Student Ambassadors Thrive at Parkland College
Student Ambassadors have been part of Parkland’s campus culture for many years
Whether in the Champaign-Urbana area or on campus, Parkland College Student Ambassadors continue to thrive, serving a vital role for the college and District 505.
Each academic year, the diverse, open-minded group work with the Parkland Admissions team to provide a welcoming environment to campus visitors at numerous college events. These include the Regional College Fair, open houses, Commencement and more.
In addition to campus events, Student Ambassadors are required to complete at least 10 hours of community service each semester. Past volunteer placements include the Crisis Nursery, local car shows, and senior citizen facilities, among others.
“The Student Ambassador program has allowed me to make connections and friendships with a wonderful group of people,” says Northbrook, Ill. native Bryce Balonick, a current Student Ambassador studying occupational therapy. “Meeting the wonderful folks in the Admissions Office has been a pleasure, as well as community members whom I would not have been able to interact with had I not been an ambassador.”
Tolono, Ill. native Madysen York decided to join the Student Ambassador program because she wanted to enhance her communication skills with others. “The program has allowed me to express myself in order to connect with peers,” says York, who studies kinesiology. “I feel a stronger sense of community within Parkland.”
Student Ambassadors have been part of Parkland’s campus culture for many years. Eric Ray has served as the group’s advisor since Fall 2023.
“Once I took over, I committed to making the group the best it can be for our students,” Ray says. “It’s a yearly commitment to develop their skillsets in organization, networking, leadership, communication, and confidence-building.”
Students interested in becoming a Student Ambassador must have at least a 3.0 GPA in college or in high school if starting as a freshman in college. They must also be registered for at least six credit hours. Ambassadors are eligible for four scholarships each semester, each $250. Ambassadors vote on which of them will be awarded these scholarships.
Any currently registered Parkland students or incoming freshmen interested in becoming an ambassador for the 2025–26 academic year can apply online at parkland.edu/studentambassador.
For more information, contact Eric Ray at eray@parkland.edu or 217/351-2571.