Students in the Dairy Science Ambassador Program create a direct connection between future Hokies and the Department of Dairy Science.

By Amy Loeffler

Ambassadors are generally known for maintaining communication and performing ceremonial duties.

Students who work as dairy science ambassadors play similarly important roles in promoting the Department of Dairy Science and recruiting new students to the department by being engaging diplomats.

“We’re excited to have these students representing us at alumni events and helping us with recruiting,” said Katharine Knowlton, the Col. Horace E. Alphin Professor of Dairy Science.

Ambassadors serve as department representatives and perform a variety of duties as the face of dairy science. Activities include attending departmental events, following up with future students who might have questions after a campus visit, and taking visitors on tours of the new Dairy Science Complex-Kentland Farm. By serving as point persons, ambassadors also gain valuable leadership and professional networking skills.

Some students who participate in the program come from dairy farms and are dairy science majors, but student majors vary. All of the students have one thing in common however — their enthusiasm for the department.

“Our undergraduates have always been our department’s greatest asset, and that’s as true today as ever. There is no better way to attract the best and brightest students to Virginia Tech than to have current students talk to recruits directly about their experiences, the opportunities they’ve had, and the reasons they chose dairy science,” Knowlton said.