustin Renken of Bertrand, a junior animal science major

The two new ambassadors will serve alongside current second-year ambassadors:

– Alec Ibach of Sumner, a junior agricultural economics and animal science major

– Melisa McDonald of Lincoln, a senior animal science major

The ambassadors will interact with prospective animal science students by visiting high schools and attending various UNL admissions events. In addition to attending and supporting university events, each ambassador also will take on the responsibility of planning one recruitment activity per year.

One example is the animal science overnight, which is a two-day event where juniors and seniors in high school visit UNL's East Campus and stay the night in dorms. Over the course of two days, these high school students get an overview of the animal science department, participate in mock labs, get their questions answered and participate in fun activities such as bowling in the Nebraska East Union.

"It's a good opportunity for them to get to East Campus and actually see what life is like here in the department and as a college student," said Alli Raymond, admissions coordinator for the animal science department. "Through planning and participating in these activities, the student ambassadors benefit not only the university, but themselves as well."

The Animal Science Student Ambassador program, started in 1999, selects two animal science majors as ambassadors to promote the animal science program each year. Students receive a $2,000 scholarship ($500 each semester) and serve for two years supporting the animal science department's recruitment efforts.

For more information on the Animal Science Student Ambassador program, visit Ambassador Program, like them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter (@UNL_AniSci) to stay up-to-date on upcoming events and deadlines.