I鈥檓 Maheen, a PhD student in Civil Engineering and a Research and Teaching Assistant in the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geomatics Engineering. Originally from Pakistan, I began my journey as an international student with the support of the International Friends Program, which I joined as a mentee in Spring 2025. I learned firsthand to navigate the challenges of adjusting to a new country, finding campus resources, and dealing with homesickness. As a Global Ambassador, I hope to help students feel welcomed, informed, and connected while encouraging cultural exchange and building a stronger international student community at 吃瓜网 Atlantic. Outside of academics, I enjoy learning about different cultures, watching content from around the world, and exploring new experiences that help me better understand people and their perspectives.
Participate in interviews, outreach initiatives, focus groups, and media projects
Assist new international students with orientation tasks.
Support programming, events,鈥痑nd initiatives for prospective & current international students.
Work with other ambassadors on projects to enhance the visibility and contributions of the international students at FAU.
Promote and participate in events sponsored by the FAU Center for Global Engagement.
Provide information about campus life, answer questions, and share your FAU experiences.
Must be self-motivated and have strong interpersonal skills, especially when communicating with people from different backgrounds.
Must have a strong desire to help international students.
Must be able to work effectively with others towards a shared goal.
Time Commitment:
Must commit to the position for one academic year (a minimum of one semester can be accepted if you graduate next semester).
Must attend mandatory training and monthly meetings.
Dedicate 3-5 hours per week
The duration of the Ambassador position for the 2026-2027 academic year is May 2026 鈥� April 30, 2027.
Participate in campus events and gain international education experiences at FAU.
Add meaningful volunteer and leadership experience to your resume and earn service learning/volunteer hours.
Network with other FAU students, faculty, staff, and alumni.
Receive an FAU Global Ambassador certificate of participation.
Earn a scholarship of $1,000 per semester (Summer, Fall, and Spring).
Along with this application, we require one letter of recommendation and your resume. The letter should be addressed to this Global Ambassador Program application from someone who knows you in an educational or professional capacity (not from family or friends)
Ambassadors are selected based on their application and interview process.
The selected three Global Student Ambassadors will be announced by the end of May 2026.
The deadline for all applications is April 5, 2026. Late or incomplete applications will NOT be accepted.
Meet Our Global Ambassadors
Maheen Daud
Gideon Chege
I鈥檓 Gideon, a Master's student in Civil Engineering in the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering. My academic interests focus on flood modeling, water resources, and engineering design.聽 Originally from Kenya, I bring a global perspective shaped by my background, experiences, and journey as an international student at 吃瓜网 Atlantic. As a Global Ambassador, I am passionate about global collaboration, cultural exchange, and helping students feel supported and empowered to make the most of the many opportunities and resources available to them. Outside of academics, I enjoy playing video games and playing/watching soccer.
Yamilka Acosta
I鈥檓 Yamilka, originally from the Dominican Republic and currently pursuing a Bachelor鈥檚 degree in Exercise Science and Health Promotion. I am passionate about fitness, sports, education, and promoting a healthy lifestyle. My goal is to become a Physical Therapist and help people improve their health and recovery. As a Global Ambassador, I enjoy connecting with people from different cultures and creating a welcoming environment for international students. Having lived in Singapore for several years, I developed a strong appreciation for diversity and global experiences. I love meeting new people and building meaningful connections within the university community.
KEY BENEFITS
Gain leadership, mentoring, teamwork, and cross-cultural skills plus a scholarship of $1,000 per semester!
Open to all students who have participated in the International Friends Mentorship for at least one semester as a Peer Mentor.