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Science Student Ambassadors (SSA)

Who are we?

A student-based Science ambassadorship program that educates the external community about the Faculty of Science at York University.

The Student Ambassadors are passionate about their time at York and are willing to share it with others. As ambassadors, we attend recruitment events like the Ontario University Fair to help educate prospective students on the benefits of attending York, including but not limited to the academic and social services as well as unique opportunities offered by York. We are here to provide parents and students with answers to pressing questions and give them a student’s perspective of life at York University.

The SSA team consists of students from second to fourth year (or higher) from the many degree programs within the Faculty of Science. Our Ambassadors are equipped with more than proficient communication skills and each with their own unique experiences. Combined with their drive to help others, the SSA team makes up the ideal leaders to relay helpful information on behalf of the Faculty of Science to the non-York community.

Meet Our Student Ambassadors

"I became a student ambassador because… my experience at York has been very rewarding and fulfilling, and I want to use my platform as a student ambassador to help other prospective students experience the wonders at York. My transition from High School to University was made effortless through continuous support from upper years and staff, and I would like to share my experiences to help others transition effortlessly as well."

- Aleeza Q

Click here to meet more of our Student Ambassadors

Science student posing against a wall outside.

What are we about?

  • Creating an open environment that facilitates communication between prospective students and York University Science programs
  • Providing information regarding the application process, various academic programs, and support services available at Bethune College and York University
  • Sharing personal experiences with prospective students and advocating the benefits of attending York University

Apply to be an SSA

SSA applications for the 2024-2025 academic year are now open. If you have trouble logging in with your PPY account, please use your PPYusername@yorku.ca instead of @my.yorku.ca. Please contact ssap@yorku.ca if you have any questions.  

FAQs

A wide variety of recruitment events require the help of the SSAs both in-person and online. Some occur once or twice a year, such as the Ontario University Fair and Open Houses, while others occur throughout each term, such as Explore Science and Science Tours.  

No. However, SSAs are required to attend at least one event per semester. Additionally, there is a reward system in place where SSAs earn points based on their participation and the duration of their volunteer work at each event. These points can later be redeemed for rewards; these rewards include Faculty of Science merchandise (such as water bottles and sweatshirts), or even letters of achievement from the Dean's office.

You will receive regular emails throughout the term from the Science Recruiting Coordinator or a Recruitment Team member. They will inform you of upcoming events weeks in advance, providing you with forms or Google Sheets in which you can register as an SSA for that specific event.

You can apply during the recruitment season (beginning in June 2024) by submitting an application, which will be reviewed by the Science Recruiting Coordinator and the Science Recruitment team. Once all applications are reviewed, a set of interviews will be held for applicants before final decisions are made. 

You can improve your communication and public speaking abilities, build connections with peers and faculty at York, develop leadership and responsibility skills, and enjoy your role while significantly aiding York's recruitment efforts. Additionally, there is a reward system for SSAs, where points are awarded based on participation and the time spent volunteering at each event. These points can be redeemed for various rewards, including Faculty of Science merchandise and letters of achievement from the Dean's office. 

There is a training day that new SSAs will be required to attend. This is will take place prior to the start of the Fall term (the Ontario University Fair in September will be a great start to put your skills to use!).