Beyond the Prospectus: OW University Ambassador Scheme 2024

Navigating the university application process can be a daunting task, from deciding which subject to take to exploring the possibility of a gap year. While prospectuses, open days and online research can provide valuable information, speaking with someone who has lived it can provide a comprehensive insight – which is why we created the OW University Ambassador Scheme!

In June 2024, we launched the first OW University Ambassador Scheme to support current Sixth Form students as they explore university options and navigate their next steps after College. We had a fantastic uptake, with 24 pupils and 24 OWs signing up to take part.

What is the OW University Ambassador Scheme?

The OW University Ambassador scheme is a mentoring programme designed to match current pupils with alumni (our OW Ambassadors) who are currently studying at some of our most popular university destinations. The scheme aims to help pupils get first-hand insight into university life, different degree options, and what to expect both academically and socially. We matched our pupils with Ambassadors studying at one of the universities and/or subjects they are interested in doing. Through the scheme, pupils have the chance to:

Explore different degree options beyond what they might have initially considered

Gain insights into specific universities and courses from someone living it

Ask honest questions about everything from study tips to social life

This year, the scheme ran from June to December 2024, with pupils and mentors regularly chatting throughout this period. Conversations initially started over Wellington Connect Global, and over time, mentors and mentees organised Zoom calls – with one mentor even showing her mentee around her university!

The scheme is also beneficial to mentors – it’s a rewarding opportunity to give back, reflect on their own journey, and stay connected with the College community.

Scheme Feedback

“It was great to hear how life was at Wellington, and it was nice to reassure them that although they are feeling super stressed, that it will all work out!” – OW Ambassador

“I think it is a good opportunity to support students and to be another voice rather than just another teacher, which is sometimes less approachable! I enjoyed being there to answer questions and offering check ups” – OW Ambassador

“My mentor gave in-depth advice on many things I was considering. They particularly helped me with gap years, and even other universities I was considering by actively reaching out to people they knew and asking them about those universities for me. ” U6 Pupil

We are so grateful to our Ambassadors for participating in this scheme and for giving their time to support current students. Thank you to the pupils who participated, and to everyone who has supported this scheme.

Interested in Getting Involved?

If you are a current pupil or an OW at university who is keen to share your experience, we would love to hear from you! We will be expanding the next cohort to include all universities, and we particularly welcome applications from STEM subjects, international universities, OWs who have taken gap years and OWs who are degree apprentices.

If you would be interested in volunteering as an ambassador or are a current pupil who would like to participate in the next cohort, please email community@wellingtoncollege.org.uk