The first thing many girls see when they arrive at Xavier College Preparatory isn’t just a teacher or an administrator–it’s a smiling Student Ambassador waiting to greet them. With a friendly introduction and a tour of the campus, ambassadors set the tone for the entire school.
Xavier’s Shadow Program pairs prospective students with current students who serve as guides and role models. These current students are ambassadors that welcome visitors, show them around campus, and help them experience a day-in-the-life at Xavier.
The program plays a major role during Shadow Days and 8th Grade Day, when visiting eighth graders spend a day on campus. These experiences often influence a girl on whether or not to choose Xavier as her high school.
“It’s extremely important for a student to be able to see Xavier through the eyes of an ambassador,” Jamie Itule said, co-moderator of the Student Ambassadors. “That one day could make or break her decision to choose Xavier.”
Ambassadors are carefully hand-selected to represent the school’s professionalism, warmth and community spirit. They are trained to embody leadership and hospitality.
“They’re really the face of Xavier,” said Wendy Mostoller, who is also co-moderator. “Even before girls arrive at Xavier, the ambassadors reach out and make sure they are greeted and feel taken care of.”
Confidence, adaptability and positivity are among the most important traits for ambassadors. When having this role, being personable and flexible are just as valuable as knowing the school’s history.
Ambassadors are required to pass a test before taking on the role. “They learn about the history of Xavier, the programs and clubs we offer and how to interact with people they’ve never met before,” said Valerie Ahern, a moderator of the Shadow Program.
Before shadows arrive, ambassadors are matched by shared interests such as sports, clubs or even similar previous schools they have both attended. On the day itself, ambassadors walk students to classes, make introductions and sit with them at lunch.
The goal is to make shadows feel comfortable in an unfamiliar setting. For many eighth graders, seeing the school through a student’s perspective makes Xavier less intimidating to approach.
“I’ve had moms tell me their daughters felt accepted and welcomed the moment they walked in,” Ahern said. “The ambassadors make sure each girl feels like Xavier is ready for her.”
At times, ambassadors may be busy with tests or other responsibilities during the shadow days. Even though this may lead to less one-on-one time, this lens still gives insight as to the reality of what school days look like.
There are my students who apply to be in the role of an ambassador and only a handful can be accepted into this program due to grades, behavior and the Ambassador test-score. “It’s a very rigorous process with many competitive girls, and not everyone can be chosen,” Ahern acknowledged.
Ambassadors also represent Xavier outside of the classroom. Even out of school, they share what makes the school special to those who may not be aware.
Being an ambassador helps students build leadership skills. “It gives them confidence because people are looking to them for help,” Mostoller said.
From offering new friendships and connections to guiding future Gators through classes, Student Ambassadors work to make each visit memorable.
