OW Uni Ambassador Scheme: Supporting Pupils Through the University Journey

Choosing what to study, deciding where to apply, or considering a gap year can make the university application process feel overwhelming. While prospectuses, open days and online research are all valuable resources, nothing quite compares to hearing directly from someone who has already been through the experience. That’s exactly why we created the OW University Ambassador Scheme!

Launched in June 2024, the scheme connects current Sixth Form students with OWs studying at universities around the world, giving pupils the opportunity to ask questions, gain honest advice and learn about university life from those who are living it.

Following the success of the inaugural programme, we welcomed our second cohort in September 2025. The response was fantastic, with 30 OWs volunteering as ambassadors and representing a wide range of universities and degree courses across the globe, from Economics at Cambridge to Student Athletes in the USA.

What is the OW University Ambassador Scheme?

The OW University Ambassador Scheme is designed to give current pupils direct access to alumni who are currently studying at university. By sharing their experiences, ambassadors help students build a clearer picture of university life, explore different degree options and better understand what to expect both academically and socially.

After listening to feedback from our first cohort, we expanded the scheme to include ambassadors from universities worldwide. We also introduced a more flexible, light-touch approach. Instead of assigning pupils to a single mentor, students were able to contact any ambassador whenever questions arose throughout the university admissions and application process.

Through the scheme, pupils were able to:

• Explore degree subjects they may not have previously considered.
• Gain first-hand insight into specific universities and courses.
• Ask honest questions about applications, studying, student life, accommodation and everything in between.

Throughout the 2025–26 academic year, conversations began on Wellington Connect Global, allowing pupils to connect easily with ambassadors. As discussions developed, many ambassadors volunteered to continue conversations over Zoom, while one even met a pupil in person for a coffee and chat!

For ambassadors, volunteering provides a rewarding opportunity to give back to the College community, reflect on their own university journey and support the next generation of Wellingtonians.

Feedback from the Scheme

“I really enjoyed seeing the results of my recommendations. I really appreciate those who reached out to me to ask for my advice. It is so nice to be able to share so much about my personal experience, particularly if it can help [Pupil] avoid any complications during their Year Abroad or job application process.”
– OW Ambassador

“What I enjoyed most was the initiative itself. Creating opportunities for current students to connect with alumni is a fantastic idea, as it helps bridge the gap between College, university, and professional life. I would have welcomed the chance to speak with former students when I was at Wellington, so I appreciate the value this scheme can provide.”
– OW Ambassador

“Not only did I speak with pupils via Wellington Connect, a teacher reached out to me about visiting Wellington to speak to students about studying medicine. Unfortunately due to the compulsory teaching I had, I was unable to visit, but it was really great to be offered that opportunity and I would love to come in to speak with students in future!”
– OW Ambassador

We are incredibly grateful to all of our OW Ambassadors for generously giving their time, advice and encouragement to support current students. Thank you also to every pupil who took part and to everyone who has helped make the scheme such a success.

Interested in Getting Involved?

If you are an OW currently at university and would like to share your experiences with future applicants, we’d love to hear from you. As the scheme continues to grow, we are keen to hear from students at universities around the world. We particularly welcome ambassadors studying STEM subjects, attending international universities, undertaking degree apprenticeships or those who have taken a gap year.

If you are interested in volunteering as an ambassador, or if you are a current pupil who would like to get in touch with our ambassadors, please email community@wellingtoncollege.org.uk.