Study Sunshine Coast student ambassadors welcomed

Twelve new volunteer ambassadors from five countries have started their duties in promoting the region’s education benefits as part of the Study Sunshine Coast student ambassador program.

In a meeting with Sunshine Coast councillors this morning (Thursday August 3), the new recruits were presented with an ambassador badge ready for them to get out and about to highlight the advantages of the region as an education destination.

Mayor Mark Jamieson said the Study Sunshine Coast Student ambassadors were a great asset.

“It’s wonderful to have 12 new ambassadors, both international and local students, on board to promote the study opportunities available here on our Sunshine Coast and share their experiences with other students or future students within our region,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“The Study Sunshine Coast initiative was launched in April last year to grow awareness of the study options available here and to highlight the employment and lifestyle opportunities available to domestic and international students.

“International education and training is the second biggest service industry export, contributing $3.25 billion to the Queensland economy and supporting 19,000 jobs, which is why it is targeted as is one of the seven high-value industries in our Regional Economic Development Strategy.”

Deputy Mayor Cr Tim Dwyer said the ambassador program, which was in its second year, promoted the region through student ambassadors attending events and activities and sharing their experiences through blogs, videos and social media.

“It’s wonderful to welcome our new ambassadors to the region and I would like to congratulate them on taking up the challenge of promoting their positive study experiences,” Cr Dwyer said.

“I’m sure they’ll continue the fine work undertaken by the inaugural ambassadors.”

Canadian student Erica Marr said she chose to study on the Sunshine Coast after spending time here on a working holiday visa and couldn’t bring herself to leave.

“I love the study, life, work balance that is offered here on the Sunshine Coast,” Ms Marr said.

“I wanted to study graphic design to compliment my existing business marketing degree and I'm so glad I chose to do it on the Sunshine Coast. I'm loving how hands on and practical TAFE is.

“It’s great to be able to combine the beautiful Sunshine Coast and the easy going Aussie lifestyle with study.

“Being a student ambassador is a great way to get involved and connect with other students and promote how awesome it is to study, live, work, play on the Sunshine Coast.”

This year’s ambassadors are from a range of international destinations including the USA, China, Canada and the Philippines as well as a number of local ambassadors.

Caleb Herman, from Buderim, became an ambassador to show current and future students why the Sunshine Coast is an amazing place to live and study.

“The Sunshine Coast region has so many high quality study options available and some great new facilities, along with the convenience of studying while enjoying the beaches and our natural beauty,” Mr Herman said.

“I’m really enjoying my sport and exercise science studies and I feel that the course, university facilities and opportunities available to me will prepare me well for my goal to become a physiotherapist.

“I think there is a huge benefit of being able to balance study with going to the beach or just being active outside, and as a local, the ability to stay at home and maintain my normal life is really great.

“I would encourage other locals to consider study options close to home.”

Study Sunshine Coast aims to retain local students in the region, but also to grow international student numbers and the associated friend and family visitation to the region.

Social media is a key tool in promoting the program and our region with the Study Sunshine Coast Facebook page now boasting more than 22,000 followers.

For more information about Study Sunshine Coast, visit www.studysunshinecoast.com.au.