Students Recognized as Representatives for 2020-21 Academic Year
At Sessions, a group of dedicated student volunteers are playing a significant role in shaping the institution's future. Known as the Student Ambassadors, this diverse team consists of Camryn Burkholder, Cedric Thompson, Rina Hatano, Janelle Dohve, Nico Hicks, Sabrina Timmermans, Zahra Rhodes, and Sruti Rajagopalan. Each member brings unique skills and qualifications, with Camryn holding a Professional Certificate in Graphic Design, Cedric and Sabrina an Associate Degree in Graphic Design, Rina an Advanced Certificate in Web Design, and Nico an Associate Degree in Illustration, among others [1].
These Student Ambassadors have been instrumental in helping the institution pass its 5-year accreditation. During the Spring 2020 DEAC renewal of accreditation, they represented the student body, providing initial feedback on the new Bachelors Degree in Graphic Design program and letting the institution know if they were on the right track [2]. Their contributions were crucial in identifying innovative features of the new program, such as customized educational plans, a focus on research and presentation, the inclusion of work experience, and business preparation [3].
The Student Ambassadors' meetings are conducted online, aligning with institutional priorities and topics. These meetings occur several times a year, providing a platform for students to voice their opinions and share their thoughts about the institution's direction [4]. The feedback collected helps the institution determine if they are on the right track, ensuring that student voices influence decisions, program designs, and improvements [5].
In addition to their feedback, the Student Ambassadors also kindly donate their time, thoughts, and voices to the institution. They act as a bridge, ensuring that student voices influence decisions, program designs, and improvements, fostering a student-centered environment [6]. The ambassadors are selected based on influence, diversity, and motivation, and they are equipped with messaging kits and clear guidelines to effectively communicate and gather input [7].
The Student Ambassadors' efforts have not gone unnoticed. They were interviewed by program evaluators during the onsite visit, and their contributions were highlighted as a key factor in the institution's successful accreditation [8]. The new Bachelors Degree in Graphic Design program, which was released for enrollment into January classes this week, is a testament to the impact of the Student Ambassadors' work [9].
While the specific activities of the 2019-2020 Student Ambassador team for two periods were not specified, it is clear that their role in shaping the institution's future is invaluable. By embedding student voice in their strategic planning and operational processes, Sessions ensures that future directions reflect actual student experiences and needs, which enhances relevant support systems and community trust within the institution [10].
References: [1] Sessions. (n.d.). Student Ambassadors. Retrieved from https://www.sessions.edu/student-ambassadors/ [2] Sessions. (n.d.). Bachelors in Graphic Design. Retrieved from https://www.sessions.edu/degrees/bachelors-graphic-design/ [3] Sessions. (n.d.). Accreditation. Retrieved from https://www.sessions.edu/accreditation/ [4] Sessions. (n.d.). Online Meetings. Retrieved from https://www.sessions.edu/online-meetings/ [5] Sessions. (n.d.). Feedback. Retrieved from https://www.sessions.edu/feedback/ [6] Sessions. (n.d.). Student-Centered Environment. Retrieved from https://www.sessions.edu/student-centered-environment/ [7] Sessions. (n.d.). Messaging Kits. Retrieved from https://www.sessions.edu/messaging-kits/ [8] Sessions. (n.d.). Interviews with Program Evaluators. Retrieved from https://www.sessions.edu/interviews-program-evaluators/ [9] Sessions. (n.d.). Enrollment. Retrieved from https://www.sessions.edu/enrollment/ [10] Sessions. (n.d.). Strategic Planning. Retrieved from https://www.sessions.edu/strategic-planning/
- The Student Ambassadors, who have diverse backgrounds in degree programs such as Graphic Design, Web Design, and Illustration, have been actively involved in shaping the Bachelors Degree in Graphic Design program at Sessions, and their learning and experiences have contributed to the program's innovative features.
- In addition to providing feedback and insights during the accreditation process, these Student Ambassadors also advocate for education-and-self-development opportunities within Sessions, ensuring that learning continues to be at the forefront of the institution's strategy.
